If you’ve been injured on the job in Oklahoma, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation, regardless of who was at fault. The system is designed to cover most job-related injuries and illnesses, from sudden accidents to long-term conditions.
Here’s what’s typically covered and why acting quickly can help protect your right to benefits.
Most On-the-Job Injuries Are Covered
Oklahoma workers’ compensation covers a wide range of physical injuries sustained while performing work duties. This includes accidents and conditions that develop over time due to repetitive motion or exposure.
Common work injuries covered by workers’ comp:
- Broken Bones and Fractures: From falls off ladders to accidents with heavy equipment, these are among the most frequently reported workplace injuries.
- Sprains and Strains: Often caused by slips, trips, or overexertion, soft tissue injuries can still result in time away from work and medical care.
- Burns: Whether from chemical exposure, electrical accidents, or hot surfaces, burn injuries are usually covered by workers’ comp.
- Back and Neck Injuries: Lifting heavy objects or repetitive motion can lead to spinal injuries, herniated discs, or chronic pain conditions.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Severe wounds caused by tools, machinery, or broken glass may require medical attention and a prolonged healing time.
These injuries don’t have to be life-threatening to qualify. Even moderate injuries that prevent you from doing your job or require medical attention may be eligible for compensation.
Repetitive Use Injuries Are Also Eligible
Oklahoma also recognizes repetitive stress injuries that develop over time from performing the same motion day after day.
Examples include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Common among office workers, cashiers, and anyone who types or performs repetitive hand movements.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation caused by repeated use of joints, often seen in construction, manufacturing, and assembly line work.
- Chronic Joint Pain or Inflammation: Related to physically demanding jobs that put constant stress on knees, shoulders, or elbows.
These types of injuries are just as valid under workers’ compensation, even though they may be harder to prove without the help of a knowledgeable Oklahoma workers’ compensation lawyer.
Work-Related Illnesses and Mental Health Conditions That May Be Covered
Workers’ compensation in Oklahoma doesn’t just cover physical injuries; it also includes occupational diseases and illnesses caused by the work environment.
Covered conditions may include:
- Hearing Loss: Common in construction, factory, or airport jobs with ongoing loud noise exposure.
- Respiratory Issues or Lung Disease: Caused by prolonged exposure to dust, mold, asbestos, or toxic chemicals.
- Skin Conditions: Resulting from handling certain substances or working in harsh environments.
But not all injuries are visible. Workers’ comp may also cover mental health conditions tied to traumatic workplace events such as a robbery, workplace violence, or a catastrophic accident.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression linked directly to your job duties or a traumatic event may qualify.
No-Fault Doesn’t Mean No Action—Here’s What to Do Next
Oklahoma operates under a no-fault workers’ compensation system, which means it doesn’t matter whether you or your employer caused the injury. As long as it happened in the course of your employment, you should be eligible for benefits that cover:
- Medical treatment
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Lost wages
- Vocational rehabilitation (if needed)
However, claims can still be denied,often due to paperwork errors, missed deadlines, or employers disputing whether the injury was truly work-related. Even honest errors can hurt your case.
In Oklahoma, you typically must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and file a claim within one to two years, depending on the type of injury. Missing these deadlines can jeopardize your right to benefits.
That’s why it’s important to:
- Report your injury to your employer as soon as possible.
- Seek medical care right away.
- Keep all records and follow treatment instructions.
- Contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer.
Get Help From an Oklahoma City Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
At Parrish DeVaughn Injury Lawyers, we understand how stressful it is to deal with a work injury, especially when you’re unsure of your rights. Our team will work diligently to ensure that your injury is taken seriously, your paperwork is handled correctly, and you receive the benefits you deserve.
Contact our Oklahoma City workers’ compensation lawyers today for a free consultation and let us help protect your future.
Your job is to heal. Ours is to fight for you.
