How to File a Workers' Compensation Claim

When you are injured on the job, you are usually entitled to receive workers' compensation benefits. With the exception of injuries caused while intoxicated, self-inflicted injuries and injuries suffered while committing a crime, most other workplace injuries will be covered under workers' compensation. It is important to follow proper procedure when filling out your workers' compensation claim to ensure that you receive the benefits you rightfully deserve.

-Notify your employer immediately when you are injured. Your employer is required to provide you with the appropriate paperwork to fill out in a timely manner. If the injury is serious, you may want to seek medical attention first and then notify your employer afterwards. By informing your employer right away, you can prove that the injury happened at work.
-Seek medical attention. If it is an emergency, you will be allowed to go to any doctor. If not, you may need to go to the doctor provided by your employer's insurance. You may also get a second opinion from a doctor of your choice at a later date.

-Fill out your paperwork as soon as possible. The sooner you return your workers' compensation forms to your employer, the sooner you can start receiving your benefits.

-Know your rights. Workers' compensation benefits generally cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and lost wages associated with your injury. It is important to understand what you are entitled to receive so that your employer or his insurance company does not try and take advantage of you.

-Consult an attorney. Often, employers will try to bully you into not filing a claim, or the insurance company will not offer you the benefits you deserve. It is important to have a skilled workers' compensation attorney help you through this process to ensure that your rights are protected.

Workers' compensation is a no-fault system, so you are entitled to collect benefits regardless of who caused the accident. If you are being unfairly denied workers' compensation benefits, the attorneys at Stipe Injury Law can help. Please contact our Oklahoma City workers' compensation attorneys today to schedule a consultation.