Many accidents may qualify for a workers’ compensation claim, including slip and fall accidents, construction site accidents, delivery accidents, oil field accidents, accidents caused by heavy machinery malfunction, and much more. Virtually all workplace accidents could qualify for workers’ compensation if certain requirements are met.
What is workers’ compensation?
The workers’ compensation system was designed to protect employees from the potential dangers they face while performing their job – and protect employers from being the target of lawsuits. Benefits are paid to workers who are injured on the job. The benefits paid through the system include:
- Medical expenses related to your injuries
- Compensation for missed wages
- Funeral costs and compensation for dependents you may have if your injuries result in death
The state of Oklahoma requires most businesses to provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, though there are some exceptions, which include:
- Freelancers and independent contractors
- Businesses that have five or fewer employees who are all related by blood or marriage
- Volunteers or those who do not receive regular wages
- Licensed real estate agents
If you were injured while performing your job duties, you must inform your employer of your injuries within 30 days. Employers have to report these injuries to the Commission within 10 days and let you know if they support your claim within 15 days.
