To ensure your claim is processed properly and that you get the benefits you deserve, get an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side.
When on-the-job accidents, injuries, or illnesses happen that prevent you from working, workers’ compensation benefits available through your employer act as a safety net. They help to ensure you get the medical care you need, offset lost wages, and compensate you for any resulting long-term disabilities. However, in too many cases, these benefits end up being denied, delayed, or otherwise disputed. To ensure you get the maximum amount you deserve and are entitled to, get an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side.
When Job Related Injuries or Illnesses Happen
Workers’ compensation acts as a form of insurance, protecting employees who become injured or suffer occupational illnesses in the course of performing their jobs. It is a federally mandated program that is operated on a state level. In Tulsa, these benefits are administered through the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC). They are based on your average weekly income and generally represent up to 70% of your wages. They also cover medical costs associated with your injury or illness, provide compensation for long term disabilities, and offer job retraining in the event you are unable to return to your prior occupation.
When an accident happens or you develop symptoms of an occupational illness, it is important to notify your employer immediately. They will complete an incident report and take other steps needed to file your claim. Unfortunately, disputes can easily arise that can throw a monkey wrench into this process. Common problems include:
- Your employer questions how your injury or illness happened and whether it occurred on the job;
- They express doubt about whether your condition prevents you from working and justifies a workers’ compensation claim;
- They dispute your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits in general;
- They fail to follow the steps needed to initiate your claim.
Consulting with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible after you are diagnosed with an injury or illness can help to prevent these problems and protect your rights in filing a claim.
Problems with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
Even if you did not get legal help and have already filed a workers’ compensation claim, you should still get an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side to prevent any problems that could arise. Among the most common issues when it comes to obtaining benefits include:
- Your benefit claim ends up being denied.
- Your benefit claim is delayed due to red tape or requests for additional information.
- You were awarded benefits but the amount is less than what you expected or deserve.
- You received benefits for a period of time but payments have abruptly stopped.
Contact Our Tulsa, OK Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
At Boettcher, Devinney, Ingle & Wicker, we can guide you through the workers’ compensation claims process, resolving potential disputes and appealing any denied or disputed benefits. Call 918-728-6500 or contact our Tulsa, OK workers’ compensation attorneys online and request a consultation today.
