Guthrie Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Have you recently been involved in a work-related accident? Do you need to take time off work so you can recuperate and heal from the trauma of your experience? Are financial limitations holding you back and preventing you from being able to continue supporting yourself and your family?

If so, you are not alone. A proven Guthrie workers’ compensation lawyer at BDIW Law could help you get through some of the most challenging times in your life. Schedule a 100% free consultation with a dedicated Guthrie personal injury attorney at our firm today to find out whether you are eligible for workers comp., which benefits you may be entitled to, and steps to take if the insurance company denies your claim.

Certain Work Accidents Happen More Often than Others

No matter what type of industry you work in, if you are injured on the job, you should not have to worry about how you will cover your expenses while you are temporarily or permanently unable to work. Some types of industries are known for being more dangerous than others, but work-related accidents and injuries could happen in any work environment. Some of the most common types of work accidents and injuries your workers’ compensation lawyer in Guthrie, OK sees include:

• Ladder accident accidents
• Slip and fall accidents
• Electrocution
• Occupational illnesses
• Mesothelioma
• Scaffold accidents
• Heavy machinery accidents
• Crushing accidents
• Exposure to toxic substances
• Motor vehicle accidents
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Fires and explosions

These are just a few examples of incidents and accidents that may warrant workers’ compensation benefits. It does not matter who is responsible for causing the accident, as workers comp. is not fault-based. However, that does not mean the insurance company is going to be willing to settle your claim for workers’ compensation benefits without pushing back.

How to Know Whether You Qualify for Workers’ Compensation in Guthrie

Nearly every company with employees across Oklahoma is required to purchase workers’ compensation protection coverage. Employers are mandated to protect their employees in the event of an on-the-job catastrophic injury or work-related illness. Those that failed to do so may be liable through a third-party personal injury lawsuit.

Far too many workers are unsure whether they meet the eligibility requirements or believe they do not qualify. It is not uncommon for employers to discourage employees from filing workers’ compensation claims, as this increases the amount the company is required to pay workers’ compensation insurance premiums. Here are some of the criteria for workers comp claim approval:

Work Hours

You do not need to work a specific number of hours each week to qualify. Many injured workers will hesitate to file a claim because they have only been working with the company for a couple of months or even days. However, workers compensation insurance coverage begins from the day you are hired and there is no eligibility waiting period.

Employee Status

You need to be considered an employee to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Guthrie. If you work full-time, part-time, seasonally, or even temporarily, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation. However, if you are considered an independent contractor, you may not be able to obtain workers comp. benefits through your client’s Insurance providers.

Scope of Employment

While workers’ compensation is not fault-based, to qualify, you must have injured yourself or become ill due to the circumstances of your work environment. Your injury or illness must be caused by your work responsibilities. You may be disqualified for workers’ compensation benefits if your injuries occurred due to a violation of your company’s code of conduct, self-infliction, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Guthrie Workers’ Compensation Benefits Can Help You Avoid Financial Ruin

Workers’ compensation benefits may not be enough to cover every expense, but they can help you stay afloat while you are out of work. If your injuries were caused by the negligence or misconduct of someone else in your work environment, you may have the right to pursue a third-party liability claim against them and collect workers’ compensation benefits. However, generally, when you obtain workers’ compensation, you give up the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against your employer.

There are a wide variety of benefits that may be available to you and your family if your claim for workers comp. is approved. These benefits can typically be collected until you are capable of returning to work or reach the maximum number of weeks allowed based on the type of injury sustained. Here are some of the benefits that you or your family could qualify for:

Disability Benefits

Disability benefits are also commonly referred to as wage replacement benefits. Oklahoma has some of the most injury-victim-friendly disability benefits across the country, providing injured workers with up to 70% of their average weekly salary. However, there may be a cap on the maximum amount of disability benefits that can be paid out, which is adjusted annually.

Full Coverage of Medical Expenses

Your employer’s workers comp. insurance provider will be expected to cover the total value of your medical expenses. You may need to get a workers’ compensation attorney in Guthrie, OK at BDIW Law involved if the insurance company is refusing to cover your healthcare costs. You may want to avoid accepting a lump sum settlement offer, as this will release the insurance company from liability for any of your future medical expenses.

Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits

Vocational rehabilitation benefits are not available in every case. You may qualify for these benefits if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous position. If you need to go back to school or obtain further job training to re-enter the workforce, vocational rehabilitation benefits can cover the costs.

Death Benefits 

Fatal injuries in the workplace are more common than you might think. Surviving family members may be entitled to death benefits for a predetermined amount of time. This might cover the decedent’s funeral and burial expenses, medical expenses, and provide the decedent’s surviving family with disability benefits.

Contact Guthrie’s Leading Workers Comp Law Firm for Help Today

Accessing workers’ compensation benefits should not be as challenging as it can be. Unfortunately, insurance companies do everything they can to escape their financial liability as outlined in their policy terms. Do not let the insurance company get away with taking advantage of you at a time when you and your family are relying on the financial support you deserve.

Make the insurance company pay. Reach out to an experienced Guthrie workers’ compensation attorney at BDIW Law to request a free, no-obligation consultation as soon as today. Get started when you call our office or complete our convenient contact form.