Injured at Work in Oklahoma? Here’s What to Do Next
Published October 30
By Jay Chaney, The Chaney Law Firm
Being injured on the job can be one of the most confusing and stressful experiences of your life. Suddenly, your physical health, finances, and job security are all uncertain—and you may not know what steps to take to protect yourself.
If you’ve been hurt at work in Oklahoma, it’s critical to act quickly and follow the right process. The decisions you make in the first few days can directly impact whether you receive the medical care and workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to protect your rights, avoid costly mistakes, and secure your benefits under Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation law.
1. Report the Injury Immediately
The very first step after any work-related injury is to report it to your employer—and do it in writing.
That means sending an email or text message to your supervisor or boss that includes:
When and how the injury occurred
The part of your body affected
Any witnesses present
Under Oklahoma law, you have 30 days to report your injury but waiting that long can severely weaken your claim. The sooner you report, the stronger your case will be.
If your employer refuses to let you fill out an accident report or delays the process, contact an attorney immediately. Employers are legally required to document workplace injuries and delaying that process can affect your ability to receive benefits.
Pro Tip: Keep a screenshot or copy of any written notification you send—it’s vital evidence later.
2. Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Your health comes first. If you need emergency care, go to the ER immediately. You can always notify your employer afterward.
If the injury isn’t an emergency, inform your employer that you need to see a doctor and ask which approved medical provider to visit. Under Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation system, your employer (or their insurance carrier) must give you access to a list of approved physicians.
Always make this request in writing, and if your employer refuses or delays your care, contact an attorney.
You have the right to receive prompt medical attention, and denying or delaying medical care is a serious violation of Oklahoma workers’ compensation law.
At The Chaney Law Firm, we ensure that injured workers are seen by qualified physicians and receive the treatment they’re entitled to under the law.
3. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
You can technically file a workers’ compensation claim on your own—but in Oklahoma, that’s extremely risky. Here’s why:
If your case hasn’t been formally submitted to the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Commission, your insurance adjuster has complete discretion over your benefits. That means they can:
Delay payments for weeks or months
Promise checks that never arrive
Deny you medical treatment without reason
Stop your benefits at any time
And because unrepresented claims aren’t in litigation, there’s no legal penalty for bad faith behavior.
That’s why you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible—even if your employer or insurer claims to be “handling it.”
At The Chaney Law Firm, we don’t wait for the insurance company to do the right thing. From day one, we file your Form 3, place your claim before the Commission, and request a trial for your benefits.
If the insurer pays before trial—great. If not, we’re already moving toward court to enforce your rights.
4. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Once you’re receiving medical care, it’s vital that you follow all of your doctor’s recommendations.
That means:
Attending every appointment
Taking prescribed medications
Following work restrictions or physical limitations
Failure to comply with medical orders can give the insurance company grounds to suspend or terminate your benefits—even if your injury is legitimate.
If your employer pressures you to return to work early or refuses to accommodate your doctor’s restrictions, contact your attorney immediately. We’ll ensure your recovery comes first—not the company’s convenience.
5. Keep Detailed Records of Everything
Documentation is one of the most powerful tools in any Oklahoma workers’ compensation case.
Keep organized records of:
Medical bills, prescriptions, and doctors’ notes
Accident and incident reports
Texts, emails, or letters between you, your employer, and the insurance company
Notes about pain levels, treatment, or missed workdays
This paper trail protects you if disputes arise and gives your attorney the evidence needed to maximize your settlement or court award.
Why Hiring an Attorney Early Makes All the Difference
The Oklahoma workers’ compensation system is complex and often stacked against the worker. Employers and insurers have teams of professionals protecting their interests—you deserve the same.
When you hire The Chaney Law Firm, we:
File your claim immediately to protect your rights
Force the insurance company to act under law
Pursue trials to secure medical and wage benefits
Keep you informed and supported throughout the process
We know the system, the deadlines, and the tactics insurers use—and we don’t let them control your recovery.
Take Action Now — Protect Your Health and Your Future
If you’ve been injured at work in Oklahoma, don’t wait to see what happens.
Every day you delay could cost you benefits, treatment, or vital legal protections.
At The Chaney Law Firm, we fight to ensure that injured workers receive every benefit and every dollar they’re entitled to—and you pay nothing unless we win.
Contact The Chaney Law Firm today to schedule your free consultation and get your case moving forward.
Your recovery starts with the right representation.