Workers' Compensation


A workplace injury can affect your ability to participate in work and everyday activities, dramatically lowering your quality of life. If your injury is connected to work, workers' compensation lawyer Joey Chiaf, in Oklahoma City, OK, can help you pursue a claim.

 
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You Have Rights

UNDER OKLAHOMA'S WORKERS' COMPENSATION LAWS

The workers' compensation system is intended to ensure employees have the funds necessary to recover from a work-related injury or illness. In Oklahoma, employers must have insurance to cover workers' compensation claims, and those providers must reasonably consider your claim for coverage.

However, navigating the system can be complex and cause unneeded anxiety when you should be focused on your recovery. This is especially true if your initial claim is denied. Workers' compensation attorney Joey Chiaf of Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, can help with all stages of your claim and will fight to ensure you receive what you need to recover and begin rebuilding your life.

 
Worker filing claim

Do I Have a Case?

Workers' compensation cases involve four crucial components:

Workers' Compensation Insurance

In Oklahoma, employers are required to provide workers' compensation insurance for their employees, no matter the size of the workforce or how many hours they work. 

Employee Status

To qualify for workers' compensation benefits, you must be an eligible employee. Typically, freelancers or consultants are disqualified from these benefits.

Work-Related Injury 

To qualify for your workers' comp claim, you must have been performing a work-related activity during your time of employment when the injury occurred. 

Proper Reporting and Filing

In the state of Oklahoma, the deadline for notifying your employer of your injury is 30 days after you notice the injury. Notify your employer of any injuries as soon as possible.

 
 

Do I Have a Case?

Workers' compensation cases involve four crucial components:

Workers' Compensation Insurance

In Oklahoma, employers are required to provide workers' compensation insurance for their employees, no matter the size of the workforce or how many hours they work. 

Employee Status

To qualify for workers' compensation benefits, you must be an eligible employee. Typically, freelancers or consultants are disqualified from these benefits.

Work-Related Injury 

To qualify for your workers' comp claim, you must have been performing a work-related activity during your time of employment when the injury occurred. 

Proper Reporting and Filing

In the state of Oklahoma, the deadline for notifying your employer of your injury is 30 days after you notice the injury. Notify your employer of any injuries as soon as possible.

 

Explore Your Options

Whether you are pursuing a new workers' compensation claim or disputing a denied claim, we can help.
Call our Oklahoma City office to schedule your free consultation.

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A Workers' Compensation Attorney Can Help You:

+ Secure Benefits

If your place of employment denies your claim, does not take action fast enough, or tries settling for an unfair amount, hiring a workers' comp attorney is essential. By placing a dedicated legal team in your corner, you have the best chances of recovering a full, fair settlement for your injuries.

+ Help You Recover

If you are unhappy with the medical care provided by your employer, a workers' comp lawyer can arrange for you to get a second opinion from a different medical provider.

+ Hold Third Parties Accountable

If you were injured on the job due to negligence on the part of someone other than your employer, you might be able to pursue a different or separate action by filing a third-party claim.

man in wheelchair
 

Other Benefits of Hiring a Workers' Compensation Attorney

Oklahoma workers' compensation law is complex, and each case has its distinct circumstances. Claimants without an intimate knowledge of these policies are at a distinct disadvantage. Without the help of a workers' compensation attorney, you may find that your losses and expenses are not adequately covered.
With Joey Chiaf on your side, you can:

Focus on Your Health

An injury at work can be devastating. By hiring a workers' compensation lawyer with our Oklahoma City firm, you can focus on getting your health and quality of life back to normal while we focus on your injury case.

Collect the Right Evidence

Don't let another party determine how much you are owed. Our workers' comp attorneys can collect the evidence you need and build a compelling case that supports why you need compensation or support following your injury.

Rely on Us

Claim adjusters are doing their job, which doesn't involve looking out for your best interests. Hiring a lawyer who is focused on your well-being is the best way to protect yourself from a claim denial or getting shortchanged.

Resolve Disputes

A workers' compensation attorney can review your injury case and resolve any disputes between you and your place of employment so we can bring your case to a quick and favorable resolution.

Maximize Payout

Our Oklahoma City workers' compensation lawyers are proud to stand up for the rights of injured workers to maximize the payout for lost wages and medical care so they can rebuild their lives in the wake of an injury.

Present a Strong Case

Workers' comp lawyer Joey Chiaf has represented injured workers for over three decades. He can help prove the full extent of damage and losses, resulting in better compensation for our clients.

 
 

Do Not Wait

GET THE HELP YOU NEED TODAY

Workers' compensation claims can quickly become more complicated than you expect. The team at Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, will work closely with you throughout your case to ensure you receive what you deserve after a work-related injury or illness changes your life. There are no upfront fees for hiring an attorney from our firm. However, there are time limits on receiving compensation with workers' compensation claims, so do not wait to call.

Meet Joey Chiaf

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IF WE DON'T WIN, YOU DON'T PAY

Unfortunately, many injured workers put off filing a claim until it is too late or do not file a claim at all because they think they cannot afford professional help.

 
no win, no fee

►Contingency Basis

At Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, we have made legal help affordable to all Oklahoma workers. Joey Chiaf takes all workplace injury cases on a contingency basis. This means that if you do not get paid, we do not get paid.

►Free Consultations

Our law firm also offers complimentary consultations to clients so you can discuss the details of your case risk-free. If you do not contact a lawyer, you have more to lose, so reach out to our office in Oklahoma City and see how we can help.

 
 
 

What Counts As A Workplace Injury? 

Injuries Can Be Traumatic Or Occupational

Falls

Falls are one of the most common types of construction accidents. Falls from ladders, scaffolding and heights can occur when workers aren't adequately secured, and protective barriers aren't in place. Falls can also happen at other places of work due to debris and uneven surfaces.

Burns

Work injuries involving burns are common in construction and electrical fields. These injuries can occur from electrocution, chemicals, faulty equipment and wiring, fires and more. Burn injuries can be severe and require immediate medical attention for treatment.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Falls are one of the most common types of construction accidents. Falls from ladders, scaffolding and heights can occur when workers aren't adequately secured, and protective barriers aren't in place. Falls can also happen at other places of work due to debris and uneven surfaces.

+ Other Types of Workplace Injuries

  • Back Injuries
  • Electrocution
  • Loss of Limb
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Paralysis
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Struck by Object
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Wrongful Death
fallen worker

Millions of Workplace Injuries Occur Every Year

There were approximately 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries reported in 2019 alone.

*According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

IF WE DON'T WIN, YOU DON'T PAY

Unfortunately, many injured workers put off filing a claim until it is too late or do not file a claim at all because they think they cannot afford professional help.

 
 

►Contingency Basis

At Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, we have made legal help affordable to all Oklahoma workers. Joey Chiaf takes all workplace injury cases on a contingency basis. This means that if you do not get paid, we do not get paid.

►Free Consultations

Our law firm also offers complimentary consultations to clients so you can discuss the details of your case risk-free. If you do not contact a lawyer, you have more to lose, so reach out to our office in Oklahoma City and see how we can help.

 
 
 

What Counts As A Workplace Injury? 

Injuries Can Be Traumatic Or Occupational

Falls

Falls are one of the most common types of construction accidents. Falls from ladders, scaffolding and heights can occur when workers aren't adequately secured, and protective barriers aren't in place. Falls can also happen at other places of work due to debris and uneven surfaces.

Burns

Work injuries involving burns are common in construction and electrical fields. These injuries can occur from electrocution, chemicals, faulty equipment and wiring, fires and more. Burn injuries can be severe and require immediate medical attention for treatment.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Falls are one of the most common types of construction accidents. Falls from ladders, scaffolding and heights can occur when workers aren't adequately secured, and protective barriers aren't in place. Falls can also happen at other places of work due to debris and uneven surfaces.

+ Other Types of Workplace Injuries

  • Back Injuries
  • Electrocution
  • Loss of Limb
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Paralysis
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Struck by Object
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Wrongful Death

Millions of Workplace Injuries Occur Every Year

There were approximately 2.8 million non-fatal workplace injuries reported in 2019 alone.

*According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

 
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Which Benefits Can Be Awarded to Oklahoma Workers?

If your work injury claim has been approved by your employer's insurance company, under workers' compensation law, you can receive:

►Two-thirds of Your Wage

You are eligible to receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage during the time that you are ordered not to work by the insurance company's authorized physician.

►Disability

Under workers' compensation law, you are eligible for payment for permanent partial impairment or a partial disability classified by the insurance company's authorized physician.

►Reimbursement of Expenses

Payment of medical expenses to physicians authorized by the insurance company and reimbursement of related out-of-pocket costs, including medication and mileage if you are required to travel beyond the county of your place of employment.

 
 

Which Benefits Can Be Awarded to Oklahoma Workers?

If your work injury claim has been approved by your employer's insurance company, under workers' compensation law, you can receive:

►Two-thirds of Your Wage

You are eligible to receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage during the time that you are ordered not to work by the insurance company's authorized physician.

►Disability

Under workers' compensation law, you are eligible for payment for permanent partial impairment or a partial disability classified by the insurance company's authorized physician.

►Reimbursement of Expenses

Payment of medical expenses to physicians authorized by the insurance company and reimbursement of related out-of-pocket costs, including medication and mileage if you are required to travel beyond the county of your place of employment.

 
 

Contact Our Law Firm Today

Our law firm is dedicated to protecting Oklahoma workers. If you believe you are entitled to workers' compensation or your claim has been denied, contact us online or call us today to request a complimentary consultation at our Oklahoma City office.

 
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Your Legal Options

PERSONALIZED LEGAL SOLUTIONS 

Administrative Claim

In most work-related injuries, the main route for compensation is an administrative claim. These types of claims typically only cover lost wages and medical expenses, though they may also include benefits for permanent impairments.

With an administrative claim, you follow the typical steps for reporting a work-related injury or illness. While you do not need to hire an attorney and law firm for this type of claim, additional support from our team can ensure you follow the process correctly and receive fair coverage.

Third-Party Claim

If your injury was caused by someone other than your coworker or company, you might have the right to file a third-party claim. With a third-party claim, you can receive compensation for pain and suffering, as well as medical expenses and lost wages.

This type of civil case can supplement your benefits from an administrative claim or help you receive what you need if your company's insurance carrier denies your claim. The team at Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, can investigate the cause of your work-related injury or illness and pursue a personal injury case against those responsible.

lawyer
 

Your Legal Options

PERSONALIZED LEGAL SOLUTIONS 

Administrative Claim

In most work-related injuries, the main route for compensation is an administrative claim. These types of claims typically only cover lost wages and medical expenses, though they may also include benefits for permanent impairments.

With an administrative claim, you follow the typical steps for reporting a work-related injury or illness. While you do not need to hire an attorney and law firm for this type of claim, additional support from our team can ensure you follow the process correctly and receive fair coverage.

Third-Party Claim

If your injury was caused by someone other than your coworker or company, you might have the right to file a third-party claim. With a third-party claim, you can receive compensation for pain and suffering, as well as medical expenses and lost wages.

This type of civil case can supplement your benefits from an administrative claim or help you receive what you need if your company's insurance carrier denies your claim. The team at Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, can investigate the cause of your work-related injury or illness and pursue a personal injury case against those responsible.

 
 

There Is a Time Limit

ON FILING A CLAIM IN OKLAHOMA

Injured workers have a limited amount of time in which to file a workers' compensation claim. The amount of time depends on the type of injury you have suffered, whether you have received medical treatment, whether you have received disability or medical compensation, and other factors.

You Have 30 Days To Notify Your Employer And 2 Years To File A Workers' Compensation Claim.

 
 
industrial worker

Work Injury Occurs

Report the injury to your employer within 30 days.

Notify your employer within 30 days. If you are suffering from an occupational disease or an injury resulting from repeated trauma (like carpal tunnel), you must tell your employer within 90 days of separation from employment.

File your claim within two years

Then, you have two years to file the actual claim, so it is in your best interest to take fast action.

We're here to help

If you have any questions or concerns, book a free consultation with our Oklahoma City workers' compensation lawyers.

 
 
 

Worried About The Cost Of Hiring A Lawyer? 

NO FEES UNTIL WE WIN YOUR CASE 

At Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, we do not get paid until you do. And our attorneys do not like losing. Therefore, we will represent you on a contingency basis, meaning that we will only collect legal fees if we can recover compensation on your behalf.

 
 

There Is a Time Limit

ON FILING A CLAIM IN OKLAHOMA

Injured workers have a limited amount of time in which to file a workers' compensation claim. The amount of time depends on the type of injury you have suffered, whether you have received medical treatment, whether you have received disability or medical compensation, and other factors.

You Have 30 Days To Notify Your Employer And 2 Years To File A Workers' Compensation Claim.

 
 
 

Work Injury Occurs

Report the injury to your employer within 30 days.

Notify your employer within 30 days. If you are suffering from an occupational disease or an injury resulting from repeated trauma (like carpal tunnel), you must tell your employer within 90 days of separation from employment.

File your claim within two years

Then, you have two years to file the actual claim, so it is in your best interest to take fast action.

We're here to help

If you have any questions or concerns, book a free consultation with our Oklahoma City workers' compensation lawyers.

 
 
 

Worried About The Cost Of Hiring A Lawyer? 

NO FEES UNTIL WE WIN YOUR CASE 

At Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, we do not get paid until you do. And our attorneys do not like losing. Therefore, we will represent you on a contingency basis, meaning that we will only collect legal fees if we can recover compensation on your behalf.

 
 

We Can Help

CALL TODAY

Our firm focuses almost exclusively on job-related injuries so that we can provide you with the most attentive service and favorable results. Injured workers and their loved ones can reach our workers' compensation lawyers in Oklahoma City by calling:

 
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What Can You Expect From The Time You File A Claim To When You Hire Us? 

Our Attorneys Can Guide You

THROUGH THE PROCESS 

If your employer denies your workers' comp claim or does not take action fast enough, hiring an attorney is essential.  Although the specifics of your workers' compensation case will depend on the nature of your injury, here is what you can generally expect:

 
 
 

Reporting Injury

Notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible. Failing to do so can affect the outcome of your case or result in the denial of your claim. 

Medical Evaluation

They may arrange for you to see a physician who can evaluate the extent of your injury. This medical provider will also determine whether your injuries will prevent you from returning to work. Remember, you are always entitled to a second opinion with a different physician. 

Medical Care

If your physician recommends medical care, take it. Follow the treatment plan that is prescribed to you. Failing to do so can also affect the outcome of your claim. 

Construction Injury
medical exam

Re-Evaluation

After your treatment, you will see a physician of your choosing so that they can determine whether you can return to work or if you need to receive disability benefits.

Call a Lawyer

If you are unhappy with the outcome of your treatment or decisions made by your employer and haven't already hired a workers' compensation lawyer, it is time to do so. Our Oklahoma City firm can help you achieve a fair settlement. 

 
 

What Can You Expect From The Time You File A Claim To When You Hire Us? 

Our Attorneys Can Guide You

THROUGH THE PROCESS 

If your employer denies your workers' comp claim or does not take action fast enough, hiring an attorney is essential.  Although the specifics of your workers' compensation case will depend on the nature of your injury, here is what you can generally expect:

 
 
 
Construction Injury

Reporting Injury

Notify your employer of your injury as soon as possible. Failing to do so can affect the outcome of your case or result in the denial of your claim. 

Medical Evaluation

They may arrange for you to see a physician who can evaluate the extent of your injury. This medical provider will also determine whether your injuries will prevent you from returning to work. Remember, you are always entitled to a second opinion with a different physician. 

Medical Care

If your physician recommends medical care, take it. Follow the treatment plan that is prescribed to you. Failing to do so can also affect the outcome of your claim. 

Re-Evaluation

After your treatment, you will see a physician of your choosing so that they can determine whether you can return to work or if you need to receive disability benefits.

Call a Lawyer

If you are unhappy with the outcome of your treatment or decisions made by your employer and haven't already hired a workers' compensation lawyer, it is time to do so. Our Oklahoma City firm can help you achieve a fair settlement. 

 
work injury claim form

Contact Chiaf Law Offices If You:

+ Were Not Offered Enough

Suppose the workers' compensation you were offered does not fully cover your losses. In that case, Joey Chiaf can file an appeal on your behalf and build a compelling case to illustrate why you deserve a larger settlement.

+ Were Denied Benefits

In many cases, victims are denied workers' compensation benefits. Chiaf Law Offices, P.C., in Oklahoma City, can appeal your case and work with experts to show why you qualify for workers' compensation.

+ Are Preparing to File

Contacting an attorney as soon as possible is the best way to ensure that you receive the amount of compensation you deserve to cover your expenses and are not denied benefits in the first place.

 
 

More Than 41 Years Experience

OF HANDLING WORKERS' COMPENSATION CASES

Joey Chiaf has over three decades in practice representing injured workers in and around Oklahoma City. He is a dedicated workers' compensation attorney who offers free consultations for every client and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

 
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What Types Of Workers' Compensation Benefits Can I Collect? 

Following A Workplace Injury, You May Be Entitled To: 

Medical Care 

By law, workers' compensation benefits will cover 100 percent of the medical costs associated with your injury as well as any time off taken due to your injury. 

Temporary Disability

If your injury temporarily prevents you from returning to the same job you had before your injury, you may be eligible for temporary disability benefits. But if you can still work (although not as many hours as before) due to physical restriction, you may receive temporary partial disability benefits.

Permanent Disability

If you are permanently disabled because of your injury, you may receive permanent disability benefits. For example, if you are completely unable to return to work at all, you may receive permanent total disability benefits. But if you can still work with your physical impairment, you may receive permanent partial disability benefits instead. 

Death Benefits

If a workplace injury killed your loved one, you are entitled to death benefits as a dependent or family member. 

consultation

These Benefits Can Help You Pay For:

  • Funeral Expenses

  • Hospital Bills

  • Lost Wages

  • Physical Therapy

  • Prescriptions

  • Programs or Services

  • Transportation

  • Vocational Rehabilitation

 

Workers' Compensation FAQs

 

Contact Us Today


 

SCHEDULE A 100% FREE,
NO-OBLIGATION CONSULTATION

Call Chiaf Law Offices in Oklahoma City to review your case. We offer free consultations for personal injury victims.

 
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