For Oklahoma workers, knee injuries at work are almost as common as hand injuries. When a person suffers knee injuries – even minor ones – the average minimum costs are $20,000 or more. This could ruin a typical Oklahoma family with an average income. This is why making a solid workers’ compensation claim is important for anyone facing on-the-job knee injuries. Don’t let an accident at work cost you big.
Knee Injuries at Work– The Anatomy of the Knee
Knees have several tendons which hold together the joint and muscles. There is also an assortment of smaller muscles that surround the knee cap. Cartilage tears in tendons are one of the most common knee injuries. This can occur by strains and tears in the ACL, meniscus, or other medial tendons. The ACL is the main tendon holding together the knee joint. It is often torn in physically demanding jobs, making walking and lifting extremely difficult. Conversely, the meniscus is a thin layer of cartilage between the femur and shin bones. This keeps the knee stable and the bones from rubbing on each other. Other medial tendons help connect the knee and stabilize it for basic movement too.
Read This Article About Reporting Your Work Injury
Result of Knee Injuries at Work
Many people understand that a knee injuries at work can put you on crutches. However, sometimes the injury may require surgery. This could take months to heal and fully rehabilitate. Thus, your mobility and independence could suffer. As a result, you will likely be unable to perform any manual labor duties at your workplace. Sometimes you will be able to perform alternate duties. But, if your workplace does not offer alternate work, you may simply just be off work entirely.
Workers’ Compensation for Knee Injuries
Under Title 85A §35 the employer must have insurance to cover workplace injuries. This insurance will provide you with payments for medical
treatment, lost wages in some cases, and a settlement at the end of the compensation process. However, you must make your claim within 2 years of the injury or you will be forever barred from recovery. Thus, as soon as you know of the injury you should make an injury report with your company and give them notice. This should initiate the process.
However, it is important to note that sometimes companies are lackadaisical in starting the process. This could mean you either pay your medical out of pocket or your just wait. While this could be a bad faith delay, it could also increase your suffering and put you in a financial bind.
Call our Tulsa Workplace Injury Attorneys
Our attorneys have years of experience helping clients out of tough situations regarding workers’ compensation claims. If you are suffering from knee injuries at work, call our offices. Your first consultation is free and we can help you navigate the entire process.
