Hand injuries at work are among the most common workplace injuries in Oklahoma, especially in jobs involving machinery, tools, heavy lifting, or repetitive motion. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, food service, or an office setting, an injury to your hands can immediately affect your ability to do your job. Fortunately, Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation provides benefits for employees who suffer hand injuries on the job—if certain requirements are met.
When a Hand Injury at Work Is Covered Under Workers’ Compensation
Under Oklahoma law, an injury is covered if it arises out of and occurs in the course of employment. This means you can typically file a workers’ compensation claim if your hand injury happened while performing job-related tasks. Common covered injuries include:
- Cuts, lacerations, or crushed fingers from machinery
- Fractures from falls or accidents
- Burns from heat, chemicals, or electrical sources
- Repetitive-use injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis
- Injuries caused by lifting, pushing, pulling, or handling tools
Even if the hand injury at work develops gradually—such as numbness or pain from repetitive motions—it can still qualify as a work-related injury if your job duties caused or contributed to the condition.
When a Hand Injury May Not Be Covered
There are a few situations where coverage may be denied. If the injury occurred while you were off the clock, on a personal errand, violating safety rules, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your claim may face challenges. Likewise, pre-existing hand or wrist conditions may require additional medical documentation to show the injury was aggravated by your job.
Steps to Take After a Hand Injury at Work
To protect your right to workers’ compensation benefits, it’s important to act quickly. Oklahoma law requires you to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible—ideally the same day. After the report is made, your employer should send you to an authorized medical provider for evaluation and treatment.
From there, you may be entitled to medical treatment, temporary disability benefits if you cannot work, permanent disability benefits if the injury affects long-term hand function, and reimbursement for travel to medical appointments.
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Hand injuries often involve long recovery periods and may limit your ability to grip, lift, or perform daily work tasks. Because insurers sometimes dispute the cause of repetitive-use injuries or argue that the injury is not work-related, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can make a significant difference in the success of your claim.
An attorney can help you document your injury, communicate with the insurance company, request additional medical treatment, work with the Oklahoma Workers’ Compensation Committee, and pursue the benefits you’re entitled to under Oklahoma law.
Talk to a Creek County Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you injured your hands at work and are unsure whether you qualify for workers’ compensation, we can help. Our Creek County workers’ compensation attorneys represent injured workers across Oklahoma and ensure they receive the medical care and wage benefits the law provides. Our team of Creek County Attorneys can help you through the process and advocate for you. Call us at 918-209-3709 for a free and confidential consultation or ask a legal question here.
