Knee injuries at work are extremely common.  Minimum recovery costs for a typical knee injury are generally $20,000 on average.  For some families, this is over half of their annual income.  This is why Workers’ Compensation is in place.  It intends to help workers pay for on-the-job injuries and not have to face out of pocket expenses of such magnitude.

Knee Anatomy

Knee injuries are common because you regularly use your knees in nearly every employment setting.  The knees contain a system of tendons and muscles to help you move.  Tearing the cartilage of the knee occurs often.  This manifests as an ACL tear, torn meniscus, or straining of other tendons.  Your ACL is the largest tendon in your knee.  It connects the main knee joint.  If you tear an ACL, it is likely in a manual labor career.  ACL tears can make even the simplest walking and lifting tasks painful and difficult.

The meniscus though, is a thin layer of cartilage that pads the knee joint.  It is between the femur and the shin.  The meniscus provides stability in the knee while keeping the bones from grinding together.  Smaller tendons also aid in stabilizing the knee as well.

Consequences of Knee Injuries

While most people recognize that knee injuries can cause pain walking and standing, many do not realize the gravity.  In several cases, even if the pain does not seem severe, surgery is a necessity.  Once a person undergoes surgery, they will need time to recover from the procedure.  Recovery means time off work, and therefore not earning income.  This occurs, on top of mounting medical expenses.

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Workers’ Compensation and Knee Injuries

Title 85A in Oklahoma law encompasses the Workers Comp laws.  Specifically, §35 requires employers to have insurance in place for on-the-job injuries.  Such policies generally provide reimbursement for medical treatment and lost wages.  If you are making a workers’ comp claim for knee injuries, it is imperative you make the claim within 2 years of the initial injury.  To initiate the process, report your injury to the company, make a report, and give notice that you are applying for workman’s comp.

Claremore Workers Comp Lawyers

Our workers comp lawyers have experience handling the knee injuries of many clients.  We serve Rogers County, as well as Claremore.  If you have further questions on filing a worker’s comp claim for knee injuries, call our offices.  Your first consultation is free.