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When you’re injured while working in another state

Workers come each season to work on the oil fields. It’s honest work for good money, plus it means getting out and seeing a little bit more of the world. Being an oil field worker is dangerous though, and accidents happen every day.

What can you do when you’re injured on the job but live out of state? Does workers’ comp apply if you don’t live in the state you’re injured in? Do you need a lawyer? Do they need to be from your state? Relax, you can draw workers’ compensation with some help from a local attorney.

Starting a workers‘ comp claim

Probably the most important thing you can do after being injured on the job is tell your supervisor. You have a limited amount of time to notify your employer after an injury if you plan to draw workers’ comp. If you miss the deadline (usually 2 weeks), your chances at comp are most likely gone.

Once you have the ball rolling on your claim, you will want to speak with a local lawyer to move it along. The law doesn’t require you to have legal representation, but having a personal injury attorney on your side makes the process much easier. Think of it like having a manager to handle the complicated parts for you.

Local lawyers

There are several reasons you will want to stay local when seeking legal representation. Even if you have a lawyer you prefer in your home state, hiring locally can cut down considerably on commuting, scheduling, telecommuting and other hassles that get in the way when you’re forced to do business remotely.

It’s usually easy to find skilled attorneys who specialize in workers’ compensation. These professionals know how to streamline the claim process and making sure their clients get the compensation they deserve. Plus, workers’ compensation laws vary from state to state – meaning local attorneys will know how to leverage local laws to help your claim.

After the claim

Once your claim is processed and approved, you can focus on recovering and returning to work. Situations vary, but workers’ compensation can reimburse you for:

  • Lost wages
  • Medical bills
  • Surgery bills
  • Rehab costs
  • Emotional trauma
  • Long term problems and illness

These funds can make a massive difference when you’re unable to work. You will be able to rest easily knowing that your bills back home are taken care of, as is your family.

Workers’ compensation can be a daunting subject to approach. That’s doubly true if you’re injured in an unfamiliar place. Workers’ comp is a safety net designed to help you through difficult situations. Don’t be afraid to use it.