An Oklahoma court of appeals upheld a controversial workers’ comp ruling this week, granting a state representative work comp benefits for injuries sustained during his commute to work.
Back in 2009, Oklahoma state representative Mike Christian struck a truck on his way to the capital with his wife. Christian sustained neck and back injuries in the accident.
This ruling is controversial because workers’ compensation benefits usually do not cover injuries sustained while commuting to and from work. However, the court ruled that there is an exception in this instance due to the fact that legislators are allowed mileage reimbursement for one trip to the capital each week.
The insurance carrier appealed the initial ruling, but it was upheld by a unanimous vote. Even though the ruling was upheld, the appeals board reduced Christian’s work comp benefits from $61,560 to $51,300 after reviewing his injuries.
What do you think, dear readers? Should injuries sustained during work commutes be covered under workers’ compensation benefits?
Related Sources:
claimsjournal.com
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