Cases could trigger end of workers' comp reform apathy

In Enid, former plant worker Darlene Rivera sought workers' comp benefits after falling down in 2011. The catch: She didn't fall while working, but while crossing an icy parking lot to smoke a cigarette. So far, judges have ruled in Rivera's favor once and against her twice. She now seeks an Oklahoma Supreme Court hearing.

That case calls to mind state Rep. Mike Christian, R-Oklahoma City, who sought benefits for a car accident while driving to the Capitol. Workers' comp doesn't apply to the average citizen traveling to work, but Christian argued that his district is his “duty station” and the drive to the Capitol is part of his job.

Christian didn't file a claim for more than a year. He even told a doctor that his symptoms had resolved just weeks after the accident. But by 2012, Christian claimed his neck problems were so severe he could no longer mow his lawn or drive without difficultly. He was ultimately awarded over $51,000, an amount far exceeding his annual legislative salary.