Workers' Compensation Mileage Rates in Oklahoma – 2019 Overview

2019 Mileage Rate – State‑Specific Figure

In 2019, Oklahoma set the workers' compensation mileage reimbursement at $0.50 per mile for medical travel and $0.25 per mile for non‑medical travel. These amounts are the maximum amounts an insurer may pay for a claimant's travel to and from medical facilities or other required appointments.

How the Rates Are Determined

The Oklahoma Department of Insurance (ODI) reviews industry data, cost of living adjustments, and average vehicle operating expenses each year. The 2019 rates reflect a modest increase from the 2018 $0.45/$0.20 schedule, aligning with statewide fuel price trends and vehicle maintenance costs.

Key Components

• Medical mileage: $0.50/mile – applies to hospital visits, specialist appointments, and physical therapy.
• Non‑medical mileage: $0.25/mile – applies to transportation to court, employer meetings, or other non‑medical obligations.
• Maximum limits: Claims must stay within the statutory ceiling; excess mileage is denied.

Claimant Eligibility and Documentation

To qualify, a claimant must demonstrate that travel was necessary for their medical treatment or for fulfilling job‑related duties affected by the injury. Proof typically includes:

• Appointment confirmation or medical referral.
• Receipts or logs showing distance and purpose.
• Employer authorization for non‑medical trips.

Paying the Mileage Reimbursement

Insurance carriers calculate mileage by multiplying the distance (in miles) by the applicable rate. For example, a 20‑mile round‑trip medical visit would yield $20.00 (20 miles × $1.00 total for round trip). The insurer then pays the claimant via check or direct deposit, subject to the claim's settlement terms.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Claimants often over‑estimate mileage or include non‑covered trips, leading to partial payments. Employers should:

• Maintain accurate mileage logs.
• Verify the necessity of each trip with medical providers.
• Ensure documentation matches the 2019 rate schedule.

Where to Find Updated Rates

Although 2019 rates are now archived, the ODI website publishes current mileage tables annually. Employers and claimants should consult the latest bulletin before filing new claims to avoid outdated calculations.