A workplace injury can have a ripple effect across your entire life. Not only might you be straddled with sky-high medical bills and left to endure excruciating agony, but a particularly serious injury could also leave you unable to work for weeks, months, or even years after the accident, depriving you and your family of the income you need to make ends meet.
Thankfully, in the state, injured workers can file for workers’ compensation benefits to recover compensation for their treatment costs, lost income, home modifications, and other losses. In this article, we look at the types of benefits provided by Ohio’s workers’ comp system and examine the steps you should take after a workplace accident.
What Is Workers’ Compensation?
Simply put, workers’ comp is a type of insurance purchased by employers so that their staff can file for benefits if they’re injured on the job. Typically, workers’ comp benefits cover expenses associated with the medical care you had to undergo due to a workplace injury such as doctor’s visits, lab tests, prescription medication, physical therapy sessions, home and vehicle modifications, and other healthcare interventions.
Workers’ comp benefits will also reimburse you for any wages you lost as a direct result of your injuries. The amount you will receive is usually calculated based on your average weekly salary. However, there are limits to these benefits, and in most cases, you will receive a percentage of your typical weekly income rather than the full amount.
Am I Eligible for Workers’ Comp Benefits?
While there are some exceptions, almost all employees in the state are eligible to receive workers’ comp if they get sick or are injured on the job. Employers are required to purchase and maintain workers’ compensation coverage for exactly these scenarios. Workers’ comp covers most types of injuries, but you may be disqualified from receiving benefits if it emerges that you were under the influence of alcohol drugs, your injuries are self-inflicted, or you were violating company policies when the accident happened.
What Should I Do after a Workplace Accident?
If you were injured on the job, it’s important that you take the appropriate actions immediately as any mistakes could inhibit your ability to apply for benefits. After suffering an injury at work, you should:
- Visit the Doctor: Even if you were able to stand up after the accident, it’s possible that you suffered a serious injury that is yet to present with any symptoms. A prompt diagnosis will help ensure you get the treatment you need without delay. However, taking this crucial step isn’t just important to your health; visiting the doctor within a reasonable timeframe after a workplace accident could also help you mitigate disputes when you file for benefits.
- Report the Injury: You will need to report the injury to your employer as soon as possible as you will not be able to file for benefits without a record of the accident. If your company has specific protocols for reporting workplace injuries, you should follow their instructions carefully, making sure to complete the necessary paperwork.
- Contact a Workers’ Comp Attorney: While you might think you have a strong case for benefits, it’s possible that your employer and their insurer will dispute your claim to reduce how much they have to pay out. Hiring an attorney to help you build a strong claim and represent you throughout proceedings could help you avoid mistakes and alleviate stress during this challenging chapter of your life. If your claim is denied, your attorney can oversee the appeal, gathering the necessary supporting documents and evidence to help you achieve a favorable outcome.
Speak to a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Ohio Today
Were you injured on the job? You may be entitled to receive benefits for your medical bills and lost wages by filing a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. At Obral, Silk & Pal, LLC, our skilled legal team can assist at every stage, providing guidance and representation throughout proceedings. Contact us today at 216-502-4281 or by sending us a message HERE to request a free consultation with an Ohio workers’ compensation attorney.