Getting hurt on the job is an awful experience, and nobody should have to go through it. When you do suffer an injury at work, it is essential to find out whether you are eligible to obtain benefits through the Ohio workers’ compensation system.
I know that injured employees have many different questions about how the workers’ compensation system works, and I want to provide some information about common concerns. The following are five things to know about a Columbus workers’ compensation claim.
- Your Injury Must Arise Out of Your Employment to be Compensable
To be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, your injury must arise out of your employment. What does this mean? The injury has to happen on a job site, or it must occur in the course of your employment.
Usually this requirement is straightforward, but some complicated scenarios can arise. For example, while you are clearly not covered by workers’ comp when you are on your way to work, if you are running an errand for your boss after work and get hurt in an accident, that injury may be compensable through workers’ compensation.
- You Must File Your Claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation
Your Columbus workers’ compensation claim will need to be filed with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).
- You May be Able to Receive Multiple Forms of Compensation
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide injured workers with various forms of compensation, including medical payments, wage replacement (for lost wages due to your inability to work), permanent partial scheduled loss payments, travel reimbursement in certain cases, and many others.
- Traumatic Injuries and Occupational Diseases Can Be Covered
Workers’ compensation coverage in Ohio can be available for both traumatic injuries (such as a fall or an accident at work), as well as for some types of occupational disease claims. Depending upon the specific facts of your situation, an occupational disease claim may provide compensation for hearing loss or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- You Cannot Sue Your Employer, but Another Party May Be Held Liable in a Civil Lawsuit
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. As such, you cannot file a lawsuit against your employer for negligence. However, you could be eligible to file a lawsuit against a third party who is responsible for your injuries.
Contact Me for Assistance with Your Workers’ Comp Claim
Filing a workers’ compensation claim with the Ohio BWC can be a complicated process, and initial claims can be denied for a variety of reasons. Whether you need assistance with the initial claims process, have questions about your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits, or want to appeal a denial of benefits, I am here to help with your case.
I have spent years assisting injured workers, and I want to make sure you get the care and coverage you need. As I said above, in some cases, it may even be possible to file a third-party lawsuit against an at-fault person. Call my office today at 877.614.9524 to find out about your options. I’ll Make Them Pay!®
