Ohio workers’ compensation laws are designed to help injured workers with medical expenses and lost wages when the injury occurred during the performance of the job. There are several benefits one may receive under workers’ compensation law, and Dworken & Bernstein’s workers’ compensation attorneys can help you evaluate your options.
Prior to taking any action regarding your workers’ compensation claim, it is imperative to seek medical attention for your injuries. Your health is paramount, and seeking care from a medical professional will help determine your next steps. In addition to visiting with a doctor right away, you will need to alert your employer, and then begin the workers’ compensation process as soon as possible. Learn more about the workers’ compensation laws in Ohio below.
Ohio Workers’ Compensation
The Ohio agency that handles workers’ compensation claims is the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). All Ohio workers’ compensation laws are found under the Workers’ Compensation Act (Chapter 4123 of the Ohio Revised Code). There are also some important administrative rules regarding workers’ compensation. Of course, your workers’ compensation attorney will answer any questions that arise as you pursue compensation for your workplace injuries.
As a worker in the state of Ohio, you will need to file a FROI form (First Report of an Injury, Occupational Disease or Death). Completion of this form will initiate your workers’ compensation claim. Much of this information can be completed online and submitted electronically to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.
Wage Compensation
If you suffered a workplace injury or illness that resulted in either a temporary or permanent disability, you may qualify for wage reimbursement. There is a seven-day waiting period before you can receive these benefits, however, if your injury is prolonged more than two weeks, you may be able to receive back payment of wages for this waiting period. Types of disabilities for which a worker can receive wage compensation include the following:
- Temporary Total Disability. If you cannot return to work due to a temporary total disability, you will receive compensation totaling two-thirds of your average regular wage.
- Partial Disability. If you have a partial disability that will prevent you from working your job at full capacity, you will be entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wage for a limited time period.
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits. If your injuries are so severe that you are determined to be permanently and totally disabled, you will receive two-thirds of your average weekly wage ongoing.
Contact the Workers’ Compensation Benefits Attorney at Dworken & Bernstein
Ohio has unique laws regarding workers’ compensation benefits that you won’t find in most other states. Due to the fact that our workers’ compensation benefits are provided by the state, it is important to ensure that you file the correct paperwork in order to receive the appropriate compensation for your injuries. If you have suffered a work-related injury or illness, contact the law office of Dworken & Bernstein at (440) 946-7656 for your free consultation. We can help you understand and apply for the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled.
