Workers’ Compensation Benefits
What benefits am I entitled to?
Ohio Workers’ compensation benefits are available to assist workers when a workplace injury prevents them from performing their job duties. Workers’ compensation is designed to help support those workers who have been injured at work.
The amount of money received should directly correlate with the medical expense and the lost wages associated with the injury.
Seeking medical attention for any workplace injury is crucial. The more information an injured employee can provide when completing the initial injury report, the better.
When Should I Submit My Application for Workers' Compensation Benefits?
It helps to submit your application as soon as possible.
“Immediately” will not be practical because you must seek medical care, alert your employer, and physically and emotionally recover enough to actually complete the online forms that the BWC requires.
It is also a good idea to start a workers’ comp claim even if you think your injury or symptoms are less-than-completely disabling.
As long as you require medical care, you likely have grounds for applying for workers’ compensation. If nothing else, reporting your injury or illness will alert your employer to a safety issue that may need to be addressed so other people do not get hurt or fall ill.
Do not wait to file a workers’ compensation claim!
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- Waiting to file a workers’ comp claim could raise red flags for BWC investigators and at the insurance company that holds the workers’ compensation policy for your employer.
- Claims administrators and insurance carriers will wonder if a delay following the injury or diagnosis means the injury or exposure did not happen on the job.
Historical Background of Workers' Compensation Benefits
The need for workers’ compensation came about because, in the past, employers would be sued for each instance of workplace injuries. Rather than continue the practice, employers and employees entered into a bargain where employers would invest in an insurance program that would pay out employees if they become injured on the job.
Employers whose employees engage in high-risk or dangerous work activities purchase workers’ compensation insurance. They do this with the understanding that they cannot be sued for workplace negligence. Rather, they will payout of the insurance fund created to address workplace injuries.
This system has evolved to be a “no fault” resolution to a workplace injury. Rather than spend legal fees to find fault, most prefer to focus on the injury.
Contact Our Ohio Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
If you need assistance with filing for workers’ compensation benefits. The lawyers of Agee Clymer Portman and Mitchell are available for a free consultation for any injured worker wanting to apply for workers’ compensation.