It only takes a second for an accident to happen when you are at work. Ineffective safety policies, inadequate protection equipment, and other factors can bring serious harm to employees. If you have been injured on the job, a Maumee workers’ compensation lawyer can help.
At Schaffer & Associates, our attorneys are knowledgeable in the area of Ohio workers’ compensation law. No matter the seriousness of your injuries or what you are looking at in terms of recovering, we can evaluate your situation and help you file a claim with the state to collect benefits.
When you work with a workers’ compensation attorney from Schaffer & Associates, you can rest assured that your claim will be handled appropriately so that you have the best chance of obtaining the benefits you need to recover as quickly as possible.
Our attorneys are well-versed in all areas of Ohio workers’ compensation law. When you seek guidance or representation from us, we can explain your benefits eligibility, help you file your claim, and help you navigate the settlement process. In unique workers’ comp situations, we can help you file a third-party negligence claim or explain your rights if you have been in a work-related car accident.
The sooner you get in touch with our law firm after your workplace accident, the more time we will have to gather the evidence needed to prove you are owed benefits. Schedule a free case evaluation to learn more.
Injured workers who reach out to us often have many of the same questions when they start looking into their legal rights regarding workers’ compensation. When you meet with us for your consultation, our Maumee workers’ compensation attorneys will thoroughly explain your options and help you take the steps needed to pursue benefits. The following are some of those frequently asked questions.
The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is the regulatory agency that enforces workers’ comp laws throughout the state. As an injured employee in Ohio, you have the right to the following:
No matter the severity of your injuries after a workplace accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. State law allows employees to see any doctor for their initial visit. However, the subsequent visits must be completed with a BWC-certified provider. If you do not seek medical attention, there will be no record of your injury, and you will be ineligible for benefits.
Injured employees can file a workers’ compensation claim in Ohio anytime they have been injured at work and within the scope of their employment. It is very important to note that claims must be filed within one year of the date of injury. The state separates claims into two categories: medical-only and lost-time. Medical-only claims apply to individuals who missed seven or fewer work days because of their accident and related injuries. Lost-time claims apply to those who miss more than eight days of work. Your attorney will walk you through the claims process and ensure that all documentation is filed accurately and on time.
The type of benefits you are eligible for is based on your injuries and their severity. The BWC provides the following types of compensation, where applicable:
When you work with an attorney, they will determine which benefits you are potentially eligible for and help you take the necessary steps to work through the claims process.
More About the Types of Workers’ Compensation Claims
The start date for workers’ compensation benefits depends on when you file and how many days you miss work. If you are eligible for TT benefits, BWC pays on day eight, so long as the worker can return within 14 days of injury. The first seven days are compensable if you are out of work for more than 14 days. All payments are electronically deposited.
Even if you have a strong case for workers’ compensation benefits, there is a chance your claim could be denied. Some of the most common reasons claims are denied in Ohio include the following:
Fortunately, injured workers have options when the BWC denies their initial claim.
If your claim is denied and you disagree with the decision, you must file an appeal with the Industrial Commission of Ohio (IC). It is important to note that the request must be filed within 14 days of receiving the denial. Once you file your appeal, the IC will notify you of a date, time, and place for your hearing. Your attorney can guide you through this process to give you the best chance of collecting benefits.
If you or someone you love was injured at work and is now suffering from injuries and related financial losses, a Maumee workers’ compensation lawyer from Schaffer & Associates is ready to help. We represent clients in and out of Maumee from our Toledo office. Take control of your future and contact us today to learn about your workers’ compensation eligibility.