Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Akron, OH

Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Akron, OH

Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Akron, OH

Work-related injuries or illnesses can be life-altering, impacting your ability to earn a living and sustain your quality of life. When you get injured on the job, workers’ compensation serves as a crucial safety net, providing financial support and access to necessary medical care.

In theory, the process of getting workers’ compensation may seem simple and straightforward. In reality, that’s not always the case. Although your employer likely means well and wants to ensure you get all the benefits you need to help you heal, recover, and get back to work, the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation isn’t necessarily on your side.

Even though the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) is technically a state agency, they still have an incentive to minimize their costs. If that is the case and you find yourself struggling to make ends meet, you might need the help of an experienced lawyer who can face the insurance carrier head-on and help ensure you receive the benefits you’re owed.

Who’s Entitled to Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a system designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of fault. In general, most employees are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. However, there are exceptions, such as independent contractors, volunteers, and certain agricultural workers, who may not be covered under this system.

What Injuries and Illnesses Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

Workers’ compensation covers a wide range of work-related injuries and illnesses. These include:

• Physical Injuries: This category encompasses injuries resulting from accidents on the job, such as falls, machinery accidents, lifting injuries, and transportation accidents while on duty.
• Occupational Diseases: Workers’ compensation may cover diseases or conditions that develop as a result of exposure to dangerous materials in the workplace, such as respiratory diseases from exposure to harmful chemicals. Repetitive stress injuries, like carpal tunnel syndrome, is also a type of occupational injury caused by performing job duties.
• Aggravation of Pre-existing Conditions: In some cases, workers’ compensation can also cover the aggravation of pre-existing conditions if work-related activities worsen the condition.
• Mental Health Conditions: Some states provide coverage for work-related mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, if they result from specific workplace events or conditions.

Can I Get Workers’ Comp if I’m at Fault for My Injury?

One of the key principles of workers’ compensation is that it is a no-fault system. This means in most cases, fault or negligence is not a factor in determining eligibility for benefits. Regardless of whether the injury was due to your own actions or a workplace accident, you can generally still qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, there are exceptions.

If you intentionally injure yourself with the intent to obtain workers’ compensation benefits, engage in serious misconduct like taking drugs or drinking alcohol, or if your injuries happen outside of the scope of employment (like during a lunch break), your claim will likely be denied.

How to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

You won’t receive your benefits unless you file a workers’ compensation claim. This is a critical step to receive workers’ compensation. Below is a general outline of the process:

1. Notify Your Employer: Report your injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible, preferably within the timeframe specified by your state’s workers’ compensation laws.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Get prompt medical treatment for your injury or illness. You will normally be required to go to specific physicians who work with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).
3. Complete the Necessary Forms: Your employer should provide you with the appropriate forms to initiate the claim process. Complete these forms accurately and promptly.
4. Submit the Claim: Submit the completed forms to your employer and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.
5. Investigation and Decision: The BWC will investigate your claim, which may include reviewing medical records, speaking with witnesses, and assessing your eligibility.
6. Receive Benefits: If your claim is approved, you should begin receiving benefits, which may include medical care coverage, compensation for lost wages, vocational rehabilitation, and, in some cases, permanent disability benefits.

When to Contact an Akron Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

While some workers’ compensation claims proceed smoothly, others may encounter challenges or disputes. You may want to consult a workers’ compensation lawyer in the following situations:

• Claim Denial: If your claim is denied, a lawyer can help you appeal the decision and gather additional evidence to strengthen your case.
• Disputed Benefits: If there are disputes over the benefits you are entitled to or whether certain treatments or services should be covered, a lawyer can advocate on your behalf.
• Retaliation: If you believe you’re facing retaliation from your employer for filing a workers’ compensation claim, it’s crucial to consult an attorney who can protect your rights.
• Complex Cases: Some injuries or illnesses are complex and may involve multiple parties or insurance carriers. In such cases, a lawyer can help navigate the intricacies of your claim.
• Permanent Disability: If you’ve suffered a permanent disability, determining the appropriate level of compensation can be complex, and a lawyer can ensure you receive a fair settlement.

If you or a loved one has experienced a work-related injury or illness, the Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Akron, OH, at Buckeye Law Group are ready to assist you in navigating the complexities of your case.