Employers are generally required to have workers’ compensation insurances for when employees are injured on the job. It provides benefits to workers who get injured or sick while on the job. This insurance covers medical costs, provide support during recovery, and compensate for lost income when an injury prevents an employee from working.
Common workplace injuries
Several types of injuries frequently happen in the workplace:
- Slips, Trips, and Falls: These can occur on wet floors or cluttered walkways, leading to sprains or fractures.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: Constant repetitive motions, such as typing on a keyboard or working in manufacturing, can cause conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Machine-Related Injuries: Workers who operate heavy machinery can suffer from crush injuries or amputations.
- Overexertion: Lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects can lead to muscle strains or back injuries.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances: Regular contact with chemicals or toxic materials can cause burns or respiratory issues.
Applying for workers’ compensation
Workers’ compensation often covers those injured at work unless they are independent contractors. Employees must file a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) to apply. Unlike personal injury, where the injured claimant is a victim of others’ negligence, workers qualify if their injury is work-related, regardless of who was at fault. Benefits can include medical expenses and compensation for lost wages, typically lasting until you can return to work or for the duration specified in the policy. The amount paid depends on the severity of the injury, the estimated recovery time, and whether the injured person can return to work and earn the same amount as before the injury.
Seek help from people with the answers
Applying for workers’ compensation can be complicated, and sometimes administrators deny claims, so consulting with a workers’ comp attorney can be beneficial. An attorney can guide the injured through the application process, providing all the necessary documentation and representing you if you need to appeal a claim decision (which you must do within 14 days). The right attorney handles the administrative details, allowing the injured to focus on their recovery.