Workers Compensation in Dayton, OH
You aren’t alone if you ask “How does workers comp work?” Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides wage and medical benefits to people who have become ill or injured while at work. The extent of workers’ comp coverage an employer is required to carry is governed by Ohio state law. Thus, in trying to figure out how workers comp works, it helps to understand the laws on the books in the state where the business operates. If the injury or illness a worker sustains is eligible for compensation, the insurance carrier should help ease the financial burden the illness or injury created on the worker. Learn some of the basic principles of Dayton, Ohio workers’ compensation insurance and how the process works.
Workers Compensation Statistics in Dayton, Ohio?
Although workplace injuries are on the decline in Dayton, according to the Dayton Daily News, workers still must be on guard. Roadway and transportation accidents, slip and falls, crushing by falling objects, and even electrocutions are still far too common and continue to plague workers. Overexertion also leads to many workplace accidents in Dayton, as this leads to mental and physical strain.
How Does Workers Comp Work in Dayton, Ohio?
Unfortunately, going through the process of applying for workers’ compensation begins with getting sick or injured on the job. The circumstances surrounding the incident that led to your problems are especially crucial. For example, the injury had to occur during your regular work duties. While an event that happens during your lunch break wouldn’t apply, getting into a car accident while running an errand for your boss would qualify for a claim.
All businesses must carry workers compensation insurance in Ohio. According to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, even single-employee businesses are required. If you are injured in a work-related accident or activity, you may be entitled to benefits ranging from medical treatment, to disability, and even compensation for lost wages. You could also receive benefits for rehabilitation, and even vocational training for a new job if your accident has left you unable to perform your previous job.
For example, say your supervisor asked you to drop something off on your lunch break. While running this errand you then get in a car accident on your way to the destination. Any resulting injury is eligible for workers’ compensation. However, if you are on your lunch break, performing no such task when you get in an accident, it does not qualify for a claim.
The steps you take immediately following a workplace incident in Dayton, Ohio are critical for purposes of filing a claim for compensation. Follow the following steps to preserve your rights and learn how workers comp works.
Get Medical Attention
After you get injured or feel ill, the first step is to see a doctor. Don’t delay seeking help from a Dayton, Ohio healthcare professional. This could not only jeopardize your health, but you run the risk of missing time-sensitive deadlines in the workers’ compensation process. Having a proper medical report detailing the extent of the damage and how it occured is the first step in the process. Your employer cannot file a claim with their insurance carrier without this information.
When dealing with a job-related illness, the symptoms and diagnosis may not happen right away. You may find yourself attending regular checkups and testing for weeks or months. All before a doctor finally associates your illness with your job. Your doctor may make the determination that the illness is the result of your work conditions. Once they do, see your human resources representative to file a workers’ compensation claim.
File a First Report of Injury
The first report of an on the job injury or illness will provide the workers’ compensation insurance carrier with the details of the events leading up to the injury. In this report, you will provide your physical injuries, the medical treatment you received and the facilities that provided it. It’s always a good idea to bring a copy of the doctor’s report to submit with the report of injury.
Time is the number one priority when dealing with a work-related accident, according to the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation. Acting in a timely manner on all fronts can save your health, your career, and establish a proper timeline of events. Something that is easier for your employers and insurance carriers to follow. If you sustain an injury while working, you must tell your employer as soon as possible. You also need to seek medical treatment immediately. Taking quick, decisive action in these areas will allow you to navigate any future disputes, should they arise.
Timeline and Other Information
After you file in Dayton, your employer will report the incident to the insurance provider. A decision must come down from the insurance carrier within 28 days as to whether or not they will honor the claim. Once your claim is approved you can begin receiving benefits equal to about 72% of your pre-injury salary for up to 12 weeks. When this window passes you can receive benefits amounting to about 67% of your previous weekly working wage.
Your employer should furnish you with information about the claims process. The adjuster or insurance carrier representative may want to speak to you at some point. Typically about the incident and to any possible witnesses to the event. In the meantime, the workers’ comp insurer may begin paying medical benefits while the investigation into your claim continues.
Why You Should Hire a Dayton, Ohio Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
While workers’ compensation claims may be straightforward for some cases in Dayton, Ohio, in others, it may be more difficult. For example, your employer might ask if you suffer an injury on the clock or on your own time. It’s also common for a company to question the full extent of your injury. Hiring a Daytonworkers’ comp lawyer ensures that you have an advocate to fight for your rights as a victim.
Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer In Dayton, Ohio
If you are hurt or contract an illness as a result of your job in Dayton, Ohio you need to find the right people to help. Since the workers’ compensation claims process can have pitfalls, you should consider getting a local attorney who knows how to avoid them.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!
