What are the laws regarding workers' compensation in Ohio?
By
In Ohio, workers' compensation is regulated by the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC) and the Ohio Revised Code. Ohio's workers' compensation system provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. The purpose of workers' compensation is to compensate employees for the loss of wages and medical expenses resulting from the work-related injury or illness. Below are some of the laws and regulations related to Ohio workers' compensation:
Eligibility
All employers in Ohio are required to provide workers' compensation coverage for their employees, with certain exceptions such as self-employed individuals and some types of agricultural workers. All employees who are injured or become ill due to their work are eligible for workers' compensation benefits. However, employees who are injured while committing crimes, violating company policies, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of their injury may be ineligible for benefits.
Benefits
Workers' compensation benefits in Ohio include medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. Medical expenses include all reasonable and necessary medical treatment, such as doctor's appointments, hospitalization, and physical therapy. Lost wages benefits are calculated based on the employee's average weekly wages and the severity of the injury or illness. Disability benefits are paid to employees who have suffered a permanent impairment due to their work-related injury or illness.
Claims process
The claims process for workers' compensation in Ohio involves several steps. An injured worker must report the injury or illness to their employer within 24 hours of the incident if possible. Then, the employer must file a First Report of Injury with the BWC within seven days. The BWC will evaluate the claim and either approve or deny it within 28 days. If the claim is approved, benefits will be paid to the employee.
Time limits
In Ohio, there are strict time limits for filing workers' compensation claims. Injured workers must file a claim within one year of the date of the injury or illness, or within one year of the last date of medical treatment received for the injury or illness. Failure to file a claim within these time limits may result in a denial of benefits.
Limitations and exceptions
There are some limitations and exceptions to workers' compensation benefits in Ohio. For example, there are caps on the amount of compensation that can be paid for certain types of injuries. Additionally, employees who have suffered injuries due to intentional acts by their employer may be eligible for additional damages beyond workers' compensation benefits.
If you have been injured or become ill due to your work in Ohio, it is important to understand your rights and seek legal advice if necessary. An experienced workers' compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process and maximize your benefits.
