Skip to Content
Call Us today! 937-403-9033
Top

Rights for Injured Workers in Ohio

|

Ohio workers have certain rights that are protected under the law. The right to fair treatment by Bureau of Workers' Compensation employees is only one of the benefits afforded to workers throughout the state. They are also entitled to prompt receipt of benefits without undue delays. The goal is to ensure that an individual injured at work will receive appropriate and coordinated care so that he or she may ultimately return to work and enjoy a high quality of life.

People are eligible to receive workers' compensation benefits if they sustain an injury while at work or contract an occupational disease as a direct result of theirjob. Workers may visit and receive care from their choice of health care providers without being forced to see a particular doctor by the BWC. Approved medical bills are to be timely paid, and records may be accessed online or by visiting the BWC in person.

Additionally, claimants may request an independent medical examination when necessary, and they should be considered for all rehabilitation services and benefits that they may be eligible for. Denials of claims may be appealed by going through the BWC, the managed care organization or the state Industrial Commission. The employee may represent him or herself, and each person has the right to choose their own lawyer at their expense.

In the case of workers' compensation claims, it is advisable to work with an attorney from the initial filing. The attorney can review information to ensure that all details are in order and minimize unnecessary delays. If a case is denied, then it may be necessary to file an appeal of the decision. An attorney can provide assistance with all of these tasks and strive to help clients get the coverage and compensation they require.

Source: bwc.ohio.gov, "Injured workers' rights", October 18, 2014

Categories: