Injured workers don’t realize that in an Ohio BWC claim, a person, for all OhioBWC claims that person might have, can only obtain a maximum of 100% permanent partial disability (PPD) over all claims. What does this mean? Read on.Here’s an example – a person has a claim from 1994 that is still open. He/she seeks an increase to the prior PPD award. This award, if increased, can only pay a maximum of $160.67 per week – therefore if a 1% increase is granted, the injured worker will receive 2 weeks of compensation at $160.67/wk, totaling $321.34.
Now if that same person has a 2011 OhioBWC claim, the max PPD rate is $261.00/wk. Thus, the same 1% PPD award is worth $522.00. This is a difference of $200.66.
If you earned low income in the year of one injury and higher income in the year of your other BWC claim, it can make a significant difference in terms of what you decide to do in your OhioBWC claim, depending on the unique circumstance(s) of your claim(s). In order to fully protect your OhioBWC interests, you should consult with a Board Certified Ohio Workers’ Compensation Specialist Attorney.
Understanding your rights and being fully informed as to the benefits to which you are entitled is critically important. Contact Mike Gruhin by phone or email to discuss your Ohio Workers’ Compensation claim. You need a Certified Specialist on your side. And remember, there are time limits involved in all Ohio work comp claims. Don’t miss out on your benefits.