Questions about Ohio Workers’ Comp – Ohio Job Injury?

Q: What on the job injuries does workers’ compensation cover?A: Under R.C. 4123.01(C), Ohio law covers any injury received in the course of, and arising out of, your employment. Per bwc.ohio.gov, this specifically includes:

• Physical Injuries: Sudden accidents like fractures, sprains, or burns.
• Occupational Diseases: Conditions resulting from unique workplace hazards (like chemical exposure).
• Substantial Aggravation: Pre-existing injuries that were substantially aggravated by a work accident.
• Psychological Conditions: Mental health issues arising from an allowed physical injury.

Q: Who pays my workers’ compensation benefits?

A: Ohio law requires that virtually all employers purchase insurance from the state fund or insure themselves. If your employer is “non-complying” and does not have BWC coverage, the BWC will still pay your allowed benefits. However, the BWC will then pursue the non-complying employer to recover those costs “dollar for dollar” plus penalties. Whether your employer is state-funded, self-insured, or non-complying, you are entitled to your benefits.

Q: How long will it take to get benefits?

A: Per bwc.ohio.gov and R.C. 4123.511, the BWC has 28 days from the filing of a claim to issue an initial decision. If the claim is allowed, the employer has 14 days to appeal. If an appeal is filed, the Industrial Commission must hold a hearing within 45 days. Having an experienced Board Certified Specialist on your side ensures that all paperwork, including the C-9 Form, is filed correctly to prevent unnecessary delays.

Q: Do I have to go back to work before I am ready?

A: Ultimately, your doctor’s advice determines when you are ready. You are free to treat with any Ohio BWC Certified Provider. While you are unable to work, you are entitled to receive compensation. Check out our pages on TTD benefits and Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) to understand how your benefits are maintained. Be aware that the Industrial Commission can find that you have reached MMI, even if you feel unready to return to your job.

Q: Do I have to file my workers’ compensation claim within a certain time limit?

A: Yes. Under current law, there is a one-year statute of limitations for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you do not file your claim within one year of your injury, you will be permanently barred from seeking compensation. Please note that different time limits apply to occupational disease and death claims. Move quickly to seek representation and protect your rights.

Q: The BWC denied my workers’ compensation claim. Is there anything I can do?

A: Call Mike Gruhin, Board Certified Ohio Workers’ Compensation Specialist Attorney. You need a specialist in your corner to appeal your claim and attend the hearing at the Ohio Industrial Commission. Don’t make the mistake of hiring just any lawyer; you need a professional to gather and present the evidence necessary to prove you deserve compensation.

This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Form links connect directly to official Ohio BWC assets.