The Workers' Compensation System in Ohio: How Does It Work?

What is the workers' compensation system in Ohio?

Workers’ compensation is a benefits system that comes into play when you are injured at work. The Ohio workers’ compensation system has two primary goals.

1. Payment for medical treatment

Workers’ compensation benefits can cover all medical expenses related to the work injury. These costs can include doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, surgeries, physical therapy, pain management, rehabilitation, home and vehicle modifications, and more. Also, there are no deductibles or copays for treatment related to a work injury and claim. Furthermore, the injured worker cannot be billed for any balances on his medical accounts.

2. Wage replacement

When the injury forces the employee to miss work, they are entitled to compensation for lost wages. If you have been injured at work, be sure your rights are protected. Hiring an experienced Ohio workers’ compensation attorney is the best step to ensure you are protecting yourself and your rights under Ohio’s workers’ compensation system.

Who qualifies for workers' compensation in Ohio?

Every worker has the right to work in a safe environment. Ohio’s state laws mandate that all employers must carry a workers’ compensation policy to cover situations in which a worker is injured while working (with a few exceptions). Some of these exceptions include situations in which individuals are self-employed or independent contractors.

In addition, the workers’ compensation laws do not cover injuries sustained at work in specific fact patterns or circumstances, including fights, violations of a company policy, violations of local, state, or federal law, working under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or self-inflicting an injury.

Please contact the workers’ compensation attorneys at our office to discuss the facts of your case and whether you qualify for workers' compensation benefits.