How Do I Know Which Workers’ Comp Benefits I’m Eligible For?

You’ve probably seen a poster advertising workers’ compensation insurance in your employee breakroom, or near the time clock. You know that your employer provides workers’ compensation insurance. But what, exactly, does it cover? If you’re unsure about the workers’ compensation benefits available to you, it may be a good idea to talk to an Ohio workers’ comp lawyer.

Our Ohio workers’ compensation lawyers at Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk & Wright Co. LPA can provide guidance and answer questions when you’ve been hurt at work and don’t know what benefits you can receive. To speak to one of our experienced lawyers today, contact us at (419) 625-7770 to set up a free case assessment.

What Happens When I’m Injured at Work?

While many employees suffer superficial injuries that allow them to return to work within a week, some are not so lucky. If your injuries are keeping you away from work for a considerable period, you will likely be eligible for temporary total disability benefits. Temporary total (TT) benefits are awarded to employees who are restricted from working for a period of time but should eventually be able to go back to work. TT benefits can end for many reasons, such as:

  • The employee returns to work.
  • The employee’s physician permits the employee to return to work.
  • The employee’s physician indicates that the employee has reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI).

An employee has reached MMI if their condition has stabilized to the point where the physician believes they will not achieve any further improvements.

Are There Benefits Available if I no Longer Qualify for TT?

If your TT benefits have ended because you can go back to work, there won’t be any other benefits available; you will go back to earning regular wages. If, however, you’ve reached MMI, you likely cannot return to work. In this scenario, you can apply for either Permanent Partial Loss or Permanent Total Disability.

  • Permanent Partial Loss: Employees who have suffered a Permanent Partial (PP) loss have had an injury that will affect them forever but may not necessarily stop them from pursuing any employment. Examples of PP losses include an amputated finger or significant hearing loss.
  • Permanent Total Disability: Permanent Total Disability is an award available to employees who have suffered a work-related injury that has left them unable to work at any job for the remainder of their lives.

If you believe that you qualify for PP or PTD, you should reach out to an Ohio workers’ comp attorney right away.

Are There Any Other Benefits Covered by My Workers’ Compensation Insurance?

Benefits such as TT, PP, and PTD are some common awards generally available to all employees. But, there are different benefits available for specific scenarios. For example:

  • Wage Loss: This covers employees who have taken a new position with their company that pays less than what they were earning before they were injured.
  • Facial Disfigurement: This provides a payment to employees whose injury led to a significant facial disfigurement that may make it difficult for them to find work.
  • Change of Occupation: This allows compensation for employees in certain jobs, such as coal mining or firefighting, who have been medically advised to switch their career.

These examples cover just a few incidents. The BWC’s website includes many more.

Having Trouble Figuring Out Your Benefits? Talk to an Ohio Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workers’ compensation benefits provide peace of mind, but they can be confusing and difficult to navigate. If you’ve been hurt and want to understand what benefits are available to you, call an Ohio workers’ comp lawyer at Kademenos, Wisehart, Hines, Dolyk & Wright Co. LPA. We have experience helping employees figure out their benefits, and we can provide guidance when filling out the forms and determining what else you need to do. Contact us today at (419) 625-7770 to schedule a free consultation of your case.