If you’ve suffered a workplace injury in Norwalk, OH, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, securing the compensation you deserve isn’t always easy. An experienced Norwalk workers’ compensation lawyer at Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers can help you navigate the process and fight for the financial support you need.
With over 180 years of combined legal experience and more than $100 million recovered for our clients, our firm has a proven track record of success. If you’re struggling with a work-related injury or illness, don’t face the insurance companies alone.
Contact our law offices in Norwalk or call us at (419) 863-5922 to schedule a free consultation today.
How Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers Can Help with Your Norwalk Workers’ Compensation Claim
Workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial support to injured workers. Unfortunately, the process is often complicated, and having a lawyer by your side can let the insurance company know that you’re serious.
Our experienced Norwalk personal injury attorneys can help you maximize your benefits by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation to collect all necessary evidence
- Challenging unfair medical assessments by requesting independent evaluations
- Handling all paperwork and complying with filing deadlines
- Representing you in hearings and appeals
- Negotiating with insurance companies for the maximum compensation possible
- Assessing whether you may be entitled to damages in a personal injury lawsuit
Don’t let the insurance company undervalue your claim. Call Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers in Norwalk, OH, to discuss your options with a dedicated Norwalk workers’ compensation attorney.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Ohio
Most Ohio employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance.
If you were injured at work, you should be entitled to benefits as long as:
- You are classified as an employee
- Your injury or illness occurred while performing work-related duties
- Your injury was unintentional and unrelated to intoxication
Since workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, you don’t need to prove your employer was negligent to receive benefits.
What Happens If Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
Unfortunately, insurers often deny valid workers’ compensation claims.
Common reasons for claim denials include:
- Disputes over the severity of your injuries
- Your injury was unrelated to your job
- Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork
- Failure to seek treatment from an approved medical provider
If you’ve been denied workers’ compensation benefits, contact an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Norwalk for help.
What Benefits Does Workers’ Compensation Provide in Ohio?
Workers’ compensation in Ohio covers two primary areas: medical expenses and lost wages.
Medical Benefits
Workers’ comp should cover all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your injury, including:
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Doctor visits and follow-up care
- Prescription medications
- Rehabilitation services
- Medical devices and assistive equipment
- Travel costs for medical appointments
To qualify for coverage, you must seek treatment from a medical provider approved by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC), except in emergency situations.
Wage Replacement Benefits
If your injury prevents you from working, you may be entitled to wage replacement benefits.
The type of benefits you receive depends on the severity and duration of your disability:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits for lost wages while you recover from a temporary injury.
- Wage Loss (WL) benefits for workers who can return to work but earn less due to job restrictions.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits for workers who suffer a permanent impairment but can still work in some capacity.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits for workers who are permanently unable to work.
- Disfigurement benefits for permanent disfigurement.
- Vocational rehabilitation assistance for workers retraining for a new job.
- Death benefits for families of workers who suffer fatal workplace injuries.
In some cases, injured workers may be eligible for a lump sum settlement instead of ongoing payments. An attorney can help you evaluate whether a lump sum or ongoing benefits are the best option for your situation.
Can You Sue Your Employer for a Workplace Injury?
In exchange for no-fault benefits, Ohio’s workers’ compensation system restricts employees from suing their employers for workplace injuries.
However, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit if a third party was responsible for your accident, including:
- A negligent driver if you were injured in a work-related car accident
- A manufacturer of defective equipment that injured you
- A subcontractor or property owner that created unsafe conditions
A personal injury lawsuit may allow you to recover additional compensation that is limited or unavailable under workers’ compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Ohio?
Ohio law gives you one year from the date of your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, it’s best to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. Delays in reporting can make it easier for insurance companies to deny your claim.
Contact a Norwalk Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today for Help With Your Claim
Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be challenging, especially when you’re dealing with a serious injury. Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced Norwalk workers’ compensation attorneys will fight to protect your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Call our office today to schedule your free consultation. Let us handle your claim while you focus on your recovery.