OHIO WORKER'S COMPENSATION INFORMATION

Ohio's Worker's Compensation laws provide a system of compensation for any employee who has been injured in the course of their employment, or suffers from an occupational disease developed in the course of their employment.  The system also provides compensation to family members if an employee is killed do to a job related activity.

Almost every employee, with extremely limited religious exemptions, and all employers must participate in the Ohio Worker's Compensation system.  Most employers participate in the State Insurance fund by paying premiums.  An employers premium is determined by several factors including the total amount of payroll, job classification (risk of injury), and risk history of the employer.  Certain large employers, with specific qualifications, may insure themselves, but are responsible for compensating an employee if an job related injury, or occupational disease occurs.

If your are injured, or suffer an occupational disease as a result of any job related activity your may be entitled under the Ohio Worker's Compensation laws and regulations to any of several forms of compensation.  These include:

• Medical Bills - All medical costs resulting from a qualified injury will be paid. 
• Wage Loss - A portion of any lost wages, or reduction in wages may be compensated.
• Disability - An employee may be compensated for any permanent physically disability resulting from a qualified injury or occupational disease.

Although you do not need to be represented by legal counsel in order to receive your benefits, it is highly recommended.  The Ohio worker's Compensation system is quite technical and many procedures must be followed in order to recover your maximum benefits.  In order to prevail on a claim, an employee must fill out several forms correctly, file them in the appropriate locations, provide wage and job ascription information when requested, attend hearings as instructed, and attend medical examinations when required.  Failure to complete any of these obligations may result in the denial of your claim, and leave you uncompensated for a legitimate work related injury or occupational disease. 

My primary goal is to develop a long term relationship with my clients so that I can help resolve any legal situations that may arise.

Harry Bernstein has been practicing law as an in house counsel as well as with an independent law firm for over 19 years.

If you feel that you can use any of my legal services, I would be happy to meet with you for a no fee initial consultation in our downtown offices or in the comfort of your own home.  Please feel free to contact me at any time to discuss your legal needs.  Please click here for my contact information.