After An On-The-Job Injury, Seek Help From A Trusted Cleveland Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Ohio requires every business, regardless of size, to have workers’ compensation insurance to protect employees who suffer an illness or injury while at work. Unfortunately, many people don’t know their rights or understand the application and appeals processes, leaving them frustrated and unable to get the compensation they rightly deserve. That’s why having an experienced, knowledgeable lawyer on your side is so important.
At Tayfel & Associates, LLC, we have successfully handled thousands of Ohio workers’ compensation claims. We will work with your doctors to provide us with the evidence that we need to give you the best chance for success with all contested aspects of your claim. We file the required paperwork, meet all deadlines and fight to make sure you receive the maximum of what is owed to you under the law.
No Matter How You Were Injured, We Are Your Advocates
Our attorney has been assisting injured Ohio workers since 2008. He has in-depth knowledge of the law and can help you seek benefits for nearly any type of workplace accident or injury. Common examples of workplace injuries include:
- Neck and back injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Injuries involving the brain, spine or neurological system
- Exposure to carcinogenic toxins
- Burns
- Hearing loss due to exposure to loud machinery
- Respiratory problems
- Tendonitis and other orthopedic injuries
- Exposure to asbestos
- Psychological injuries stemming from physical injuries
You may be eligible for benefits regardless of whether your injuries stem from a one-time accident, repeated exposure or cumulative stress and strain.
Answers To Common Questions Asked By Injured Workers
Below, we’ve provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Ohio workers’ compensation benefits.
My employer said I don’t need to file a claim. Is that right?
No. This is not accurate. An injured worker must file a claim within one year of the injury occurring or within two years of an occupational disease being diagnosed or be forever barred from the benefits afforded to injured workers. Obviously, the sooner an injured worker notifies an employer and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation of their injury the better.
How much will it cost me to hire an attorney?
At Tayfel & Associates, LLC, we use a contingency fee arrangement so there are no fees earned if we don’t help you claim compensation. The only exception is if the issue we are handling is a money issue such as lost wages or benefits that result from an impairment assessment.
Can I see my own doctor?
Yes. You may see a physician of your choice who is certified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to oversee workers’ compensation injuries. This physician will become the Physician of Record and may refer you to consultations or specialists as needed.
When will I be paid for my time missed from work?
Temporary Total Disability is paid when an injured worker is temporarily and totally unable to do any work whatsoever. It will be paid once the claim is approved and once any applicable appeal periods have lapsed. Let us know your specific situation, and we can assist you in better calculating when your benefits will be paid.
Can I be terminated for filing a workers’ compensation claim?
No. Ohio Law prohibits an employer from retaliating against an employee who files a claim for benefits related to a work injury. If you have been subject to retaliation up to and including termination, we will investigate and advise you of your next steps.
Do I have to tell my supervisor about my medical care?
No, you do not need to go into great detail or overshare with your employer about your medical care. You will want to follow the protocols of your employer to keep them informed of your ability or inability to work.
How long is my employer required to keep my job available?
Your employer is required to treat all injured employees the same. Sometimes that is made easier by the terms of a contract for employment or collective bargaining agreement. Most often, your Human Resources department or Union Steward will be able to inform you how long you may be away from your position when injured and still return to that same position within the company.
What if I am physically unable to do my job anymore?
If you and your physician are discussing the possibility of permanent restrictions after your injury, we will want to explore whether Vocational Rehabilitation could assist in your return to gainful employment. If you cannot return to any work, you may be eligible for Permanent Total Disability and perhaps Social Security Disability benefits.
Why do you need my pay stubs and W2s or 1099s and tax returns?
Unless set by statute, all workers’ compensation payments to injured workers are paid at a percentage of gross wages received before the injury. We will want to ensure that all applicable wages and any extenuating circumstances are accounted for to ensure that the rate of payment of those benefits is made at the highest dollar amount allowable.
Why am I receiving medical bills?
Medical providers will bill injured workers when they do not know the appropriate self-insured employer or Managed Care Organization to bill or on occasion until their bill is paid. Often times a telephone call to the billing company with your claim number and appropriate billing information will resolve the matter. If not, we will assist you and your medical providers in obtaining payment for services pre-approved and rendered.
I self-paid for my prescriptions. How can I be reimbursed?
While it is best to let your pharmacist bill prescriptions to your workers’ compensation claim there are situations when that is not possible. In such situations, you have one year from the date of purchase to seek reimbursement with the submission of the appropriate paperwork.
Learn More About How We Can Help During A Free Initial Consultation
From our office in Cleveland, Tayfel & Associates serves clients throughout northeast Ohio. To get answers to your questions from a knowledgeable Cleveland workers’ compensation lawyer, contact us to schedule a free consultation. Just call 216-545-9274 or reach out online.