Follow These Tips From an Ohio Workers' Compensation Lawyer So You Don't Make Costly Mistakes
Were you injured on the job? Filing a workers' comp claim can be a turning point in your recovery journey. But beware—common pitfalls could jeopardize your claim and leave you without the support you need. Ohio workers’ compensation attorney Jim Monast explains the top mistakes to avoid when filing for workers' compensation in Ohio, ensuring you can confidently navigate this crucial process.
6 Workers’ Compensation Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s face it: after a workplace injury or illness, circumstances aren’t “normal.” It’s more challenging to go through your days as you did before, so it’s no wonder that filing an injury claim seems complicated. But if you don’t make any of the mistakes below, you improve the chances of receiving the workers’ comp benefits you deserve.
1. Not Immediately Reporting Your Injury
Avoid this mistake by informing your supervisor or human resources department as soon as the incident occurs, even if it first seems minor. Remember to write down all the details of how, when, and where the injury happened while your memory remains fresh. Reporting it right away helps connect your health condition to your job and starts the claims process more quickly, speeding up your access to medical care and benefits.
2. Skipping Medical Attention
Some people might downplay their injury or illness or hope it improves on its own, but this line of thinking risks your health and workers' compensation claim. To protect your health and benefits:
- Get care promptly. Visit a doctor or emergency room as soon as possible to ensure your well-being and to create an official record of your injury.
- Be thorough. Describe all symptoms to your healthcare provider, no matter how minor they seem.
- Follow-up. Attend all recommended follow-up medical appointments and treatments.
3. Neglecting to File a First Report of Injury (FROI)
In Ohio, filing a First Report of Injury (FROI) is critical in the workers' compensation process. This form officially starts your claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC). Failing to file this report might result in delayed benefits or claim denial. We recommend that you:
- Act quickly. File the FROI as soon as possible after your injury.
- Be accurate. Provide detailed and truthful information about your injury and how it occurred.
- Seek assistance. If unsure about the process, consider consulting with an Ohio workers' compensation attorney for guidance.
4. Failing to Keep Accurate Records
It might seem tedious at first, but your detailed records are crucial for a successful workers' compensation claim. Unfortunately, many people overlook this essential step in the claims process. Your benefits could suffer without proper documentation of your injury, treatments, and related expenses. Some tips for keeping accurate records include:
- Keep a journal. Document your symptoms, medical appointments, and how the injury or illness affects your daily life.
- Save all paperwork. Keep copies of medical bills, prescriptions, and any correspondence related to your claim.
- Track expenses. Keep receipts for out-of-pocket costs, such as travel to medical appointments or buying medical supplies.
5. Trying to Handle the Claim Alone
While managing a workers' compensation claim on your own is possible, it’s risky. Many injured workers miss out on the benefits they deserve simply because they don’t have the proper guidance. Working with a workers' compensation attorney at Monast Law Office protects your rights and lays the groundwork for the benefits you deserve for lost income and medical expenses.
We take great pride in helping our clients through this difficult time. As noted by our client Leslie, “These skilled professionals at Monast Law Office work hard on behalf of the injured workers that seek their help, myself included. I feel blessed to have found them in my greatest hours of need. They have navigated the entire legal course of action on my behalf so that I can focus solely on trying to heal. I highly recommend Monast Law Office to anyone seeking legal help due to a work injury.”
6. Signing Documents Without Understanding
You may be asked to sign certain documents after a work-related injury. A typical workers’ comp mistake is doing this without fully understanding their contents or implications. Signing in haste may lead to unintended consequences, such as waiving your rights to certain benefits or agreeing to unfavorable terms.
When facing mounting medical expenses and the sting of lost wages while you recover, it’s tempting to accept the first offer that comes your way. But remember: a fair settlement should account for all your current and future medical expenses and any ongoing disability or reduced earning capacity.
If something is unclear, please ask for clarification. When you partner with us, we’ll ensure you understand the detailed paperwork involved in a workers’ comp claim and give you thoughtful advice to make sound decisions about your future.
