Our Ohio Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Help Injured Coffee Shop Employees Recover Compensation
You're hustling through a busy shift at your coffee shop, arms full of trays with steaming hot lattes and iced mochas. Suddenly, you hit a slick spot on the floor and fall. In an instant, everything changes. What do you do next? Monast Law Office is here to help you understand your rights under Ohio workers' compensation if you’ve had a slip and fall accident at work.
Common Causes of Slip and Falls in Coffee Shops
Working in a coffee shop is fast-paced, and spills are just part of the job. But that also means the risk of slipping is always there. Hazards are everywhere, from freshly mopped floors to spilled drinks and even rain-soaked entrances.
Common dangers that can lead to a slip-and-fall accident include:
- Wet floors from coffee or beverage spills or mopping
- Rain or snow tracked in by customers
- Loose or curled-up floor mats
- Dim lighting in certain areas
Types of Coffee Shop Slip and Fall Injuries
A slip and fall might sound minor, but it can lead to serious injuries. Knowing what to watch out for can help you get the care you need.
Common injuries that can result from a slip and fall accident in a coffee shop are:
- Sprains and strains
- Broken bones, especially wrists or ankles
- Back injuries
- Head injuries, like concussions
- Cuts and bruises
- Burns from hot beverages
Even if you feel okay after a fall, some injuries take time to show up. It’s always a good idea to get checked out by a doctor.
Understand Your Rights as an Injured Worker in Ohio
In Ohio, workers’ compensation is available to help you if you get hurt on the job. Workers’ compensation benefits include:
- Coverage for your medical bills
- Payment for lost wages while you recover
- Benefits if your injury causes a long-term disability
If you are injured in a coffee shop slip and fall while working, there are specific steps to take.
1. Report the Accident Right Away
Tell your boss or manager right away if you slip and fall at work. Be sure to report as many details as possible, including the following:
- Date, time, and location of your fall
- A description of how it happened
- What parts of your body were hurt
- Names of any coworkers who saw it happen
You will want to keep a copy of your report for your records.
2. Seek Medical Attention ASAP
Your health should be your top priority after a fall. Even if you think your injuries are minor, get checked out by a doctor. Getting prompt medical care helps you heal and strengthens your workers’ comp claim.
3. File Your Workers' Comp Claim
In Ohio, you’ve got one year from the date of your injury to file a workers’ comp claim. But the sooner you do it, the better. Our Columbus workers’ compensation lawyer can help you file a claim to recover benefits.
The process for filing a claim includes:
- Filling out the First Report of Injury (FROI) form
- Sending the form to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC)
- Providing any other documents the BWC asks for
- Keeping copies of everything for your own records
And remember, you cannot be fired or mistreated just because you filed a claim.
4. Recover and Return to Work Safely
Talk to your doctor and boss about returning to work as you start feeling better. You might need to ease back into things or avoid specific tasks until you’re fully healed. It is essential to follow your doctor’s advice on what you can and can’t do at work. Be upfront with your boss about what you’re capable of, and know you can ask for accommodations if needed.
We Are Here to Help
Dealing with workers’ comp can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from an injury. But you need not do it alone. At Monast Law Office, we get what you’re going through and are ready to help you every step of the way. We’ll make sure you understand your rights and get the benefits you deserve.
As our case results and testimonials show, our Columbus workers’ compensation lawyer will fight for the rights of Ohio workers.
