Workers compensation, in simple terms, is a type of insurance that provides medical benefits and wage loss compensation to workers when incidental injuries or illnesses occur on the job.
Workers compensation insurance varies by state, but typically each state offers some form of workers’ coverage to ensure any injuries or illnesses can be covered.
In the state of Ohio, the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation was founded over 100 years ago. There have been changes, additions, and even errors in the system, but the Bureau is who provides the insurance coverage.
Who pays for workers compensation insurance?
Ohio employers are required to provide workers compensation insurance and ensure safety precaution measures have been taken for their employees in the workplace. But how and where does the funding for coverage come from?
Payment to cover an injured worker’s medical and loss of wages will depend on the employer:
- If the employer is self-insured, WC benefits will be paid directly to the employees
- If the employer is not self-insured, they will pay premiums or payments to the Bureau of Workers Compensation
If I’m injured on the job, does my employer need to file a claim or can I?
If hurt at work, the worker should immediately report the injury to your employer, supervisor, manager, etc. You must complete the “First Report of an Injury, Occupational Disease, or Death” form—also known as FROI—to file it with the Ohio BWC. You can find this form at bwc.ohio.gov
You or your employer can complete and submit this form.
Is there a statute for filing Workers Compensation?
Yes, the state of Ohio does have a statute for filing WC claims.
According to the Ohio BWC, any work-related injury or occupational disease must be reported within two years after the following scenarios:
- The disability caused by disease began
- 6 months after the date of diagnosis by a physician
- 2 years after a death due to the disease
If you or a loved one has questions regarding a work comp claim, do not hesitate to call me. The process can be complex and an experience attorney and team can make all the difference.
As your Ohio workplace accident attorney, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over four decades, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus, Dayton and neighboring communities.” You can reach Tim by email at misnylaw.com/ask-tim-a-question/ or call at 1 (800) 556-4769.
