Workers have rights in Ohio, particularly if they have been injured on the job. Employers must follow the law and provide safe working conditions for all of their employees. Even if employers have a safe work environment and safety protocols in place, accidents can still happen. Everyone who has been hurt on the job is allowed to file for workers’ compensation which covers their medical expenses and monetary losses during the time that they are unable to work. However, many people are too afraid of their employers to file a claim.
Go to a Doctor and Then File a Claim
If you are injured at work, the first thing that you need to do is see a doctor. The physician will diagnose your injury and recommend a course of treatment. They will also ask you if you were hurt on the job. By answering yes, you’re taking the first steps toward filing a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer should have special insurance to cover these claims, aptly known as Workers’ Compensation Insurance. Once you file a claim, you are protected by the law.
What to Do If Your Employer Retaliates
According to the laws in the state of Ohio, it is illegal for your employer to retaliate against you for filing a worker’s compensation claim. They cannot harass you, threaten you, or intimidate you in any way. If they do, gather all of the evidence you can, including threats made in writing and if possible recorded verbal harassment, and contact an experienced attorney. You may even have witnesses such as your coworkers, who overheard the threats. They may choose to stand by your side as well.
The one thing you should not do is wait until you are no longer working for your employer. Waiting until after they’ve let you go for getting injured on the job can making filing a workers’ comp claim much tougher.
It is Illegal to be Discharged for Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim
The state of Ohio and the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation have protections in place for employees who get hurt on the job. If you are fired, laid off, or have your hours or pay reduced due to your injury, your employer may end up in legal trouble, as the law is on your side. They cannot punish you for getting hurt. You just need an experienced attorney to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Contact me. It’s my job and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
DISCLAIMER “Please understand the slogan, I’ll Make Them Pay!® is not a guarantee of payment. Both liability and real damages must be proven with a preponderance of the evidence.”