Workers' Compensation

When you are hurt on the job in Ohio, you are entitled to receive worker's compensation benefits.

The Ohio Worker's Compensation Act is a no-fault system which provides six main benefits to people who are injured on the job:

1.) Payment of Medical Expenses

2.) Temporary Total Disability Payments when you are unable to work

3.) Wage Loss and/or Vocational Rehabilitation when you cannot return to your former position of employment due to restrictions

4.) Permanent Partial Disability for permanency of your medical condition

5.) Permanent Total Disability if you can never return to employment

6.) Lump Sum Settlement for when you are interested in closing your claim

Melanie Miguel-Courtad has extensive experience in handling workers’ compensation claims.  Not only has she handled claims that are filed administratively before the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation but has tried several cases in Court to a jury trial.  She understands that Ohio Workers’ Compensation Laws can be confusing to individuals who have not been through the process before and even to those who have had several claims.  If you are injured on the job, she will set up a no- charge initial consultation.  You are asked to bring all information pertaining to your claim, including medical records, job description, pay stubs and accident reports when available.  If you have a valid claim, our office will file the claim with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and attend hearings if necessary on your behalf.  If your claim is denied and the evidence supports a work related injury, we may file an appeal to Court and request a trial by jury.  

There is no requirement that you obtain an attorney for representation.  Keep in mind the following in making your determination:

1. If you sustain an injury or occupational disease while working you should report the incident immediately, see a doctor and write down the names of all witnesses.  Although Workers’ Compensation is generally the only remedy available to an injured worker, there are some instances where you may have a claim against other persons or entities in addition to receiving Workers’ Compensation Benefits.

The time limit to file a workers’ compensation claim is usually 2 years from the date of injury.  If you fail to file your claim within the 2 years, the action will be forever barred.  The time limit to file an occupational disease (injuries that develop over time) claim varies.  It is important you contact an attorney immediately upon learning that a condition may be work related.

3. Other time limits apply to claims once filed.  Appeals and Objections must be made within specified periods of time.  Be certain to contact an experienced attorney if an order is issued on your claim.