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How Long Can You Be on Workers’ Comp in Ohio?

By Cleveland Personal Injury Attorney on December 20, 2024

A man on the ground injured on a construction site.

Workers’ compensation is a lifeline for injured employees since it provides critical support during recovery. But the duration of an employee’s compensation depends on the type of benefits they qualify for and their specific circumstances.

The workers’ compensation system in Ohio is managed by the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC), which oversees claims, benefits, and timelines. If you’ve experienced a workplace injury and need workers’ compensation, it’s important to understand these timeframes so you receive the compensation you deserve.

This blog outlines the types of benefits available, the factors influencing their duration, and the importance of seeking legal guidance for your claim.

What is Workers’ Compensation in Ohio?

Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated program designed to provide medical, wage loss, and rehabilitation benefits to injured employees. In Ohio, the program ensures injured workers receive necessary support without proving employer negligence.

The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) administers workers’ comp claims in the state. The BWC determines eligibility, manages medical benefits, and establishes the duration of benefits based on the nature of the injury and recovery process. Ohio law sets specific guidelines for administering these benefits, as outlined in Ohio Revised Code Section 4123.

Types of Benefits You Can Receive on Workers’ Comp in Ohio

Workers’ compensation in Ohio offers various benefits tailored to injured workers and their families’ unique needs. These benefits ensure financial and medical support during recovery and in cases of severe loss:

  • Medical benefits: Workers’ comp covers all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the injury, including doctor visits, surgeries, prescriptions, and physical therapy. For example, if you require surgery for a fractured arm sustained at work, the BWC will cover the procedure and follow-up care.
  • Wage loss benefits: Workers’ comp wage loss benefits replace a portion of your lost income. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits are calculated at 72% of your full weekly wage for the first 12 weeks, then adjusted to two-thirds of your average weekly wage, subject to state maximums.
  • Vocational rehabilitation: If you cannot return to your previous role, vocational rehabilitation services assist you in finding suitable employment. This includes job training and resume assistance, ensuring you remain employable despite physical restrictions.
  • Death benefits: For families who lose a loved one to a workplace accident, workers’ comp provides financial support, including burial expenses and weekly benefits for dependents.

Factors That Determine the Duration of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Ohio

To start, the nature of the injury is a major factor. Injuries are classified as temporary or permanent. For instance, a sprained ankle may require a few weeks of recovery, while a spinal cord injury could result in permanent disability. Additionally, the length and type of medical treatment and recovery time directly influence benefit duration. Comprehensive treatment plans, including surgery or extended therapy, often prolong eligibility for benefits.

Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are provided during your recovery and end when you can return to work or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI). On a similar note, permanent partial disability (PPD) and permanent total disability (PTD) benefits cover long-term conditions. For example, losing the use of a finger might qualify for PPD benefits, while paralysis would likely lead to PTD benefits.

How Long Can You Receive Temporary Total Disability (TTD) Benefits in Ohio?

TTD benefits last until you achieve maximum medical improvement (MMI). In Ohio, MMI signifies a point where your condition has stabilized and is unlikely to improve further with treatment. You can apply for an extension if your medical condition worsens after reaching MMI, but this requires updated medical documentation supporting the claim. Once you reach MMI, your eligibility for TTD benefits ends. At this point, the BWC may evaluate you for PPD benefits if you have a lasting impairment.

How Long Can You Receive Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Benefits in Ohio?

PPD benefits are for workers with permanent impairments that do not completely prevent employment. For example, if you suffer a 10% loss of hand function, PPD benefits would compensate for this lasting impact.

The duration is determined by your impairment rating, measured as a percentage. Each percentage point corresponds to two weeks of compensation. For instance, a 20% impairment qualifies for 40 weeks of benefits. While extensions are rare, they may be granted if additional medical evidence demonstrates further impairment.

How Long Can You Receive Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits in Ohio?

Permanent total disability Ohio benefits are for individuals permanently unable to work in any capacity due to a workplace injury or occupational disease. PTD benefits are paid for life. For example, a worker paralyzed in a construction accident would receive PTD benefits indefinitely, provided they meet eligibility criteria. However, eligibility hinges on factors like medical evaluations and vocational assessments. The BWC may also consider age, education, and work history.

Can You Return to Work While Receiving Workers’ Comp Benefits in Ohio?

Returning to light-duty work while recovering can reduce wage loss benefits but allow you to maintain some income. So your benefits will be adjusted based on your earnings. For example, if you earn 50% of your pre-injury wage, workers’ comp will compensate part of the remaining 50%. Additionally, programs offered by the BWC help injured workers transition back to suitable roles through training and job placement.

What Happens After Your Workers’ Comp Benefits End in Ohio?

If your condition worsens, you can request a re-evaluation to reopen your claim. This process may involve additional medical examinations and legal proceedings. However, if workers’ comp ends but you remain unable to work, consider applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Consulting an Ohio workers’ comp lawyer can help you explore all available options.

Can You Appeal a Workers’ Comp Decision in Ohio?

Workers’ comp denials or terminations can be appealed to the Industrial Commission of Ohio. The appeal involves submitting Form IC-12 and attending hearings. Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical evidence or missed deadlines. Thankfully, legal representation can strengthen your case by presenting compelling evidence and specialist testimony.

Why You Should Consult an Attorney for Your Workers’ Comp Case in Ohio

An experienced Ohio workers’ comp lawyer can ensure your claim is accurately filed, deadlines are met, and disputes are effectively handled. Further, attorneys help calculate fair compensation and address challenges like claim denials or low impairment ratings.

Take Action: Contact a Skilled Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Ohio

If you’re navigating a workers’ comp claim in Ohio, don’t face the process alone—our law firm can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Firm founder and lead attorney George Mineff, Jr., has decades of experience handling workers’ comp claim cases and can provide you with legal support.

Call George Mineff, Jr., Attorney at Law, today at (216) 621-3930 to schedule your consultation with our experienced Cleveland workers’ compensation lawyers.

“George and his son Nick are exceptional attorneys. I can't express in words how much gratitude I have for their patience and compassion…”
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