Answering Your Questions About Workers’ Compensation

The process of applying for workers’ compensation benefits or appealing a decision is filled with complex procedures. Navigating the steps while also coping with a serious injury is incredibly stressful. Fortunately, the caring attorneys of Willis Spangler Starling are here to help you.

Every day, we work with people throughout Ohio who suffered serious accidents at work. Most people come to us with many questions. Here, we will answer a few of the questions that we hear most frequently.

  • 1. How do I apply for workers’ compensation benefits?

    There are several steps that you must complete to receive workers’ compensation benefits. To summarize them briefly:

    • Report your injury to your employer.
    • Document the ways in which your injury affects your life and career.
    • Work with an attorney to communicate with your employer and their insurer.
    • Work with an attorney to appeal a denied claim.
  • 2. What is the statute of limitations to file a claim?

    In Ohio, you have up to one year within the date of the workplace accident to file a workers’ compensation claim. If you have suffered an occupational disease, you have up to two years to file a claim.

  • 3. How long does it take to get benefits?

    There is no standard amount of time for an insurance company to issue a decision regarding a case. However, most workers receive a decision 14 to 30 days after their employer submits the claim. In some instances, it can take months to recover the maximum compensation to which you are entitled.

  • 4. How much money will I receive?

    There is no simple way to determine how much compensation you will receive. When you meet face to face with one of our attorneys in a free initial consultation, we can give you a better idea of the amount of compensation you deserve.

  • 5. My claim was denied. What do I do now?

    You have the right to file an appeal if the insurance company denied your claim. You can file an appeal with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. You should work with an experienced lawyer who can help you with this step and can represent you at your hearing.

  • 6. Do I really need to hire a lawyer?

    Some people choose not to work with an attorney on their claim. However, this is not necessarily wise. Employers and insurance companies have much more experience in the workers’ comp laws than the average worker. An attorney will protect your rights, ensure that you do not miss any deadlines, ensure that you complete the administrative steps correctly and help you recover the maximum amount of benefits available to you.

Answer More Questions And Get Help

At Willis Spangler Starling, our team members in Columbus are prepared to answer any more questions you have, address your concerns and evaluate your case. To schedule a free initial consultation, call us at 614-586-7900 or contact the law firm online. We have the answers that you need.