Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Ashtabula, OH

Reliable Workers’ Compensation Attorneys in Ashtabula, Ohio

When you sustain an injury while on the job in Ohio, you have the right to seek workers’ compensation. Filing a claim is complex, so hire a workers’ compensation attorney to do the hard work for you.

Denman & Lerner Co., L.P.A. has the leading workers’ compensation attorneys in Ashtabula, OH. We know both sides of workers’ comp laws and can help you navigate the legal landscape to seek compensation.

Ohio Workers’ Comp Laws

The BWC is notorious for denying workers’ comp claims, so an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can employ several strategies to increase the chance of a satisfactory resolution.

To receive workers’ compensation in Ohio, you must:

● Be a full-time employee
● Have a documented medical diagnosis
● Show that the injury occurred while performing work duties

Employers often fight employees over workers’ compensation claims. Your employer might claim that you are an independent contractor and not an employee. In Ohio, independent contractors are not eligible for workers’ compensation. So, make sure to receive proper employment documentation.

Additionally, you will need a diagnosis from a medical professional. If you present a claim and do not have official medical documentation about your condition, the BWC will likely deny your claim.

What is a Work-Related Injury?

Common workplace injuries we deal with in Ohio include:

● Torn muscles/ligaments
● Broken bones
● Herniated discs from lifting
● Toxin exposures
● Stress injuries
● Burns
● Concussions or traumatic brain injuries
● Wrongful deaths
● Car accidents

It may be difficult to demonstrate that your condition is the result of a workplace injury. A workers’ compensation attorney can gather medical professional documentation and witness testimony to present a strong case to the court.

Common Reasons for Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims

In 2018, the BWC denied approximately 12% (1 out of 8) of all injured workers’ claims. Additionally, employers will strongly fight against claims because they can hurt their bottom line. Workers’ compensation attorneys in Ashtabula, Ohio, can help reduce the chances of a denial.

Here are some common reasons that the BWC denies workers’ comp claims:

Filed Too Late
In Ohio, the statute of limitation on workers’ compensation claims is one year. So, if you wait longer than a year after the injury occurred, you won’t be able to make a claim. Therefore, it is important to start the process as quickly as possible to avoid running out of time to make a claim.

Employer Challenges Accident
Your employer may also claim that the injury either did not occur at work or was not a result of you performing your job duties. Your attorney can find witnesses and other evidence such as video footage to back up your claim.

Lack of Medical Records
Another common reason to deny a claim is a lack of medical records. If you do not retrieve the necessary medical records, you will be ineligible to file a claim. It is important to receive medical attention, even if the injury is relatively minor.

Employment Status Dispute
Lastly, your employer may try to fight your case by claiming you are not an employee. Your attorney will work with you to find the correct documentation, such as contracts or pay stubs, to demonstrate your employment status to the court.

Can I Appeal a Denied Claim?

Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Ashtabula, Ohio, Today!

Contact the law firm of Denman & Lerner Co., L.P.A. online, or call us today at 440-951-6666 to schedule a free case consultation!

Free Workers' Compensation Consultation

Our Workers' Comp Law Firm proudly represents cases across Northeast Ohio:

• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Mentor, OH
• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Painesville, OH
• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Willoughby, OH
• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Eastlake, OH
• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Chardon, OH
• Workers' Compensation Attorneys in Ashtabula, OH
• and all others across Northeast Ohio!