Work Injury Guidelines
What to do when you've had an Ohio work injury

Too often, injured workers find their workers’ compensation claim becomes bogged down because they
are unfamiliar with the system and how it works.  As a result they become frustrated as it takes more time
to straighten out the issues in order that appropriate treatment can be provided and compensation can be
paid.  The purpose of this article is to provide some tips in order to start the claim on the right track.

DO:
1.        As long as your medical condition permits, report the accident, in writing, immediately to your
supervisor.   The facts and circumstances should be clearly identified.

2.        Get a copy of the incident/accident report.  This is important evidence you need, particularly should the
employer’s copy of the report become lost or misfiled.

3.        Seek medical treatment as soon as possible.

4.        Tell the hospital, treating physician, or other medical specialist, exactly how the accident at work
happened.   Too often, problems occur with establishing a claim because injured workers don’t give the doctor
all the information about how the injury occurred.

5.        If you were injured by a machine or piece of equipment, write down the manufacturers’ name, address,
model and serial number of the machine.

6.        Consult a lawyer sooner rather than later.  Employers have attorneys and/or actuarial companies to
help them defend and process workers’ compensation claims.  An attorney experienced in workers’
compensation can help you by making certain all appropriate documentation is submitted so the process can
go as smoothly as possible.  There may also be benefits and compensation you are entitled to apply for,
which the employer and BWC do not tell you about.  An attorney representing you, can look out for your best
interests.

DON’T:
1.        Delay in reporting the injury to your employer.  Obviously your medical condition is the utmost priority,
and if there is a need for emergency care, seek treatment first.  But be aware that delay in reporting is one of
the biggest reasons cited by employers for contesting the initial allowance of claims.

2.        Delay in seeking medical treatment.  If you have an accident at work, it is important to document the
history of the injury as well as your medical condition with your doctor.  A delay in treatment can be used
against you and result in the denial of your claim.

3.        Be fooled into believing that your employer or the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation will represent you
in your claim.  Neither your employer nor the BWC will represent you at a hearing.  Very often, the
unrepresented injured worker will lose valuable rights.

4.        Sign medical releases until you have consulted with your lawyer.

5.        Be fooled into believing that you must treat with the “company doctor”.  You should report the injury to any
on-site medical facility, and the employer can send you to a facility of their choice for evaluation. However, you
are free to treat with any doctor of your choice.  Medical Doctors, Osteopathic Physicians and Chiropractors are
all recognized by the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation as qualified health care providers.

If you have questions regarding a new or existing Ohio workers’ compensation claim,
please feel free to contact our office.  Contact  Attorney Stephanie D. Horn at          
513-737-6164 for a no cost, no obligation appointment.                            
What to do when you've been injured at work
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3991 Hamilton Middletown Rd
Ste Q
Liberty Township, Ohio  45011
Phone:  513-737-6164
Fax:       513-737-2157
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