Bernard C. Fox Workers Compensation Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Understanding Workers' Compensation Laws in Cincinnati

Workers’ compensation laws in Cincinnati can be complex and are subject to amendment at any time. For this reason, it is important to contact an attorney to understand current workers’ compensation laws.

Every year, employees are affected by workplace injuries in the United States, which have cost companies billions of dollars. In Cincinnati, the waiting period for workers’ comp benefits after an injury usually takes seven days. Compensation is retroactive if the disability continues for two weeks after the date of the injury. Attorney fees vary depending on an individual’s case.

Workers’ comp can be considered a legal compromise between employees requiring medical treatment and their employees preventing costly lawsuits from occurring. These laws rely on a “no fault” rule that provides benefits for injured workers, regardless of who is responsible for the injury. Workers’ compensation laws in Cincinnati require employers to purchase workers’ comp insurance to cover potential medical expenses and lost wages of their employees.

There are different state rules regarding how much coverage an employer must buy, what percentage of an injured employee's wages the employer must pay if they are unable to work, and how long an employer must cover an injured employee. Some (but not all) policies include liability insurance that protects employers against lawsuits related to a workplace death or injury. Almost any kind of physical injury or disability is covered under these laws. An injury acquired prior to employment does not qualify, unless it was aggravated due to the current job.

Different amounts will be awarded to workers depending on their specific injuries. Workers’ compensation laws require not only the payment of medical bills for a work-related injury, but also pay for at least part of the wages you have lost and will lose due to your injury. After a workplace injury, you should report it to your employer as soon as possible. In most cases, a verbal report is all that needs to be made. Appropriate medical treatment will be made following an injury report. Under workers’ comp laws, most benefits that a worker may receive will not be taxed. If you and your employer cannot reach an appropriate settlement, workers’ compensation laws can provide a hearing; you should be represented by a workers’ comp attorney during this time.

If you need assistance from a workers' compensation lawyer in the Cincinnati area contact the law firm of Fox & Fox via our email form of call 1-877-545-2113.