The Cochran Firm In Cincinnati, Ohio
A serious on-the-job injury can change your life in an instant. If you cannot work, you may wonder how you will pay your medical bills and support your family. You are not alone. The cincinnati work injury lawyers at The Cochran Firm understand the financial and emotional stress you are facing, and we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the Ohio workers' compensation system.
Unlike in many other states, Ohio's workers' compensation system is managed by a state agency: the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC). This creates a unique and often frustrating process for injured employees. Your employer and their insurance administrator have lawyers protecting their interests, and the BWC's primary goal is to protect the state fund. To secure your future, you need an advocate dedicated solely to your well-being.
The attorneys at The Cochran Firm Cincinnati provide aggressive, dedicated legal representation for every client. We handle the paperwork, fight back against unfair denials, and make every step of the journey as clear as possible so you can focus on your recovery.
Injured workers in Cincinnati, Ohio are entitled to disability benefits, depending on the extent of their disability:
In most cases, Workers’ Compensation benefits is based on a percentage of your average weekly wage for the past year, or it can be a percentage of your weekly earnings from the date of diagnosis or injury. Workers’ Compensation in Ohio is a no-fault law, which means that any time a worker is injured in the course and scope of employment, workers’ compensation coverage will be available.
The Cochran Firm Cincinnati has been representing accident injury victims for over four decades, and our attorneys have successfully represented hundreds of injured workers in Workers’ Compensation claims involving:
The Workers’ Compensation lawyers at The Cochran Firm can help you navigate the Ohio Workers’ Compensation System from your initial claim through any appeals. Our attorneys can also represent you in third party insurance claims against the property owner, equipment manufacturer or subcontractor who may be held personally liable for causing your injuries. But please be aware that there are limits which can reduce or prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve. To make sure your rights are protected, please contact the Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at The Cochran Firm today.
After a workplace accident, Ohio law provides for specific benefits to cover your medical treatment and offset your lost income. A workers compensation lawyer in cincinnati can help ensure you receive the maximum benefits you are entitled to. These benefits are not determined by who was at fault for the injury and can include several types of compensation:
Even a legitimate workers' compensation claim can be denied due to simple errors. Avoiding these common pitfalls can protect your right to benefits:
Accepting workers' compensation benefits prevents you from suing your employer for your injury. However, you may still have the right to file a separate personal injury lawsuit against a negligent third party. A third party is a person or company, other than your employer, whose actions contributed to your injury.
Examples include:
A successful third-party lawsuit can allow you to recover compensation for damages not covered by workers' comp, such as pain and suffering. A lawyer at The Cochran Firm can evaluate your case to determine if you have a valid third-party claim.
The Workers’ Compensation lawyers at The Cochran Firm can help you navigate the Ohio Workers’ Compensation System from your initial claim through any appeals. Our attorneys can also represent you in third-party insurance claims against the property owner, equipment manufacturer, or subcontractor who may be held personally liable for causing your injuries. But please be aware that there are limits that can reduce or prevent you from receiving the compensation you deserve. To make sure your rights are protected, please contact the Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at The Cochran Firm today!
Never admit fault or downplay the severity of your injuries. Avoid speculating about what happened or providing details beyond the basic facts of the incident. Do not agree to a recorded statement without first consulting with an attorney. Stick to the truth and keep your answers brief.
The outcome of a workers' compensation case depends on many factors, including the quality of your medical evidence and the specifics of your injury. While there is no guaranteed win, having an experienced attorney who can build a strong case and navigate the appeals process significantly increases your chances of a successful outcome.
The timeline for a settlement varies widely. A straightforward claim might settle within a few months, while a complex case that requires hearings and appeals can take a year or longer. Factors like the severity of the injury and whether the claim is disputed impact the timeline.
A fair settlement should account for all past and future medical expenses related to the injury, lost wages, and any permanent impairment. The value is determined by factors like your average weekly wage, the severity and permanency of your injuries, and your ability to return to work. An attorney can calculate an appropriate settlement value for your specific case.
To win a hearing before the Industrial Commission, you need strong, credible evidence. This includes detailed medical records from a BWC-certified physician, your own consistent testimony, and witness statements if available. Your attorney will prepare you for the hearing, present the evidence on your behalf, and cross-examine any witnesses from the employer.
Deciding whether to settle is a major decision. Settling provides a guaranteed sum of money but may close your right to future medical benefits or wage loss payments. The choice depends on your financial needs, the certainty of your future medical care, and the strength of your case. It is best to discuss this decision in detail with your lawyer.
