How Does the Workers' Compensation Hearing Process Work?
After a workplace accident or injury, it is important to notify your employer immediately if you intend to file a workers' compensation claim through the Ohio Bureau of Workers' Compensation (BWC). The state legislature mandates that all employers must participate in the state-run workers' comp program.
The Workers' Compensation Hearing Process
After receiving your completed workers' compensation claim from your BWC certified doctor or hospital, or from yourself, the BWC will review your file and determine whether your injuries qualify for benefits. In the event all or part of your claim for benefits is denied, you have a limited period of time to file an appeal through the Ohio Industrial Commission (OIC) workers' compensation hearing process.
Upon filing and appeal, the OIC will schedule a hearing with a district hearing officer. The OIC workers' compensation hearing process is informal, generally lasting about 15 minutes. The hearing is usually scheduled in a conference room setting, not a courtroom. The hearing is your opportunity to start your claim from a clean slate. Many people without an attorney make the mistake of going to the hearing alone. In hearings before the OIC, it is important to have a knowledgeable, experienced lawyer present evidence about the accident and injuries sustained. Your lawyer will be able to make your strongest case for any part of your claim that was initially denied, including cash payments, medical coverage or other financial allowances.
If your district hearing officer denies all or part of your claim, you may have the additional option of scheduling a second hearing with the OIC, in which a staff hearing officer will hear your evidence. Your attorney will present fresh evidence for receiving benefits.
What Can the Right Attorney Do for You?
The workers' compensation hearing complex is complicated. Don't let it frustrate you into giving up. OhioBWCAttorneys .com is a group of independent workers' compensation law firms that have agreed to participate in a professional advertising program. Every law firm in our network has decades of experience successfully arguing denied claims before the Ohio Industrial Commission.
When you contact us, we will have a participating attorney in your area contact you to arrange a free consultation. Your lawyer will prepare the evidence for a clear presentation of facts. At your OIC hearing, your attorney will do the talking and handle every detail.
