Many people in Cleveland, Ohio experience back pain because of their job duties. Maybe you routinely lift heavy packages, or you move office equipment or carry out other manual duties. Even standing for long periods and not doing much else can harm your back. Very often, back pain requires just a little rest or a change in the way you work. However, some workers in Ohio end up with long-lasting injuries that prevent them from working for some time.

If you have debilitating back pain that’s causing you to miss work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, it can be difficult to get the benefits you’re due. Since back injuries can occur in several different ways, you may have a hard time proving that your pain is work-related. Some workers are especially at risk for back pain. These include warehouse employees, healthcare professionals, retail workers, and construction workers. However, since falls or poorly designed office furniture can also cause back pain, any worker in Ohio can be affected. If you’re injured at work, you should contact our Ohio worker’s compensation attorneys right away.

Showing That a Back Injury Occurred While on the Job

You need to show that your injuries are a direct result of your job. This can be difficult if you don’t know the steps to take.Your employer may argue that you’re in pain simply because you’re getting older or you had a pre-existing condition. To improve your chance of having your workers’ comp claim accepted, you’ll need to hire a competent Cleveland workers’ compensation lawyer.

If you plan to file a workers’ comp claim, there are a few things you need to do from the outset. The first is to thoroughly document your condition. As soon as you begin to experience pain that you suspect is job-related, take note of the date and time and how severe the pain is. In some cases, you may experience sudden pain when carrying out a particular activity but other times, the discomfort can increase gradually.

In addition to documenting your symptoms, you also need to get a professional diagnosis. A medical report is necessary if you want your claim to be considered. However, you should know that doctors can’t always tell exactly why a person is experiencing pain. That’s why these types of claims are often disputed.

You must promptly inform your employer about your injuries and initiate a claim if you believe your injuries are job-related. You will only have a limited time within which to do so. Also, the sooner you file the claim, the easier it will be to link it to your job.

Workers’ Comp Benefits You Can Access in Cleveland

There are two categories of benefits that you can claim under Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. Unlike a personal injury claim, you can’t seek compensation for pain and suffering. Instead, you can get medical benefits and wage benefits. You have the right to timely, high-quality care from the doctor of your choice. However, your employer’s managed care organization will work with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to oversee your treatment. A workers’ comp lawyer can help to ensure you get compensation for your medical expenses and represent your interests in the event of a dispute or denial. Even though these cases are supposed to be simple, they can get complicated and you may need assistance.

Wage benefits will be calculated based on your average weekly wage. The amount you’re eligible to receive will also depend on the type of injury you received. You may be entitled to total disability benefits or partial disability benefits. Workers may also be entitled to a lump-sum settlement or vocational rehabilitation and living maintenance depending on the circumstances. Vocational rehabilitation prepares injured workers to return to the same job and employer, a new job with the same employer or a new job in a different field. Maintenance compensation helps to relieve the financial burden on the employee while they undergo training.

Get Expert Legal Advice on Your Case

Back pain can be hard to treat and sometimes, it takes a long time to get relief. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits can help you to avoid extreme financial hardship. Without it, you would have to bear the full burden of medical expenses and lost wages. The key is to work with experienced workers’ comp attorneys in Cleveland to ensure your rights are protected. We’ll help you to accurately calculate your average weekly wage, confirm the benefits for which you qualify, and guide you through the entire process. Call us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.