Cleveland Workers’ Compensation: Protecting Ohio’s Workforce

Cleveland’s diverse economy brings a range of jobs, from bustling warehouses to world-renowned medical centers. But with any job comes the risk of injury. Blue collar jobs like those in manufacturing, construction and shipping are vital to our city’s success. These jobs often involve operating heavy machinery and forklifts and working in fast-paced environments. Even office workers at major companies like Amazon aren’t immune to injury from repetitive stress or slips and falls.

Our attorneys at Bentoff & Duber Co., L.P.A., understand the challenges Cleveland workers face. With decades of experience dating back to 1965, we’ve helped countless individuals navigate the workers’ compensation system and secure the benefits they deserve.

Common Workers’ Compensation Claims In Cleveland

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common work-related injuries we see in Cleveland:

• Musculoskeletal injuries: Lifting heavy objects, repetitive motions and awkward postures can lead to muscle strains, sprains, back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Slip-and-falls: Wet floors, uneven surfaces and cluttered work areas can all cause slip-and-fall accidents, resulting in broken bones, head injuries and other serious injuries.
• Construction accidents: Construction sites are inherently risky, and accidents involving falls from heights, falling objects and power tools are all too common.
• Warehouse injuries: Warehouse workers risk injuries from forklift accidents, repetitive lifting and falling objects.
• Repetitive stress injuries: Desk jobs can also lead to injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis from typing and using computer mouse for extended periods.
• Work-related car accidents: Delivery drivers, sales reps and anyone who spends a significant amount of time on the road for work can be injured in car accidents.

Keep in mind that physical traumas are not the only types of injuries that occur in the workplace. In some cases, stressful or traumatic events in the workplace can lead to mental health challenges that qualify for a workers’ compensation claim.

Mental Health And Workers’ Compensation In Cleveland

While many people associate workers’ compensation with physical injuries, Ohio’s workers’ compensation program also covers work-related mental health conditions. This is important because mental health is just as crucial as physical health, and a stressful or traumatic work environment can take a significant toll.

Here are some work-related situations that could lead to a compensable mental health claim:

• Stress and anxiety: Demanding workloads, tight deadlines and a hostile work environment can all contribute to work-related stress and anxiety.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Certain professions, such as first responders and health care workers, may be exposed to traumatic events on the job that can lead to PTSD.
• Depression: Feeling overwhelmed, hopeless or burnt out due to work can lead to depression.

It’s important to note that not all work-related stress or anxiety will qualify for workers’ compensation. There must be a clear link between your job duties and the development of your mental health condition. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you determine if your situation qualifies for a claim.

If you believe your mental health condition is connected to your job, don’t hesitate to reach out to our workers’ compensation attorneys at Bentoff & Duber Co., L.P.A. We can help you navigate the claims process and fight for the benefits you deserve.

What To Do After A Work Injury In Cleveland

If you’re injured at work in Cleveland, here are the key steps to take:

1. Seek medical attention: Your health is the priority. Get medical attention as soon as possible after your injury and inform the doctor it happened at work.
2. Report the injury to your employer: Don’t delay – report the injury to your employer in writing within one year, and keep a copy of the report for your records.
3. File a workers’ compensation claim: You typically have two years to file a claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. An attorney can help you navigate the filing process and meet all deadlines.
4. Keep detailed records: Hold onto all paperwork related to your injury, including medical bills, doctor’s notes, accident reports, and any communication with your employer or the insurance company.

Even with careful planning, denials happen. If your claim is denied, don’t give up. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Bentoff & Duber Co., L.P.A., can analyze your case, identify the reasons for the denial and fight for the benefits you deserve. We can help you gather additional evidence, appeal the decision and represent you at hearings before the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation.

Workers’ compensation is a safety net designed to help you recover from a work injury. Don’t hesitate to fight for the benefits you deserve.

Don’t Wait, Act Now

Whether you’ve been injured on the job or have questions about the workers’ compensation process, we’re here to help. Our attorneys at Bentoff & Duber Co., L.P.A., offer free consultations to discuss your case and answer your questions. Complete our online form or call us at 216-861-1234 to schedule an appointment. We serve clients throughout Cleveland with a by-appointment office in Beachwood.