Worker's Compensation Claims Differ from Negligence Claims Part 1 | Ohio Worker's Compensation Attorney

Ohio Worker's compensation claims are much different than the negligence cases that result from situations like car accidents or dog bites. In a negligence case, you can be compensated for your medical bills, damage to your property, and your pain and suffering. In some cases, you can even seek additional money to punish someone for their bad behavior, such as when you're struck by a drunk driver. If a lawsuit needs to be filed, it's done through the court system and the case is heard by a judge.
The worker's compensation system was set up to eliminate many of the claims that could be brought through a negligence case. The Ohio General Assembly designed a system that helps employers minimize the costs they might have to bear through employee injuries. The theory is that if employers had to pay for things like pain and suffering, or punitive damages, it would be too expensive to do business. Having to defend the cases in court would cost even more money. Whether or not you believe that's fair to employees who are hurt on the job, that's the system we have. Instead of having cases heard by a judge or jury, work comp claims are handled through an administrative hearing officer.

If you or someone you know has suffered a work injury, you need information. Order your FREE copy of The Ohio Work Injury Book to learn your rights. Our attorneys are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and we have six locations in northwest Ohio where we can meet with you - for free - to discuss your case.