Just last fall, the Ohio Bureau of Worker’s Compensation (BWC) reduced the statute of limitations on work injury reporting. Previously two years long, the limit to report a work injury has decreased to only one year.
Limited Opportunity
The state of Ohio is betting that the limitation of the opportunity to file a claim will reduce the number of claims filed as well as reduce monetary outlay for claims. Already in 2018, employers got news that they would see a 12 percent decrease in workers’ compensation premiums starting July first.
Notable Exceptions
If your employer violated a safety measure required by law, you still have two years to file a workers’ compensation claim. Occupational disease claim filing also stays at the two-year limit.
New Wellness Program
On the heels of the new reporting limitation, Ohio’s worker compensation fund recently started a free wellness program for businesses that employ 50 or fewer people. Called “Better You, Better Ohio!” the program targets specific industries with a high rate of workplace injuries such as construction, agriculture and manufacturing in a bid to lower the incidence of workplace injuries.
While this type of program will encourage safer workplaces, it does nothing to assist workers already suffering from work injuries. If you have an injury as a result of performing your job, don’t delay in reporting it. An attorney experienced in work injury compensation can be your advocate and guide you through the process of filing an injury claim and representing you in a lawsuit.
