Extensive Legal Experience In Work-Related Hand Injury Cases In Ohio
If you’ve suffered a hand injury at work, worry not. Our Beachwood hand injury lawyer at Karp Steiger, is here to stand by your side with unwavering support and unmatched experience. With extensive experience in handling work-related injury cases in Ohio, we take pride in our successful track record of helping countless clients recover the compensation they deserve for their hand injuries.
At Karp Steiger, we understand the challenges you may face due to a hand injury, affecting your ability to work and impacting your livelihood. Our personal injury attorneys will meticulously navigate the intricacies of Ohio’s workers’ compensation system and tirelessly fight for your rights.
Trust in our commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t let your work-related hand injury hold you back. Reach out to us today and let our exceptional legal services pave the way for a brighter future.
What Is A Hand Injury?
A hand injury refers to any damage, trauma, or harm sustained to the structures and tissues of the hand. It can encompass a wide range of conditions, from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries such as fractures, dislocations, burns, lacerations, and nerve damage.
Hand injuries can occur in various settings, including workplace accidents, car collisions, sports activities, or even simple daily tasks.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Work-Related Hand Injury In Ohio?
The most common causes of work-related hand injuries in Ohio, as in many other states, can vary depending on the industry and type of work. Some of the common causes include:
Contact With Objects And Equipment
This includes injuries caused by machinery, tools, and other objects in the workplace, such as getting caught in moving parts or being struck by falling objects.
Slips, Trips, And Falls
Accidents involving slips, trips, and falls can lead to hand injuries when employees use their hands to break their fall or brace themselves against impact.
Repetitive Motions
Jobs that involve repetitive hand movements, such as assembly line work or data entry, can lead to cumulative trauma disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Overexertion
Overexertion during lifting, carrying heavy objects, or performing physically demanding tasks can result in hand injuries, including strains and sprains.
Contact With Hazardous Substances
Exposure to chemicals, irritants, or harmful substances can cause burns, dermatitis, and other hand injuries.
Struck By Or Against Objects
Workers may sustain hand injuries when they are struck by objects or when their hand is caught between objects.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Employees who drive as part of their job may experience hand injuries in motor vehicle accidents.
Burns And Scalds
Certain industries, like food service or manufacturing, pose a risk of hand injuries due to burns from hot surfaces or liquids.
Electrical Hazards
Electricians and other workers dealing with electricity face the risk of electrical shock and hand injuries.
What Are The Different Types Of Hand Injuries At Work?
As per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, thousands of American workers are absent from work each year due to hand injuries. Hands are complex and vulnerable, and they can sustain damage from various causes, such as:
Lacerations
These cuts can be severe enough to tear through the flesh. If the lacerations are significant, they can result in lasting harm to nerves or tendons.
Crush Injuries
If your hand gets trapped between heavy machinery and a solid surface like a wall or the floor, it can be crushed. Severe crush injuries have the potential to cause permanent damage.
Avulsion Fractures
This type of fracture occurs when a small piece of bone connected to a tendon is pulled away from the main part of the bone. This injury is frequent in fingers. While it can be a simple injury, there is a chance that the force could completely detach the entire finger.
Burn And Scald Injuries
In the workplace, a worker’s hands are often the first to come into contact with a hot surface. Burn injuries can range from mild to severe and may cause lasting scars and nerve damage. Additionally, there is a significant risk of infection.
Punctures
Sharp objects and tools can inflict severe harm if they pierce your hand. Nails, needles, and knives are examples of items that can go all the way through your hand.
Amputation
Serious hand injuries can result in the complete loss of the hand. Workers may experience hand loss in accidents involving machinery, vehicles, and power tools.
Chronic And Repetitive Strain Injuries
Hand injuries don’t always occur from one sudden event. They can also be caused by repetitive actions, which can lead to conditions like tendinitis, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, trigger finger, and other repetitive strain injuries (RSI).
What To Do Following A Work-Related Hand Injury In Ohio?
Following a work-related hand injury in Ohio, there are important steps you should take to protect your health and ensure you receive the necessary medical care and benefits:
Report The Injury
Inform your employer about the hand injury as soon as possible. Ohio law requires injured workers to report workplace injuries within a specific timeframe to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Failure to report the injury promptly could affect your claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Get immediate medical treatment for your hand injury. Your health and well-being are top priorities, and timely medical care can also help document the extent of your injuries for your workers’ compensation claim.
Document The Incident
Keep a record of the details surrounding the hand injury, including the date, time, location, and how the accident occurred. Also, note any witnesses who saw the incident.
File A Workers’ Compensation Claim
In Ohio, you must file a workers’ compensation claim to seek benefits for a work-related hand injury. This claim should be filed with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC).
Consult With An Attorney
Consider speaking with our trusted hand injury lawyer in Beachwood, OH who can guide you through the process and help protect your rights. We can assist you in gathering evidence, filing the claim correctly, and negotiating with the insurance company.
Follow The Treatment Plan
Comply with your doctor’s instructions and attend all medical appointments. Adhering to the prescribed treatment plan is crucial for your recovery and to strengthen your workers’ compensation case.
Stay Informed
Keep track of your workers’ compensation claim status and be aware of any deadlines or requirements set by the BWC.
Communicate With Your Employer
Stay in touch with your employer about your recovery progress and any work restrictions recommended by your doctor. Your employer may have suitable transitional work options available to accommodate your injury.
Remember, workers’ compensation laws and procedures can be complex, and having our personal injury attorney on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. We can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the benefits you are entitled to following a work-related hand injury in Ohio.
Am I Eligible For Ohio Workers’ Compensation?
To be eligible for Ohio workers’ compensation benefits, you must fulfill the following conditions:
- You work for an employer who contributes to Ohio’s workers’ compensation system
- You experienced an injury while at work or while performing job-related tasks
- You possess medical records that confirm your injury resulted from a work-related incident
- You complete and submit the necessary paperwork within the specified timeframes
When Should I File My Workers’ Compensation Claim In Ohio?
Previously, Ohio employees had up to two years from the date of their injury to initiate a workers’ compensation claim. However, as of October 2017, this window was reduced, requiring injured employees to submit their claims within a year of the injury.
This adjustment by the Ohio Legislature aims to diminish the total number of claims, alleviate the pressures on employers, and curb the submission of potentially dubious claims.
Importantly, it’s crucial to remember that this new one-year time limit does not apply to claims related to Occupational Disease (OD) or Violation of Specific Safety Requirements (VSSR) applications. These cases may still have different filing deadlines.
How To File My Workers’ Compensation Claim In Ohio?
If you experience a work-related hand injury, promptly inform your employer about it. Then, seek medical attention from a doctor, especially if it’s an emergency, and go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care clinic.
After reporting the injury to your employer and receiving medical care, reach out to one of our Ohio hand injury attorneys. We’ll assist you in navigating the claims process and ensure you meet all necessary deadlines correctly.
What Are Workers’ Compensation Benefits For Hand Injuries In Ohio?
Hand injuries on the job can be devastating, affecting not only your ability to work but also your daily life. In Beachwood, Ohio, workers’ compensation benefits aim to support those who suffer from hand injuries while at work.
- Medical Coverage: Ohio’s workers’ compensation provides full coverage for all required medical treatments connected to your hand injury. This can encompass doctor visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any necessary medical equipment, helping you heal without the burden of medical bills.
- Wage Replacement: If your hand injury forces you to take time off work, you may be entitled to partial wage replacement. This temporary support ensures that you can focus on recovery without stressing over lost income.
- Scheduled Loss Compensation: For more severe hand injuries, such as amputation or permanent loss of function, the state offers scheduled loss compensation. The amount and duration of this benefit are determined by a specific schedule, reflecting the severity of the loss.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) Benefits: Tragically, some hand injuries are so severe that they lead to a complete loss of functionality in both hands. In these cases, Ohio’s workers’ compensation system acknowledges this as a total disability. As a result, you may qualify for PTD benefits, ensuring financial support for the rest of your life.
Is My Workplace Hand Injury Covered If I Am Partially At Fault?
Workers’ compensation operates as a no-fault system, which implies that it doesn’t matter if an employee was at fault for their injury. However, claims from workers who were intoxicated or involved in fights while on the job are often rejected, as these actions are considered outside the scope of work-related activities.
What To Do To Prevent Hand Injuries At Work?
Preventing hand injuries at work is essential for ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. Here are some proactive steps you can take to minimize the risk of hand injuries:
Wear Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Always use the right type of gloves and any other required PPE for the specific tasks you perform. Gloves can protect against cuts, burns, chemicals, and other potential hazards.
Receive Proper Training
Ensure that you and your colleagues receive thorough training on how to use equipment and machinery correctly. Understand the safety protocols and best practices for handling tools and materials.
Practice Good Housekeeping
Keep the work area clean and organized. Eliminate clutter and potential tripping hazards to prevent accidents that could lead to hand injuries.
Use Ergonomically Designed Tools
Opt for tools and equipment that are ergonomically designed to reduce strain on your hands and wrists during repetitive tasks.
Be Cautious With Machinery
Follow all safety guidelines when operating machinery. Avoid removing safety guards or bypassing safety features.
Take Regular Breaks
If your job involves repetitive hand movements, take regular breaks to rest your hands and reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries.
Report Hazards And Near Misses
If you notice any potential hazards or near-miss incidents, report them to your supervisor immediately, so appropriate action can be taken.
Handle Chemicals Safely
If you work with hazardous chemicals, follow proper handling procedures and use appropriate protective gear to safeguard your hands from chemical exposure.
Lift Objects Correctly
When lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques to avoid strains or injuries to your hands and wrists.
Be Mindful Of Your Surroundings
Pay attention to your surroundings and be aware of potential hazards that could cause hand injuries.
Promoting a safety-conscious culture at work is essential for preventing hand injuries. Employers should also conduct regular safety training sessions, perform risk assessments, and encourage employees to actively participate in maintaining a safe work environment.
By taking proactive measures, you can reduce the risk of hand injuries and contribute to a safer workplace for everyone.
Why Do I Need A Hand Injury Lawyer In Ohio?
Hiring our Beachwood hand injury lawyer for your work-related hand injury in Ohio can provide numerous benefits and significantly improve the outcome of your workers’ compensation claim. Here are some reasons why you need our personal injury lawyer:
Understanding Of The Legal Process
Workers’ compensation laws can be complex, and navigating the system on your own can be challenging. Our legal team has in-depth knowledge of Ohio’s workers’ compensation laws and the processes involved in filing a claim, ensuring that your case is handled properly and efficiently.
Maximizing Compensation
We can help you accurately calculate the value of your claim, including medical expenses, lost wages, and potential future costs. We will work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to for your hand injury.
Handling The Paperwork
Filing a workers’ compensation claim involves extensive paperwork and adherence to strict deadlines. Our skilled hand injury lawyer in Beachwood, OH will take care of all the necessary paperwork, ensuring that everything is completed correctly and submitted on time.
Gathering Evidence
Our competent Beachwood hand injury lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to gather relevant evidence supporting your claim. This may include medical records, witness statements, accident reports, and other essential documentation to strengthen your case.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may try to offer you a settlement that is lower than what you deserve. We will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.
Handling Appeals
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or disputed, our skilled personal injury lawyer can help you through the appeals process, presenting a strong case to secure the benefits you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights
Having legal representation ensures that your rights are safeguarded throughout the entire process. We will advocate for you, ensuring you are treated fairly and not taken advantage of by the employer or insurance company.
Focusing On Your Recovery
Dealing with a hand injury can be physically and emotionally taxing. With our Beachwood hand injury lawyer handling the legal aspects of your claim, you can focus on your recovery and getting back to work as soon as possible.
Trust In Our Commitment To Achieve The Best Outcome For Your Ohio Hand Injury Claim
At Karp Steiger, we’re deeply committed to standing by your side in work-related hand injury cases. Our Beachwood hand injury lawyer knows the ins and outs of Ohio’s workers’ compensation system. Over the years, we’ve successfully secured fair settlements for our clients, and we’re eager to do the same for you.
We genuinely believe that every hand injury case deserves our full attention. Our team is here to stand up for your rights, working tirelessly to ensure you get the maximum compensation for your pain and any financial setbacks.
Choosing Karp Steiger, means partnering with a dedicated team who won’t stop fighting for you. And remember, it’s not just hand injuries we can help with. If you or someone you know needs assistance with personal injury or sex abuse cases, we’re here for you. Get in touch with us today, and let’s work together to seek the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.