What to Do After a Workplace Injury in Ohio: A Step-by-Step Guide from Spears & Marinakis, LLC

Getting injured at work is more than just painful — it can be overwhelming. One minute you’re on the job, and the next, you’re dealing with paperwork, doctor visits, and lost income. At Spears & Marinakis, LLC, we’ve helped countless injured workers across Southern, Southwest, and Central Ohio navigate the confusing maze of Ohio’s workers’ compensation system.

If you’ve recently suffered a workplace injury in Ohio, here’s a step-by-step guide to protect your rights and get the benefits you deserve.

Report the Injury Immediately

The first and most crucial step is to notify your employer right away. In Ohio, there’s no strict deadline for reporting the injury, but waiting too long can raise red flags and complicate your claim. Be clear and accurate in your report — whether it’s a slip and fall at a warehouse in Dayton or a repetitive stress injury from office work in Columbus.

Pro Tip: Keep a written record of your report and ask your employer for a copy.

Get Medical Treatment and Documentation

Your health comes first. Seek medical care immediately, even if the injury seems minor. Make sure to tell the doctor the injury happened at work — this ties the medical record to your potential workers’ compensation claim.

Ohio workers’ compensation claims are often won or lost based on documentation. Every visit, treatment, and diagnosis helps prove your case.

If you’re unsure where to go, remember that Spears & Marinakis, LLC has relationships with providers throughout Southern and Central Ohio who are familiar with BWC (Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation) protocols.

File Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

In Ohio, either you, your employer, or your treating physician can file a First Report of Injury (FROI) form. This kicks off the official claims process with the BWC. You’ll receive a claim number and a BWC specialist will be assigned.

But don’t make the mistake many Ohio workers do — assuming the BWC is automatically on your side.

This is where having a seasoned workers compensation lawyer in Ohio becomes critical.

At Spears & Marinakis, we take over the heavy lifting — handling communications, reviewing medical evidence, and making sure your paperwork is bulletproof.

Know What Benefits You’re Entitled To

Many injured workers don’t realize how many types of compensation they may qualify for:

• Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Pays wages while you recover.
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation if your injury causes lasting damage.
• Wage Loss Compensation: If your injury forces you into a lower-paying job.
• Medical Benefits: Covers treatment, medications, and mileage.

Our job is to make sure you get everything you’re legally owed, not just what the system “offers.”

Monitor Your Claim Status Closely

Even after a claim is approved, benefits can be delayed, denied, or terminated early. Employers may challenge your injury or say you’re fit to return to work when you’re not.

Our legal team actively monitors your claim and responds to every issue, fast.

6. Prepare for Hearings, If Necessary

If your claim is contested or benefits are denied, your case may go before the Industrial Commission of Ohio. These hearings can be intimidating — unless you have the right legal support.

With Spears & Marinakis, LLC by your side, you’re not walking in blind. We’ll prepare all evidence, coach you for testimony, and argue your case with precision. We’ve helped workers in Southern and Southwest Ohio overturn denied claims and recover full back pay.

Why Choose Spears & Marinakis, LLC?

We’re not a national call center. We’re a local Ohio law firm that lives and works in the same communities as you.

• 10+ years of workers’ comp experience
• Dedicated to injured workers, not insurance companies
• Transparent communication and honest expectations
• Aggressive representation at no upfront cost

If you’re dealing with a workplace injury in Ohio, don’t leave your future to chance. Get an experienced workers compensation lawyer in Ohio who knows how to win.

Your Next Step Starts Now

Every day you wait could be another delay in getting paid or treated. Let Spears & Marinakis, LLC handle the process while you focus on recovery.

Call us today for a free consultation or visit our office locations throughout Southwest and Central Ohio.

Spears & Marinakis, LLC
122 S 4th St, Ironton, OH 45638
740-532-6913
https://www.spearsfirm.com/