Workers' Compensation for First Responders in Ohio

In Ohio, first responders play an important role in keeping communities safe. Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs often risk their own lives to serve the public. These workers are often exposed to situations that could result in injuries or occupational diseases. When a first responder becomes injured or ill while on the job, they may get benefits thanks to Ohio workers' compensation coverage.

Ohio first responders and their families should understand how workers' compensation works, the laws that apply, and how workers' compensation attorneys from Larrimer & Larrimer can help. They can advise on workers' compensation for minors in Ohio as well.

Understanding Ohio Workers' Compensation Coverage

Ohio's workers' compensation system is administered the Bureau of Workers' Compensation, known as the BWC. This is a no-fault insurance system that offers medical care, wage replacement, and other benefits to workers suffering from severe injuries, psychiatric conditions, and other illnesses sustained while on the job.

For most workers in Ohio, the process is fairly simple: the injured worker will file a claim with the BWC, and then work through the process until they get compensation.

With first responders, however, things are a bit different, and an injured police officer might be treated differently than an injured office worker.

What Makes First Responder Claims Unique?

Any employee in Ohio may file a workers' compensation claim, but the state makes some considerations for emergency personnel. These people face different hazards on a daily basis that are not typical with other professions. For instance, a police officer could be shot while responding to a call, or a firefighter could sustain respiratory injuries due to smoke inhalation. An EMT might develop a mental condition after being exposed to a traumatic scene.

Because of these unique challenges, in 2020, state lawmakers changed the way first responders are treated in regard to workers' compensation coverage. For the first time, for example, a first responder is allowed to file based on post traumatic stress disorder, even without an accompanying physical injury.

PTSD and Mental Health Coverage for First Responders

Historically, Ohio's workers’ compensation laws didn't cover mental health conditions like PTSD unless they were linked to a physical injury. However, this created an issue for first responders who often experience trauma when on duty.

Under Ohio Revised Code Section 4123.01(C)(1), as amended by House Bill 308, a first responder can now qualify for workers’ comp benefits for PTSD and other mental health conditions, even without a physical injury. This law applies to:

• Police officers

• Firefighters

• Emergency medical workers

This is important as it shows that the state now has an understanding that mental health is just as important as physical health, and that a claimant's psychiatric conditions should be covered just the same as an injury or occupational disease sustained on the job.

Types of Benefits Available to First Responders

First responders who are injured may be eligible for a number of benefits including:

• Medical treatment like emergency room visits, surgery, prescriptions, and physical therapy.

• Temporary Total Disability, or TTD, which is wage replacement for time missed from work following the incident.

• Permanent Partial Disability, or PPD, is compensation given to those who become permanently unable to work at their job due to the injury.

• Permanent Total Disability, or PTD, is a lifetime benefit for those who are unable to work at any job due to the injury or occupational disease.

• Wage loss compensation helps cover lost wages for those who can return to work after getting hurt, but they might not be able to return full time.

• Vocational rehabilitation is a benefit, too, and this involves employment retraining and support to help an injured worker return to a different job in the workforce.

Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim as a First Responder

Any first responder who has been injured while on the job should report the injury or illness to their employer and get medical treatment. The employer or the injured worker must fill out a First Report of Injury and submit it to the BWC.

After the BWC receives the claim, it will start going through the process of investigating, and then issues a decision. If the claim is approved, benefits will begin shortly. If it is not, the injured worker can appeal.

Many claims are denied the first time and injured or disabled workers suffer from missing pay. This is why it's important to work with an attorney from Larrimer & Larrimer to ensure that they get the best possible outcome. For more information, Columbus workers comp law firms may be able to help.

Common Challenges Faced by First Responders

Although Ohio law recognizes the sacrifices that first responders make, many are still challenged when they try to file for wokers' compensation insurance. This is why experienced attorneys are critical. Some of the most common challenges include:

• Claims for PTSD Without a Physical Injury - Though PTSD is covered for Ohio first responders, these claims can still be looked upon with scrutiny and might require additional evidence and testimony before approved.

• Claims with Delayed Diagnosis - Some illnesses or conditions, such as cancer or respiratory issues from smoke inhalation, may not appear until months, or even years, after exposure.

• Employer Pushback - There are also cases where a municipality or entity might dispute claims to keep budgets lower or to limit liability.

When facing this, the first step is to contact a firm like Larrimer & Larrimer to help determine eligibility for benefits.

Larrimer & Larrimer’s Commitment to First Responders

Larrimer & Larrimer has been working with the people of Columbus for decades, and the legal team fully understands the sacrifices made by first responders. This is why they are so passionate about ensuring these brave people get the benefits that they deserve.

Larrimer & Larrimer can help with:

• Filing and managing claims

• Navigating appeals

• Coordinating with medical professionals

• Pursuing full and fair compensation

There are strict time limits in place for those who want to file a workers’ compensation claim in Ohio. Generally, the claim must be filed within one year of the date of injury or diagnosis. Delays can negatively affect eligibility and reduce the chances of receiving full benefits.

Fast action ensures access to medical treatment, wage replacement, and the support needed to recover and return to work. For those suffering from PTSD or other psychological conditions, it's important to begin treatment as soon as possible.

First responders face extraordinary risks and make significant sacrifices in the line of duty. When injuries or mental health conditions appear as a result of that service, Ohio’s workers’ compensation system provides an important safety net. However, the process is complex and intimidating, especially when dealing with mental health claims or long-term conditions.

Larrimer & Larrimer is proud to stand by the first responders of Columbus and beyond. Their experienced legal team helps ensure that those who protect the community receive the protection and support they need when the unexpected happens. Call today for a free consultation.