Many claimants are justifiably upset with the debilitating nature of their work injury, and the oftentimes permanent effect it can have on their employment prospects and overall quality-of-life. We frequently receive requests or inquiries regarding a lawsuit against the employer for “pain and suffering” damages.

 

Unfortunately, under Ohio workers’ compensation laws there is no direct analogue for “pain and suffering damages.” However, there is a form of compensation designed to compensate you for the residual effects of your work injuries. The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation and self-insured employers alike would prefer claimants remain ignorant of this form of compensation, called permanent partial compensation, so please contact qualified counsel to determine your potential eligibility for payment.

 

The value of this award is entirely dependent upon a physician’s examination and determination as to your overall percentage of residual impairment. The matter is then oftentimes argued before the Industrial Commission of Ohio before you receive an administrative order determining your percentage of residual impairment. We highly advise any claimant to retain counsel if they wish to pursue this award, as there are specific, technical criteria that must be fulfilled from an evidentiary standpoint in order to demonstrate entitlement to permanent partial compensation.

 

If you have any questions regarding your workers’ compensation claim, or an application for permanent partial impairment compensation, please feel free to contact our office.