After a work accident, you may find that you have many needs in your time of recovery. From coverage of your medical expenses to recompense for lost wages, you could secure benefits that may allow you to recoup some of the losses you experienced after your work accident.
In addition to medical care and lost wages, you also have the right to rehabilitation. This could mean rehabilitation for both your physical needs and your vocational needs. Not only do you have the right to a full physical recovery, you also have the right to get the training and help you need if you are unable to return to your same Ohio job.
What happens if I can’t return to the same job?
It can be overwhelming to think about what could happen if you are not ever able to go back to your old job after a work accident. Will you be able to make a living and support your family? How will you find a new job? Part of your rights through workers’ compensation benefits is whatever vocational rehabilitation you need. This may include the following:
- On-the-job training
- Analysis of your job skills and abilities
- Assistance in your job search
- Help with interview skills
- Resume help and job application assistance
- Tuition for retaining classes
- Medical case management
Every case is different, and the types of rehabilitation to which you are entitled depend largely on your individual situation, the nature of your injury and your physical abilities.
The types of benefits you could get depend on the nature of your injury and what you need to get better and ultimately return to work. If an injury causes you to not be able to do the job you used to do, it may be worthwhile to explore how you may be able to secure alternate employment with the assistance of vocational rehabilitation.
Your rights as an injured worker
If you were hurt at work, you do not have to walk through the benefits claims process alone. The workers’ compensation claims system is complex, and insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind. You have the right to a full recovery, but you may have to fight for it.
It could be useful for you to secure help as early as possible after a work accident. This may help you protect your interests, understand your options and better protect your rights.