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I Got Injured At Work; What Now?

Last updated on February 9, 2026

Getting injured at work can leave you unsure of what to do next. You may worry about your health, your job and how you will pay your bills. Ohio’s workers’ compensation system exists to help, but the process is not always clear or easy to navigate.

At Heller, Maas, Moro & Magill Co., LPA, we help injured workers understand their options and take the right steps from the start.

Step One: Put Your Health First

Your health should always come first. If you suffer an injury at work or believe your job caused a medical condition, seek medical treatment right away. Prompt care protects your well-being and creates medical records that connect your injury to your work.

You may see any doctor for emergency treatment or your first visit. To receive workers’ compensation benefits, you must continue care with a doctor who is certified by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). This doctor becomes your physician of record (POR). Follow all medical instructions and attend scheduled appointments, as skipping treatment can place your claim at risk.

If you disagree with your POR’s plans for treating you, you may see another BWC-certified medical provider, but if a POR is already on your claim, you should talk to an attorney about having the BWC recognize a new provider as your physician of record.

Step Two: Report The Injury Or Condition As Work-Related

Report your injury or illness to your employer as soon as possible. Explain when and how the injury happened and why you believe your job caused it.

Your workplace may have policies and procedures for reporting accidents that result in injury. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires many employers to keep a record of injuries and illnesses to help employers and their employees identify hazards, fix problems and prevent additional injuries and illnesses. Your supervisor or your company personnel/human resources (HR) department may request specific information about your accident and injury. There may be forms to complete or questions to answer.

However, some work-related conditions develop over time. If symptoms appear gradually, report them as soon as you suspect a connection to your job. Delays can lead to disputes about whether work caused the condition.

Step Three: Gather And Save Evidence

Strong documentation helps support a workers’ compensation claim. Keep copies of:

  • Medical records and treatment notes
  • Accident or incident reports
  • Names of witnesses
  • Missed workdays and wage records
  • Any communication with your employer or the BWC

Clear records can make the difference if the BWC or your employer challenges your claim.

Step Four: File Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

To start a claim, you must file a First Report of Injury, Occupational Disease or Death (FROI). This form includes details about your injury, job duties and medical diagnosis. Your doctor must complete the medical portion.

Although medical providers can submit the form, filing it yourself helps ensure it is submitted correctly and on time. The BWC reviews the information and decides whether to allow the claim.

When To Contact A Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Many workers benefit from legal guidance before filing a claim. An attorney can review your paperwork, confirm that medical records support your injury and help avoid mistakes that lead to delays or denials.

If the BWC denies your claim or questions your benefits, an attorney can help you respond, file appeals and present evidence at hearings. Early guidance often improves the chances of approval and protects long-term benefits.

Contact Our Ohio Workplace Accident Lawyers

Since 1985, Heller, Maas, Moro & Magill Co., LPA, has focused on protecting injured workers in northeastern Ohio. Our attorneys bring over 200 years of combined experience handling Ohio workers’ compensation claims.

We offer free consultations, and you only pay a legal fee if we recover compensation for you. If you were injured at work or believe your job caused a medical condition, contact us to discuss your next steps and protect your rights. Call our office at 330-974-1231 or use our online form to start learning about your options.