Curry & RegginelloCurry & Regginello2026-05-19T14:31:11Zhttps://www.rcandrlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1104076/2026/04/CR-7-75x75.pngOn Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[5 mistakes that can ruin your Ohio workers’ comp claim]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2610812026-05-19T14:31:11Z2026-05-19T14:31:11Z1. Relying exclusively on the company doctor
One of the most pervasive myths in the workplace is that you must see the physician selected by your employer. While your company can recommend a medical provider for your initial emergency visit, you have specific rights regarding your ongoing care.
The right to choose: According to Ohio BWC rules, you have the legal right to select your own independent, BWC-certified treating physician for your recovery.
The conflict of interest: Company-sponsored doctors often face pressure to minimize the severity of your injuries or clear you for light duty before your body is truly ready.
The BWC Form C-23 requirement: If you want to switch from the company-selected doctor to your own independent physician, you must formally file this form to ensure the state continues to pay your medical bills.
Choosing an independent, BWC-certified medical professional ensures that your medical chart accurately reflects the true extent of your workplace trauma.
2. Delaying the formal written incident report
Many injured employees wait to report an injury, hoping the pain will subside on its own or fearing that reporting it will cause trouble with management. Waiting to notify your manager is a critical mistake that insurance companies may exploit.
The timeline trap: Waiting weeks to notify your supervisor gives the insurance carrier a reason to argue that the injury happened outside of work or during the weekend.
The written requirement: Verbal notifications can easily be forgotten or denied; you must ensure there is a written, dated record of your report to management.
Self-insured employers: If your company is "self-insured", they pay claims directly. Reporting the injury in writing immediately triggers their legal obligation to process your medical requests.
Filing an immediate, written report establishes a clear chronological link between your job duties and your physical symptoms.
3. Failing to document the scene and conditions
In the rush to seek medical attention, many workers neglect to gather evidence of what actually caused the incident. Once you leave the job site, physical conditions can change rapidly. Documenting the immediate environment provides irrefutable proof that a specific workplace hazard caused your condition.
4. Giving inaccurate statements to insurance adjusters
Shortly after an injury, you may be contacted by a BWC representative or your employer’s third-party administrator (TPA) asking for a recorded statement about the incident.
Understating your pain: Describing your injuries as "minor" or saying you feel "okay" out of politeness can be used against you later if, for example, a doctor discovers you need surgery for a torn ligament.
Speculating on causes: Guessing about technical details or admitting unproven fault can destroy your credibility and lead to an immediate claim denial.
You are not legally required to give a recorded statement to your employer's private insurance adjuster before speaking with a legal professional.
5. Missing critical Ohio BWC filing deadlines
Assuming that your employer will handle all the state paperwork on your behalf is a critical error. The state of Ohio enforces strict statutes of limitations that depend on the type of injury you suffered.
According to state law, you have exactly one year from the date of the accident to file a formal claim with the BWC. However, If your injury is an illness caused by repetitive work or chemical exposure over time, you must file the application within one year after the disability begins. You can file later, but no more than six months after the condition is diagnosed by a licensed physician or other health professional.
Understanding the specific legal requirements for Ohio workplace injury claims is essential for safeguarding your financial future. If you are struggling to navigate the complex state bureaucracy while recovering from a serious workplace accident, you should not face the system alone. Taking a firm stance to protect your rights from day one ensures that you receive the comprehensive benefits needed to rebuild your health and your livelihood.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[How to protect your Ohio workers’ comp benefits during light duty]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2610512026-04-23T14:19:45Z2026-03-04T07:56:59ZUnderstanding Ohio transitional work requirements and employer obligations
Your doctor may set work restrictions. Your employer may also offer transitional work that fits those limits. You can ask for the tasks in writing, then compare them to your restriction form. If duties push past your limits, you can tell your supervisor and consider contacting your managed care organization.
Temporary total compensation often relates to a period when you cannot work. When your doctor releases you to modified duty, benefit rules may change. If your employer cannot offer work that fits your restrictions, you may still qualify for temporary total compensation in some situations.
Protecting wage loss benefits from premature termination during light duty
If you return to work and earn less because of the allowed conditions in your claim, Ohio may allow wage loss benefits. Your focus can remain straightforward: document a wage reduction that directly relates to your medical restrictions. You can help support your claim by taking the following steps:
Report pay and schedule changes promptly
Keep pay stubs, time records and written job duties
Follow medical limits during each shift
Keep medical appointments and evaluations
If your employer expands duties without a new medical release, document the change and consider raising the issue early. Small details can affect benefit decisions.
Reviewing duties, earnings and restrictions before continuing light duty
When light duty starts, request a written job description and compare it directly to your most recent medical restrictions. If your pay changes, calculate the difference from your pre-injury average weekly wage and keep each pay stub.
If assigned tasks exceed your limits, stop and ask your provider to confirm whether those duties fit your restrictions before continuing. Taking these steps early may help you address issues before they affect your workers’ compensation benefits, including wage replacement and medical coverage.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[How does SSDI’s 5-year rule affect those with chronic illness?]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2609072026-04-23T14:19:47Z2024-10-26T00:14:15ZThe Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program provides crucial support to people who can no longer work due to a disability. For individuals with chronic illnesses, the SSDI 5-year rule can be particularly important. Understanding how this rule works can help those with chronic health conditions better navigate the system.
What is the SSDI 5-year rule?
The SSDI 5-year rule states that an applicant must have worked for at least five of the ten years prior to becoming disabled. This work history translates into Social Security work credits, which are essential to qualify for benefits. In simpler terms, people need to have a recent connection to the workforce before applying for SSDI benefits.For individuals with chronic illnesses, this rule can be challenging. Chronic illnesses like multiple sclerosis or lupus can cause flare-ups that make consistent work impossible. If a person stops working for several years due to their illness, they risk losing their eligibility under the 5-year rule.
Challenges for those with chronic illness
People with chronic illnesses face unique hurdles when it comes to SSDI eligibility. The episodic nature of many chronic conditions means they may have periods where they can work and periods where they cannot. This inconsistency can make it difficult to accumulate enough work credits or stay within the 5-year time frame.Furthermore, the uncertainty surrounding when a chronic illness may worsen adds stress. If a person cannot work for more than five years, they might no longer meet the work credit requirements. This makes planning and financial stability difficult for those who depend on SSDI as a safety net.
How to maintain eligibility
Those with chronic illnesses should try to maintain a connection to the workforce, even if part-time work is the only option. Exploring options like accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may help keep employment steady. Consulting with an attorney or SSDI professional can also help individuals navigate this complex system and ensure they remain eligible for benefits.Navigating SSDI's 5-year rule can be complex, especially for those dealing with chronic illness. However, staying informed, seeking support, and exploring all available options can make a significant difference. With the right strategies in place, individuals can better protect their access to vital SSDI benefits.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[Does getting married stop SSI/SSDI benefits?]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2561202026-04-23T14:19:48Z2024-08-23T23:27:16ZSupplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provide financial support to individuals with disabilities. However, many people wonder if getting married affects these benefits. Marriage can change the financial and living situations of individuals, leading to questions about how these changes impact SSI/SSDI.
SSI and marriage
SSI benefits depend on the income and resources of both the individual and their spouse. When someone on SSI gets married, the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers the spouse's income and resources when determining the amount of benefits. Additionally, if both spouses receive SSI, their benefits might be lower because of the couple’s income and resource limits. SSI rules intend to ensure that benefits go to those with the greatest financial need.
SSDI and marriage
SSDI benefits depend on the individual's work history and the amount they paid into Social Security. In most cases, marriage does not affect a person’s benefits. If an individual qualifies for SSDI based on their own work record, their benefits continue even after marriage. However, if someone receives SSDI as a dependent on a parent or spouse's record, marriage can end those benefits.
Weighing the impact of marriage on benefits
Understanding how marriage affects SSI and SSDI helps individuals make informed decisions about their financial future. Consulting the Social Security Administration before making decisions about marriage can provide clarity and help avoid unexpected benefit changes. Knowing these rules ensures that individuals can navigate their benefits effectively and plan for any changes that marriage might bring to their financial situation.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[7% cuts to workers’ comp should not affect support for workers]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2561182026-04-23T14:19:50Z2024-06-28T13:56:03ZBackground on workers' compensation in Ohio
Workers' compensation provides financial and medical benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Employers fund this system through insurance premiums, which are periodically adjusted to ensure balance and sustainability. In Ohio, the BWC oversees this program, setting rates and managing claims to ensure that injured workers receive the necessary support while maintaining affordable costs for employers.
Details of the rate cut
The new 7% reduction in workers' compensation rates marks a continuation of Ohio's efforts to decrease costs for private employers. The latest reduction is projected to save employers $71 million.
Workers can expect the continuation of support in the event of work-related injuries or illnesses. The rate reduction should not affect the quality and availability of benefits. The focus is on maintaining a balance where both employers and employees benefit from a sustainable workers' compensation system.
For employers, the rate cut translates to lower operating costs, potentially allowing for increased investment in other areas of their businesses. This financial relief is especially beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises, which often operate with tighter budgets and margins.
By reducing workers' compensation premiums, Ohio aims to boost economic growth and encourage job creation while still supporting workers.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[Why are medical professionals so at risk for injuries?]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2561162026-04-23T14:19:51Z2024-05-01T16:17:36ZHeavy lifting and manual handling
One reason medical professionals are at risk for injuries is the frequent need to lift and move patients. Whether they are helping someone out of bed or transferring them to a wheelchair, workers may strain to complete this task.
Even repositioning a person during treatment is tough. Attempting to move patients alone can result in serious musculoskeletal injuries.
Exposure to diseases
Medical professionals often work closely with patients with contagious illnesses. Despite precautions such as wearing gloves and masks, the risk of exposure remains high.
Contact with bodily fluids or dirty surfaces can lead to the transmission of pathogens. This puts healthcare workers at risk of getting severe illnesses like tuberculosis or hepatitis.
Workplace violence
In some healthcare settings, medical professionals also face the threat of workplace violence. Patients and their families may become agitated or aggressive due to stress, fear or mental health issues. This leads to physical confrontations. Frontline staff members are particularly vulnerable to these incidents, which can result in serious injuries.
Long hours and fatigue
Healthcare often requires medical professionals to work long hours. This fatigue can harm judgment and reaction times. It also increases the risk of accidents and injuries. Whether it is a nurse giving medications during a late-night shift or a surgeon performing a complex procedure after hours, exhaustion can pose risks.
Injured medical professionals may want to explore ways of seeking fair compensation. Healthcare facilities should prioritize the safety and well-being of their staff at all times. By addressing these risks, those in charge can help ensure that people who devote their lives to healing others can do so safely.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[Steps you can take to make your car safer in inclement weather]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2561142026-04-23T14:19:53Z2024-03-04T19:15:16ZCheck your tires and keep them in good condition
Your tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Their condition makes a significant difference in how well you can maneuver around slick roads.
Make sure your tires have sufficient tread depth to grip the road surface. You might also consider switching to winter tires for better traction in cold weather.
Additionally, maintain proper tire pressure. Properly inflated tires ensure optimal performance and handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Check your tire pressure weekly at a minimum, as the weather can cause tire pressure to drop. Fortunately, many modern vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems to alert you to low pressure.
Ensure you have proper visibility
Clear visibility is also important for safe driving. Replace worn-out windshield wipers, and ensure you continually top off your windshield washer fluid.
If snow or ice has accumulated on your windows, take sufficient time to clear it off before heading on a trip. Additionally, check that all lights are working correctly, including headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals.
Drive more cautiously
You should also reduce your speed when driving in inclement weather. Slower speeds allow for better control and reaction time, reducing the risk of skidding or losing control of your vehicle. Stay calm and focused, and be gentle with your steering, braking and acceleration inputs.
Another tip is to leave extra space between your car and the vehicle in front of you. In slippery conditions, it takes longer to stop, so maintaining a safe following distance can help prevent rear-end collisions.
Plan your trips
Good preparation before every trip is another smart practice. Check weather forecasts before heading out, especially on long journeys. If conditions are severe, consider delaying your trip or taking an alternative route if possible.
Keep an emergency kit in your car with essential items such as a flashlight, blankets, water, nonperishable snacks and a first aid kit. Additionally, make sure to keep your cell phone charged in case you need to call for assistance.
You cannot eliminate the possibility of an accident, but with preparation and care, you can reduce the odds of having a life-threatening crash when the weather is bad.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[What are the most dangerous roads in Ohio?]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2561102026-04-23T14:19:55Z2024-01-06T22:46:07ZState Route 7
Connecting Akron to Youngstown, Interstate 76 is notorious for its heavy traffic and challenging conditions. The densely populated stretches coupled with abrupt merges create a breeding ground for accidents. You must navigate through a maze of vehicles, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and strategic maneuvering.
Interstate 76
Linking Akron to Youngstown, Interstate 76 is famous for its heavy traffic and tricky conditions. With lots of cars and tricky merges, accidents can happen easily. You must navigate through a bunch of vehicles, so you have to keep your eyes open and make smart moves.
US Route 33
Running through the heart of Ohio, US Route 33 is akin to a roller coaster ride for motorists. With its hilly terrain and sharp descents, this road demands precise control of speed and steering. Unpredictable weather conditions further add to the risk, making it important for you to exercise caution and adapt to the changing landscape.
State Route 83
Running through rural Ohio, State Route 83 has challenges that might test your patience. The narrow lanes and occasional animals crossing the road need you to be steady behind the wheel. Some parts of the road do not have shoulders, so you must drive cautiously.
There were a total of 241,135 crashes involving vehicles, pedestrians or bicycles in 2023 in the state of Ohio. Each road in this state needs different skills and a keen awareness. Stay safe as you hit the road, taking it slow, being respectful and knowing the risks that come with each journey.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[3 surprising statistics about workplace injuries]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2560902026-04-23T14:19:56Z2023-11-07T18:19:24Z1. Non-fatal injuries are more common than you think
While fatal workplace accidents often receive headlines, non-fatal injuries are far more common. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported approximately 2.6 million non-fatal workplace injuries in 2021. These injuries result in lost work time, sometimes lengthy recovery periods for workers and reduced productivity for businesses.
High-risk industries might surprise you
Many people assume that the industries to worry about are construction and manufacturing. The fact is that some of the higher-risk industries include healthcare and retail workplaces. According to Forbes Magazine, healthcare is the most dangerous profession in America.
Younger workers face greater risks
A report from the CDC indicates that workers under the age of 25 face a greater number of occupational injuries requiring emergency room care as compared to their older co-workers. This illustrates an increasing need for safety education among younger workers.
These statistics reflect troubling trends in workplace injuries. Recognizing the frequency of non-fatal workplace injuries and the industries and workers facing the highest risks can help to encourage safety practices and education. Employers should support worker training, safety standards implementation and operational changes. This helps reduce the risk of injuries, illnesses and lost work time. Proactive steps benefit both workers and the business by maintaining production and profitability.]]>On Behalf of Curry & Regginello<![CDATA[How do you prove a long-term injury is because of your work?]]>https://www.rcandrlaw.com/?p=2560882026-04-23T14:19:58Z2023-09-07T17:51:52ZMaintain detailed records
Maintain records of the tasks you perform and the work environment you use. Make note of any incidents that might have contributed to the injuries as well.
Medical documentation
Seeking timely medical attention and maintaining a consistent medical history can strengthen your case. Request medical reports that mention the link between your injuries and work-related activities.
Witness testimonies
Your colleagues can provide firsthand accounts of your work conditions and the potential hazards you face. These testimonials can bolster your case by adding personal perspectives to the evidence.
Photographic evidence
If possible, take photographs of your workspace and any relevant conditions that might contribute to your injuries. Visual evidence can be compelling and easier to understand for those evaluating your case.
Ergonomic assessments
If you have a repetitive stress injury, ergonomic assessments can reveal how workplace setup and equipment might be a factor. These assessments can provide insights into potential hazards that are easy to overlook.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, private industry employers reported 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses in 2021. Many workers exert their rights to workers' compensation when injuries occur, and your long-term condition should be no different.]]>