Occasionally, disputes arise between injured or ill workers and the insurance companies who provide their workers compensation benefits. Since the laws governing workers compensation is different in each state, it is difficult to accurately identify all the appropriate steps, however, the conclusions below are based on summary and overview information.
First and foremost, there are generally two options available to injured workers, although, not necessarily available in all states.
Many states have a dispute resolution system of some sort that aids in the process of solving workers compensation arguments. Contacts for these types of programs and assistance can be found on the appropriate state agency web sites.
In addition to state sanctioned and operated dispute resolution solutions, many states have also endorsed separate agencies to assist with conflict resolution regarding workers compensation. Also available in some states are assistance programs in connection with various unions and labor / worker rights organizations. It is common for the members of these organizations to be former or retired workers from some aspect associated with the workers compensation system, for example, retired judges and lawyers.
Employees should contact their state’s Workers Compensation office to learn more about options available to resolve injury or accident related workers compensation disputes.
