You did everything you were supposed to. You took the proper precautions while at work but still ended up getting hurt. Again, you did everything you were supposed to. You filed your workers’ compensation claim on time and with all the necessary documentation. Why, then, is your insurer failing to offer you full coverage for your losses?
This is unfortunately common. Many Alaska residents have found themselves getting the short end of the stick, so to speak, after filing for workers’ compensation benefits. The good news is that you may be able to do something about it.
File a dispute
Did you know you can file a dispute if you disagree with the coverage provided by your workers’ comp insurance provider? Many people don’t know that, or if they do, they feel it won’t do them any good. It is your right to do so, though. You can file your dispute directly with your insurance provider or with the state’s Workers’ Compensation Division. You can even request a hearing on the matter.
How to settle a dispute
If you opt to file a dispute, here’s what may happen. A settlement may not come in your favor or it may come:
- Without issue after filing your dispute
- After presenting one’s case in a hearing
- Through negotiations
Settling with your insurer before presenting your case to the Workers’ Compensation Board is possible. If that doesn’t happen, though, you can have legal counsel present your case to the Board. If you are successful, the insurer may be responsible for paying your legal fees.
Statute of limitations
If you want to file a dispute over your workers’ compensation benefits, you do have to start the process within a certain time frame. You generally have two years to request a hearing with the Board. Fail to file in that time and you lose your right to dispute the matter.
Don’t wait and don’t go it alone
Don’t wait to file a dispute. The minute you feel your workers’ comp provider is cheating you out of the compensation you deserve is the minute you may want to look into what it takes to file a dispute.
Your workers’ compensation provider will have legal representation on their side presenting their case if you choose to dispute the coverage they have provided you. You do not have to face their legal counsel on your own. You have the right to have someone on your side fighting for you.
