In many instances, obtaining a workers’ compensation settlement now takes much longer than it did in the past. Occasionally, the settlement requires more than a year.
This is due to several factors, including the system being overburdened with claims, a lack of adjusters to process claims, injured workers living longer, resulting in settlements taking longer to reach, and insurance companies more frequently denying allegations.
If you’ve been injured on the job and are awaiting your workers’ compensation payment, you may be wondering why it’s taking so long. This blog will explain the reasons for the delays so that you can understand the procedure better.
The Workers’ Compensation System
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program in the United States that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill on the job. The program is intended to provide injured workers with medical benefits and income replacement so that they can continue to provide for their families while they recover.
Employers pay for workers’ compensation by purchasing employee insurance policies. In the majority of states, employers are required to provide workers’ compensation coverage or face penalties.
Why Is It Taking So Long To Get My Workers’ Compensation Settlement?
- One of the reasons for the delays in settlements is that the workers’ compensation system is overburdened with claims. Injuries and illnesses on the job, as well as the number of workers applying for benefits, have increased in recent years. This increase in claims has resulted in a backlog of pending cases, delaying settlements. In some states, it can take over a year to obtain a settlement.
- A lack of adjusters to handle claims is another factor contributing to the delays. Claims adjusters are professionals who investigate and settle workers’ compensation claims. Due to the increase in claims and the lack of adjusters, claims are being processed and settlements are being paid out more slowly.
- Additionally, it takes longer to reach settlements because injured workers are living longer. In the past, many injured workers died prior to receiving compensation. However, as a result of medical advancements, injured workers are living longer, and settlements consequently take longer to reach.
- Insurers increasingly deny claims, the final cause of settlement delays. Historically, insurance companies have paid out settlements without conducting thorough investigations. In recent years, insurance companies have become significantly more aggressive in their investigation of claims and more likely to deny them. This claim denial may result in settlement delays.
Conclusion
Your workers’ compensation settlement is delayed due to the backlog of cases, the waiting period for benefits, the separation of old and new cases, and the time required to investigate your claim. You can expedite the procedure by calling (562) 561-2669 or visiting the Gaylord and Nantais. We can help you navigate the workers’ compensation system and obtain your rightful compensation.
