In many cases, obtaining a workers’ compensation settlement now takes significantly longer than in the past. Occasionally, it takes longer than a year to settle.
This is due to several factors, such as 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 denying allegations more frequently.
If you’ve been injured on the job and are awaiting your workers’ compensation settlement, you’re likely wondering why it’s taking so long to receive your funds. This article will explain the causes of the delays so that you can better comprehend the procedure.
The Workers’ Compensation System
In the United States, the workers’ compensation system is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to workers who are injured or become ill on the job. The program is designed to provide injured workers with medical benefits and income replacement so they can continue to support their families while they recover.
Employers finance workers’ compensation by purchasing insurance policies to cover their employees. In most states, employers must provide workers’ compensation coverage for their employees or face penalties.
Why Is It Taking So Long to Get My Workers’ Compensation Settlement?
There are several reasons why it may take longer than in the past to receive your workers’ compensation settlement.
- The system is overwhelmed with claim filings:
The workers’ compensation system is overburdened with claims, which is one of the reasons for the delays in settlements. In recent years, workplace injuries and illnesses, as well as the number of workers filing for benefits, have increased.
This increase in claims has led to a backlog of cases, which has caused settlements to be delayed. In some states, obtaining a settlement can take over a year.
- There is a lack of adjusters to handle claims:
A lack of adjusters to process claims is another cause of the delays. An adjuster for workers’ compensation is a professional who investigates and settles claims.
As a result of the increase in claims and the lack of adjusters, claims are being processed more slowly, and settlements are being paid out more slowly.
- Because injured workers live longer, reaching settlements takes longer:
Additionally, settlements are taking longer to reach because injured workers are living longer. In the past, many injured workers passed away before receiving settlements.
However, because of medical advancements, injured workers are living longer, and consequently, it takes longer to reach settlements.
- Insurance companies deny claims:
Insurance companies increasingly deny claims, which is the last cause of settlement delays. Historically, insurance companies paid out settlements with little investigation.
In recent years, insurance companies have become much more aggressive in their investigation of claims and more likely to deny claims. This denial of claims may cause settlement delays.
Methods For Streamlining the Workers’ Compensation Settlement Claims Procedure.
- Hire a workers’ compensation attorney
- File a complaint
- Request an expedited hearing
- Work with your employer
- Stay organized
Conclusion
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, it takes a long time to receive your workers’ compensation settlement. You can expedite the procedure by contacting and visiting the Law Offices of DYS or calling (310) 473-2355. We can assist you in navigating the workers’ compensation system and obtaining your just compensation.
