Workers Compensation Commission

This means that for injuries on or after September 1, 2011 new rules are in effect.

The old law applies for injuries before September 1, 2011.

The date the claim is filed does not matter.

The value of injuries after September 1, 2011 will likely be reduced.

A new standard of determining value kicks in and one of the factors is the AMA guidelines. This takes into account some medical factors which may make it more difficult to get a higher settlement.

The full effect of the new work comp law will not be known for another year or two.

The psychological effect will most likely be lower settlement offers from Work Comp insurance companies.

This opens the door for you to seek work related future medical payments.

It does not mean you have insurance or guaranteed coverage.

You must ask the Workers’ Compensation insurance company for authorization.

They may deny you.

If you are denied, then you have to go back to trial to get your medical bills paid.

The review trial often takes longer than the original trial.

The whole process is long and drawn out.

However, it is worth it if you need a future surgery or other costly procedure.

If you think the possibility of costly treatment is remote, and you have health insurance you might decide that future medical coverage is not important to you.