When Your Workers’ Compensation Adjuster Is Not Returning Calls

If your workers’ comp adjuster is not returning calls and your claim is delayed, a workers’ comp lawyer can help. They will determine if your calls are not being returned due to your adjuster being overworked, your claim being complex, or any other reason. From there, they can step in on your behalf and handle communication with your adjuster and other relevant parties. Worker’s comp benefits are designed to meet your medical and lost income needs when you suffer injuries or become seriously ill at work. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you fight for prompt handling of your case so you can receive the benefits you need and deserve. 

The Role of the Workers’ Compensation Adjuster

The adjuster assigned to your case will ask you a series of questions related to your claim. Their goal is to find out as much about how you were hurt or became ill as possible. They may:

• Investigate your claim and application
• Request a written or oral statement from you 
• Interview your coworkers and employer
• Review your claim-related medical records
• Assess the extent of your injury or illness

Your workers’ comp adjuster also approves medical care. If they do not respond to your calls, the care you need could be delayed, or you might be unaware of its approval. Either outcome could mean you have a gap or delay in treatment.

Your claims adjuster will determine the value of your claim and may make a settlement offer. When your adjuster does not respond to your calls, you can be left uncertain of the outcome of your claim, which can be stressful and frustrating. Your workers’ compensation lawyer can help you get and keep their attention so your claim can move forward. 

What You Can Do If Your Adjuster Will Not Return Your Calls

It can be stressful and aggravating not to be acknowledged when you are applying for benefits after a workplace injury. However, you can take certain steps to try to stop this behavior, such as:

• Speaking to the adjuster’s supervisor
• Calling often and leaving messages
• Trying alternate methods of communication (email, fax, etc.)

You can also send the requested information and important documents to your adjuster via certified mail, as it can help you build a paper trail.

Your Worker’s Compensation Lawyer Will Deal With the Adjuster

Recovering from an on-the-job injury or illness should be your priority and can take up a significant portion of your time. When you are getting better, your claim still requires time, focus, and attention. If you have a lawyer on your side, they can handle the following details for you:

• Review the details of your claim
• Complete and submit your application
• Maintain ongoing contact with the adjuster
• Collect all required medical evidence
• Interview lay and expert witnesses
• Assess your average weekly salary

Your workers’ compensation lawyer can also negotiate a fair and appropriate workers’ comp settlement. If the insurer isn’t cooperating, they recommend you pursue legal action.

What Workers’ Compensation Medical Benefits Cover

The treatment you require can start with emergency care and should continue until you reach maximum medical improvement. Do not stop receiving care or disrupt your treatment plan without your doctor’s approval.

Workers’ comp covers all related costs, including medical, rehab, and therapy expenses, medications, and any required assistive medical devices.

What Workers’ Compensation Wage Replacement Benefits Cover

According to the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I), ill or injured workers typically receive about two-thirds to three-fourths of their average weekly salary. Keep in mind that the type of benefits you receive depends on the severity of your condition and your disability rating. Options may include:

• Temporary total disability
• Temporary partial disability
• Permanent total disability
• Permanent partial disability

Your lawyer will clarify these options and fight hard to avoid having your condition miscategorized, which could compromise the financial recovery you qualify to receive. 

A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Appeal an Adjuster’s Denial of Your Claim

If your adjuster’s lack of response to your claim delays needed medical care or lost income compensation, or if they deny your claim altogether, your lawyer can file an appeal. To bolster your case and prove your right to benefits, your attorney will:

• Review your letter of denial
• Collect additional medical evidence
• Re-interview witnesses and coworkers
• Prepare and file your appeal

Your lawyer will also represent you at your hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Your must typically file your appeal within 30 days of receiving a denial. Given enough notice, your attorney can help you meet the deadline.

Reasons Your Workers’ Compensation Adjuster May Deny Your Request for Benefits

Your claim could be denied for a variety of reasons. Understanding why your claim was denied is critical to an effective appeal. Commonly reported reasons for denial include:

• You didn’t meet the notification and filing deadlines.
• You did not miss enough time from work to qualify.
• You did not seek or receive medical attention.
• Your employer disputes whether your injury was work-related.

Your lawyer will investigate your denied application and build the strongest possible appeal on your behalf.

Contact Our Workers’ Compensation Team Now

When your workers’ comp adjuster is not returning your calls, it can delay the resolution of your case, as well as your receipt of financial benefits. We can help. Our workers’ comp lawyer will deal with the insurance adjuster so you can focus on getting better.

Contact Jackman Law Firm today to get started. We are available 24/7/365. The first call is free of charge, and we won’t ask for any payment unless we obtain workers’ compensation benefits for you.