What is a Notice of Dispute in a Workers’ Compensation Case?

A ‘Notice of Dispute’ is a state form that must be sent to employees when their workers’ comp benefits are stopped.

Insurance companies often dispute workers’ comp claims. And they do so for a variety of reasons. The Notice of Dispute can be based upon late notice or an investigation finding employee misconduct. Some insurers dispute workers’ comp benefits due to pre-existing medical conditions or IME reports.

Regardless of the reason why the insurance company disputes paying you workers’ comp benefits, injured workers face physical, mental and financial hardships due to stopping of benefits and may even become unable to get medical care. It is extremely important that you consult an experienced workers’ comp lawyer if you receive a ‘Notice of Dispute.’

Wage loss Benefits

Injured workers are entitled to payment of lost wages under workers’ compensation law. The payment is 80% of the after-tax average weekly wage. This can mean a lot to someone who is living paycheck-to-paycheck. If the insurance company disputes benefits and stops payments, it can be devastating to the injured worker and his/her loved ones. In such cases, the disabled employee needs to file an Application for Mediation or Hearing and prove continuing entitlement. If you are confused or not sure about what you should do and how to go about filing an Application for Mediation or Hearing, it is best to consult a workers’ comp attorney (consultations at Arizona Injury Law Group are FREE) and find out what the best course of action is.

Medical Treatment

Medical treatment is critical for a worker who has sustained injuries and it is also one of the most important benefits under workers’ comp. Medical treatment is paid at 100% and there should not be any co-pays or deductibles. All reasonable items must be covered.

Insurance companies typically use ‘independent’ doctors to prove that a medical condition or injury is not work-related or no additional treatment is needed. Such biased medical opinions can be challenged in court. Your treating doctor can provide evidence to show that your injury or condition is work-related and workers’ comp is responsible.

If you find that you are not being paid what you deserve or your employer or the insurance company deny or stop your benefits, you can seek a workers’ comp attorney’s help. Your attorney can help you understand your rights and what you deserve sand help you claim it too. Remember that you pay an attorney only a percentage of what you are paid, only if you are paid benefits.

To learn more or to consult the leading workers compensation lawyer in Phoenix, AZ, call Arizona Injury Law Group at 603-346-9009.

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azworkcomp Joined: June 24th, 2018