Navigating workers’ compensation claims can be challenging, especially when encountering delay tactics employed by insurance companies. Understanding and countering these workers comp delay tactics is crucial to ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.
Keep reading to learn some of the most common delay tactics and how to handle them effectively. When you’re ready, contact a New York workers’ compensation lawyer at (212) 741-3800.
Requesting excessive documentation
One of the prevalent workers’ comp delay tactics is requesting excessive documentation. Insurance companies may repeatedly ask for extensive medical records, detailed work histories, or redundant documentation that they already possess. This tactic can stall the process, as gathering this information might take considerable time and effort.
Strategy to counter
Ensure all documentation is thorough and organized from the beginning of your claim. The Weinstein Law Group can assist in compiling and reviewing all necessary documents to ensure you meet the requirements without any unnecessary delays.
Delayed approval for medical treatments
Another common tactic is delaying the approval of necessary medical treatments. This can be particularly frustrating as it directly affects the injured worker’s recovery process. Insurers may take their time to authorize surgeries, therapies, or other critical treatments.
Strategy to counter
It’s important to have legal representation to press the insurance company for timely responses. The Weinstein Law Group has experience in expediting these processes and can take legal actions if unreasonable delays continue.
Frequent changes in claims adjusters
Changing claims adjusters frequently can also lead to processing delays. Each time a new adjuster takes over a claim, they might take time to review the case, thereby resetting the progress made.
Strategy to counter
Stay proactive in your communications. Regular follow-ups and keeping detailed records of all interactions help maintain continuity. Your attorney can also intervene to keep things on track and pressure the insurance company to act promptly.
Misinterpretation of the claim
Sometimes, insurers might misinterpret or question the claim’s validity as a tactic to delay or reduce payments. This can involve disputing the cause of the injury or the extent of the disability.
Strategy to counter
Gathering unequivocal medical evidence and expert opinions that support the claim is crucial. The Weinstein Law Group works with medical professionals to ensure that all medical reports and testimonies are precise and robust, countering any misinterpretation or underestimation of the injuries.
Unnecessary Independent Medical Examinations (IMEs)
Insurers may also request frequent independent medical examinations (IMEs) more than necessary, under the guise of needing to be updated or additional verification of the injury’s severity.
Strategy to counter
While you are required to comply with IME requests, your lawyer can challenge any that seem excessive or unnecessary. The Weinstein Law Group is skilled at scrutinizing the motives behind these examinations and will argue against any unjustified demands.
We’re here to help your claim go smoothly
Understanding and addressing workers’ comp delay tactics is essential for navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation claims. Injured workers in New York City can rely on The Weinstein Law Group to actively counter these tactics, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you’re entitled to on time.