Injury Compensation
If you’ve been injured on the job in Washington state, time-loss compensation is meant to replace a portion of your wages while you recover. But what happens when those payments seem too low, or stop altogether? Unfortunately, this is a common issue in many Seattle workers’ compensation cases, leaving injured workers struggling financially during an already stressful time.
A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer can help you challenge unfair calculations and fight for the benefits you deserve.
What Is Time-Loss Compensation?
Time-loss compensation is a wage replacement benefit provided under Washington state’s workers’ compensation system. It’s designed to cover lost income while you recover from a workplace injury or illness. However, these payments are often calculated incorrectly, leading to:
- Underpayment of benefits
- Delays in receiving compensation
- Premature termination of payments
If you suspect your payments are too low, you may have grounds to dispute the calculation. A workers’ compensation lawyer can review your claim and fight for accurate compensation.
Why Time-Loss Payments Are Often Miscalculated
Several factors can lead to incorrect time-loss payments in a Seattle workers’ compensation case, including:
- Incorrect wage calculation: Your benefits should be based on your gross wages, including overtime, bonuses, and other compensation.
- Misclassification of employment status: Errors in determining whether you’re full-time, part-time, or seasonal can affect your rate.
- Failure to include secondary jobs: If you work multiple jobs, all income should be considered.
These mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars. Don’t assume the insurer’s calculation is correct, get a legal review.
Independent Medical Exams and Their Impact
Insurance companies often use Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to justify reducing or stopping benefits. These exams are conducted by doctors hired by the insurer, and their reports can influence whether your time-loss payments continue.
Tips for Your IME
- Be honest and consistent about your symptoms.
- Avoid exaggeration; stick to facts.
- Document everything, including what the doctor says.
- Record your exam, if your IME provider provides prior consent.
If an IME suggests you can return to work, even when your treating doctor disagrees, your benefits may be cut. A workers’ compensation lawyer can challenge biased IME findings and protect your rights.
Signs Your Benefits Are at Risk
- Payments suddenly decrease without explanation.
- You receive notice of an IME.
- The insurer claims you can return to work despite ongoing symptoms.
These are red flags that your claim may be under attack.
How a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help
Hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer offers several advantages:
- Accurate Benefit Calculation
They review your wage history to ensure all income is included. - Aggressive Advocacy
They challenge unfair IME reports and insurer tactics. - Representation in Hearings
If your claim is disputed, they fight for you before the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals. - Comprehensive Support
From initial claim filing to appeals, they handle every step.
What to Do If You Suspect Underpayment
- Gather Documentation: Pay stubs, tax returns, and employment records.
- Request a Calculation Review: Compare the insurer’s numbers to your actual wages.
- Contact a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer: Schedule a free cae review to discuss your options.
Take Action Today
If you believe your time-loss payments are too low, don’t wait. Contact a workers’ compensation lawyer for a free case review. They will fight to ensure your benefits reflect your true wages and protect your rights throughout the process.
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