Michigan lawyer explains what to do when you realize “my workers’ comp adjuster won’t return my calls” and how to get help.
Getting hurt on-the-job is a nightmare for many of the people who contact our office. They live paycheck-to-paycheck and missing even one week’s pay can mean financial disaster. Workers’ comp is supposed to be a safety net that pays lost wages and covers medical treatment regardless of fault but what happens when a workers’ comp adjuster working on your claim won’t return your calls?
Nothing is more frustrating than when an insurance adjuster won’t return your calls. Try not to take it personally and realize that claims adjusters are people too. Sometimes they get busy and phone calls don’t always get returned quickly. It only becomes a problem when wage loss checks go missing or medical treatment is not promptly authorized.
What should you do when you realize “my workers’ comp adjuster won’t return my calls?” Here are some practical tips that we give our clients.
Send documents to the workers’ comp adjuster by certified mail
A common excuse we hear when clients tell us “my workers’ comp adjuster won’t return my calls” is that they did not receive documentation and cannot approve lost wages or medical treatment. Items like paystubs, work restrictions, medical records, and unpaid bills are suddenly missing from the file. We recommend sending these items by certified mail return receipt requested to ensure there is proof of mailing and delivery. It is also possible to seek penalties if workers’ comp benefits are not paid within 30 days.
Ask for a Notice of Dispute
Insurance companies are not permitted to stop payment of workers’ comp benefits without filing a formal Notice of Dispute (Form WC-107) with the State of Michigan. It should include a written explanation for nonpayment. Asking for this information will let the insurance company know that you understand legal rights. Watch out for excuses like “pending investigation” and “waiting on IME report.” These are warning signs the insurance company is looking to deny payment of workers’ comp benefits.
Hire a lawyer who can take control of the workers’ comp claim
The best advice we can give if you are realizing “my workers’ comp adjuster won’t return my calls” is to hire a lawyer who can take control of the situation. Our experience shows that minor issues can be resolved when a lawyer gets involved. The lawyer does not have to make his or her presence known until a problem occurs. All communication is confidential and there is no fee to monitor a claim. Many of our clients feel a great sense of relief when they no longer have to speak directly to the adjuster.
File an Application for Mediation or Hearing
If your workers’ comp adjuster isn’t returning your calls, you might get their attention by filling an Application for Mediation or Hearing (Form WC-104A). This starts a lawsuit against the insurance company for unpaid wage loss and/or medical bills. The insurance company will hire a lawyer to defend the action. We do not recommend starting a case unless you have an experienced lawyer on your side.
Injured on the job in Michigan? Call now, our attorneys can help!
If you were injured on the job in Michigan, and your workers comp adjuster won’t return your calls, call now to speak with an experienced attorney, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation. There is absolutely no cost or obligation. We’re here for you.
Our attorneys have been exclusively helping injured workers in Michigan for more than 35 years. Our attorneys can help you better understand Michigan laws and what happens after someone has been hurt on the job. To see what our own clients have to say about the caring, compassion, and communication they received from us, you can read in their own words about their experience here on our testimonials page from clients we have helped.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a potential case. Our law firm has represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation today.
Related information:
How Long Do Workers’ Comp Settlements Take In Michigan: Timeline Explained
