My husband ....?
My husband went before arbitrator in his worker's compensation case in May. We are still waiting to hear something. Our lawyer one day says it looks good and the next day gets us all worried that it is going to go the other way. He got hurt at his job where he broke 2 ribs, chest, and severed two disc's in his back. Lost his job and can no longer work in manual labor and we are still waiting to hear so we can go ahead with the back surgery. Does anyone know how long this could take. I mean I testified, doctors, my mother-in-law all before the arbitrator and we are just waiting on his decision. Why is it taking so long? Anyone have any advise?
Answers:
That is strange that your lawyer would not share with you why he thinks it could go the other way. Call him up and ask him. Either way if this drags on forever you might wish to change lawyers.
It can drag on for a long time because so much money is involved. The companies insurance company might be trying to muck it up.Even if it doesn't go your way you can appeal.
Your husband will need money for medical bills, money for possibly going back to school, and all sorts of damages. The insurance comanies often send out someone to get proof that a person is actually disabled even after they settle. If they pay out $200,000 dollars it is worth it for them to spend 2 thousand to do this. They catch guys who got the big payout but foolishly started working side jobs.... so the lose it all and get sued and charged w. fraud.
So no more lifting groceries, running up stairs, dancing, etc.
Talk to your state representative and see if he can speed things up.
workers comp cases can drag in forever !! be patient and go ahead with the back surgery , I dont see where this should be a problem in the process.
as for the lawyer , I am not sure why he is sending you mixed messages. the longer a company waits can be a good thing because they will more than likely settle. the settlement process can take along time as well. bottom line if you arent happy with the lawyer , get a new one.
workers comp laws vary from state to state. depending on where you live will determine what you get as some states such as NY are very pro worker ... where as others arent so worker friendly. read up on your own states laws.
good luck
The answers post by the user, for information only, FreeLawAnswer.com does not guarantee the right.
Answer question:
More Law Questions and Answers: