Workers’ Comp Reforms Target Litigation Costs
- A new article examines how frequent medical treatment denials in workers’ compensation contribute to rising disputes and administrative expenses.
- It cites data showing increased attorney involvement and higher overall claim costs linked to delayed approvals.
- Research referenced in the piece finds that many initially denied claims are later accepted at significantly greater cost.
- Proposed reforms include faster medical decision‑making and broader use of independent medical evaluations to reduce litigation costs.
Court Demands Proof of Inability to Perform Job Duties
- The court ruled that applying a three-multiplier requires specific findings regarding a worker’s inability to perform pre-injury tasks.
- A judge must link medical evidence directly to the physical requirements of the claimant’s former employment.
- This case was sent back because the original decision lacked sufficient detail to justify the higher benefit rate.
Travelers Report Shows Longer Workers’ Comp Recovery Times
- Travelers’ new analysis of more than 1.2 million workers’ compensation claims shows injuries are becoming more complex even as overall injury rates decline.
- Older employees and first‑year workers account for a disproportionate share of severe claims and extended lost‑time durations.
- Construction and transportation workers face the longest average recovery periods. Slips, trips and falls remain a leading driver of high‑cost claims across industries.