Does an injured worker have to accept the treating doctor’s rating?
Because your employer has selected your authorized treating physician, often your rating from this physician is usually low or non-existent. Doctors’ opinions regarding your disability can and do vary, and an attorney can help you obtain an independent medical examination that may yield a higher rating and ultimately more money to you. Does an injured worker have to file his or her Workers’ Compensation claim within a specified period of time? Yes. In general an injured worker should file a claim within two years of the date of injury or within two years of the last benefit paid by the Employer/Insurer. This time limit is referred to as a Statute of Limitations, and if a claim is not filed within the applicable statute of limitations your claim is barred and you can no longer pursue your rights as provided under the Act. You should also be aware that a Claim is not a Report of Injury. Your employer is required to file a Report of Injury, but you must file a Claim with the Division of W
