Connecticut workers who are injured on the job may have a lot to worry about. They might lose out on much needed wages, which can take a toll on their families’ financial well-being. This financial instability can be exacerbated when medical expenses are fully realized. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits may provide relief. Yet, even an initial award of workers’ compensation doesn’t mean that an injured worker is set.
In fact, under Connecticut law, a workers’ compensation award can be appealed to the Compensation Review Board. These appeals can be filed by any party within 20 days of the award of compensation. The Compensation Review Board will review the record of the initial hearing to determine if the awarded compensation was appropriate. In some instances, the Board may hear new evidence that was not initially presented so long as there is good reason to do so. The Board’s decision should be issued no later than one year after the filing of the petition for review.
While the matter is pending, an injured worker should receive any payments that were awarded to him or her. However, if the Compensation Review Board finds that compensation was not justified, then the amount paid, plus interest, must be repaid. Many may find this troubling. However, it is worth noting that an injured worker can also challenge an award amount if he or she believes that he or she is entitled to more than what was awarded.
Workers’ compensation matters can be critical to an individual’s financial health during a time of instability. For this reason, those who suffer a workplace injury should be fully prepared for what is to come before filing their claim. Many times an experienced attorney can help these individuals prepare for the legal challenges ahead of them.
Source: State of Connecticut Workers’ Compensation Commission, “Sec. 31-301,” accessed on Aug. 15, 2016
