When an employee or contractor in Georgia becomes injured at the workplace or while conducting work-related tasks elsewhere, it’s their right to file a workers’ compensation claim. The unfortunate fact is that sometimes this doesn’t go smoothly. It can benefit you to participate in mediation so that you have a neutral third party to assist with communication between you and your employer.
Is it a requirement to take part in a mediation appointment?
If you receive an order from the State Board of Workers’ Compensation to appear for a mediation, it’s necessary that you attend at the scheduled time and at the appropriate place. The process can only move forward if the claimant is present at this meeting. A representative of the insurance company also should be present at the mediation, since they have complete authority to resolve any issues at hand.
If the case involves suitable employment, a representative for the employer should appear. However, you aren’t required to reach an agreement during this meeting and you still would have the right to a hearing if the parties don’t reach an agreement.
Why it’s in your best interest to go through mediation
Mediation is a crucial part of the workers’ compensation claim process. This is mainly because it can help save time, money, and energy if you and the other party can resolve the matter out of court. You’ll benefit from maintaining some control of what happens, rather than relying on a decision-making authority to take over the significant aspects of your case. It is an informal means to resolve the claim and allows all parties to discuss their sides and expectations. This brings more humanity into the case and can reduce stress.
Workers’ compensation mediation is ideal
You can put your trust in mediation when you have a workers’ compensation claim. Arrive with plenty of questions and a firm, clear idea of what you want and expect. This will increase your chances of a successful outcome.