Legal Question in Workers Comp in Connecticut

7 Year Old Case, Anything Else I Can Do?

I was injured on the job in 1997. In 2001 I was given a 15% permanent disability on my knee. This injury is progressively worsening. I will be revisiting my MD soon, and there's always possibility that number could change. I have never retained an atty (at the time, WCC said it wasn't needed and none that I contacted would take my case due to my not making enough money and, I assume, my high profile employer). My comp claim is still open and not settled due to my need for continuing medical benefits. I was fired from the job I was injured at because I could not return to work without restrictions. Employer's lawyers would not settle Unlawful Discharge claim unless I settled my compensation claim also. I don't know if too much time has gone by or if there are any other benefits I am entitled to. Is there anything I can do?


Asked on 5/31/04, 12:35 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Susan Saundry Susan L. Saundry, Attorney at Law

Re: 7 Year Old Case, Anything Else I Can Do?

Unless you have settled your claim, you should still be able to receive benefits for treatment of the natural progression of your original injury. You should return to the physician who treated you for the knee previously (who, for workers' compensation purposes, is your "treating physician") and should advise the insurance company or benefits administrator that you are doing so. The company's adjuster may not approve additional medical treatment and you may need to request a hearing with the Workers' Compensation Commission in order to have the medical treatment covered under the original claim. Once you are getting medical treatment, you can address what is needed in terms of future treatment or whether, after that treatment, any additional percentage should be awarded for PPD.

Read more
Answered on 6/01/04, 9:12 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Workers' Compensation Law questions and answers in Connecticut