Claim Administrator: This is the organization that administers the workers’ compensation claims. This can include paying the worker and scheduling the medical appointments. The Claim Administrator can be a “self-administered insurance carrier, self-administered self-insured employer, or a third party administrator hired by an insurance company or self-insured employer to handle their workers’ compensation claims.”
Claim Administrator Claim Number: “An internal filing number assigned by the insurance carrier to the file of an injured worker.”
Claim Examiner: See Claim Adjuster.
Classification Code: This is really for the employers. It is one of the factors used to help set the price for the worker’s compensation insurance policy. Virginia has more than 600 codes for various industries and industry segments.
Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA): “If an injured worker is receiving temporary total,
permanent total, or death benefits they are entitled to a cost of living increase effective October 1 of each year if the date of accident is prior to July 1 of that year and if the combination of compensation and Social Security benefits are less than 80% of the pre-injury earnings.” Workers do have to make a special request for the COLA through a form each and every year. The benefits must be pursuant to an Award and the COLA Request form must be taken to and signed off on by someone at the Department of Social Security.
Commission: The state agency that administers most workers’ compensation claims in Virginia. Most Virginia employers and employees are subject to the rulings of the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. “The Commission is a court system and is not an advocate for injured workers.” Injured workers in Virginia should consult with an experienced Virginia work injury lawyer to make sure the rules of the Commission are met. There are three Commissioners, numerous Deputy Commissioners, and one Executive Director.
Commissioners: “The Commission is headed by three (3) Commissioners. The Commissioners are chosen by the General Assembly and serve six (6) year terms. The Commissioners are also appointed to review and reconsider decisions of Deputy Commissioners.”
Injured While Working? Virginia Worker’s Compensation Lawyer Joe Miller Can Help
Joe Miller Esquire knows how upsetting being hurt at work can be. He fights to get your case resolved justly. He has helped thousands of Virginia employees get justice for injured workers and workers who suffer occupational illnesses. Joe Miller fights the insurance companies and makes sure settlement complement future problems. He has the experience and skills to try cases for hearing commissioners. Call attorney Joe Miller at 888-694-1671 to schedule an appointment or complete his online form.
