Georgia Workers’ Comp Mediation: What to Expect When Settling Your Claim
When your workers' compensation claim is ready for settlement negotiations, you'll often participate in mediation. This process helps the injured worker and the Employer/Insurer reach a mutually agreeable resolution. It's common for injured workers to wonder, "What happens during a workers' comp mediation?" Let's break down what you need to know.
The Mediator: Your Neutral Guide
The most crucial thing to understand is that the mediator is a neutral party. They aren't on your side, nor are they on the employer's side. Their sole purpose is to facilitate communication and help both parties find common ground to settle the claim.
At Tittsworth Law, we work with experienced Georgia workers' compensation practicioners who serve as mediators. Some are employed by the Georgia State Board of Workers' Compensation, while others operate their own private mediation practices. Their expertise in Georgia workers' comp law is invaluable in guiding the process.
No Obligation to Settle: You're in Control
It's important to remember that neither side is required to settle the claim during mediation. While the primary goal is to reach a workers' comp settlement, simply moving closer to a resolution is also considered progress.
As the injured worker, you have the right to reject any offer from the employer if it doesn't meet your expectations. Likewise, the employer isn't obligated to accept your demands. Our consistent theme throughout any workers' comp mediation is that this is your claim, and you must be satisfied with the result.
The Mediation Process: What to Expect on the Day
Plan for the workers' compensation mediation process to take several hours. During this time, your attorney from Tittsworth Law will be actively presenting offers and arguments to support our demands. If there's a specific point you want emphasized or argued, please communicate that to us, and we'll gladly incorporate it.
Reaching each side's final position can take time, so ensure you're in a private location where you can dedicate the necessary time for the entire process to unfold.