OUTLINE
OF THE WISCONSIN
WORKERS COMPENSATION SYSTEM
The Wisconsin
Workers Compensation Act was signed into law almost 100 years ago. The
Workers Compensation Act substituted an administrative system for expensive
courtroom law suits by workers against their employers. Almost all Wisconsin
employers are required to carry workers compensation insurance to protect
their employees. The so-called "exclusive jurisdiction" provision
in the Workers Compensation Act means that, in the vast majority of
cases, a person injured in the course of employment in Wisconsin may
seek compensation only through the Workers Compensation administrative
law system and not in the county courthouse.
The Workers
Compensation Act is administered by the Wisconsin Workers Compensation
Division within the Department of Workforce Development. The headquarters
of the Division is located in Madison. The Division receives reports
of injury from employers and insurance companies and tracks the payment
of benefits. The Division also provides general information and standard
workers compensation forms to the public. For general information, you
may contact the Wisconsin Workers Compensation Division at 608-266-1340.
The workers
compensation system is set up to function somewhat automatically. Most
claims for benefits are handled fairly by skilled insurance company
claims adjusters who investigate claims and authorize payment of medical
expenses and weekly disability benefits. In a small fraction of cases,
however, disputes concerning liability for benefits develop between
the injured person and the employer or the claims adjuster.
The Workers
Compensation Division does not represent either side in a disputed case.
If a significant dispute develops, the Workers Compensation Division
may designate an administrative law judge to conduct a hearing to resolve
the dispute. In minor cases, some injured workers can represent themselves.
In more complex cases, injured workers often prefer to consult
an experienced lawyer.
If you have questions about your claim, or
believe you need a lawyer, call us.
Your
Consultation with Us Is Free.
There is No Obligation or Pressure.
608-231-1599