What can an injured worker do if they believe their benefits were wrongly terminated?

When an injured worker believes their benefits have been wrongly terminated, filing an appeal with the appropriate authority is a crucial step in the process. This allows the worker to challenge the decision and provide any necessary evidence or documentation that supports their claim for continued benefits. The appeals process is typically outlined by the workers' compensation system in West Virginia, ensuring that injured workers have a mechanism to seek a reconsideration of their case.

Accepting the decision without question does not advocate for the worker's rights and may result in lost benefits that they are entitled to. Seeking legal action immediately could be premature, as the established process includes an appeals mechanism that should be utilized first to resolve the issue. Reapplying for benefits after six months does not address the immediate concern regarding the termination of current benefits and doesn't guarantee approval upon reapplication, as each case is evaluated individually. Thus, pursuing an appeal is the most effective course of action to contest the termination of benefits.