LA Times has a story about the workers compensation system and the mess that is created. The story basically says that profits for insurers are way up while benefits are way down!
That’s not even the whole story. The legislature has accomplished things that you never thought possible. Nah, you would think they are possible:
1. Killing an entire practice area;
2. Raising profits for insurers;
3. Reducing benefits;
4. Taking a broken system and making it worse. Example: I have a PI client who also has a comp claim. The insurance carrier denied her comp claim. The denial is clearly wrong, but the case does not have enough value that it is worth time/effort to fight it. I can’t find anyone to help this nice lady. It is an absolute disgrace.
5. Scaring the public into thinking the system needs more changes.
Seriously, you could wipe out our entire work comp system, start from scratch with a program designed by high school kids, and still come out better. And, while I wish this was a joke, I think it may actually be possible. Heck, if you think you can design a better work comp system, send me your plan. If your plan is workable, I will send you a small token of my appreciation and post your plan on my blog!