In Minnesota, workers’ compensation cases can reopen under certain circumstances. When you receive an injury on the job, your employer is responsible for paying for your medical expenses regardless of fault.
If you have ongoing injuries or illnesses from an injury at your workplace, you may want to consult with an attorney about reopening your case. See below to get a better idea if you qualify. Minnesota has specific rules about reopening workers’ compensation cases. According to Minnesota Statute § 176.461, a reopened claim must meet one of the following requirements.
New evidence
If you find documentation or photos that will increase your compensation payments, the case can be up for review. New evidence must confirm that the previous payments were insufficient for your medical expenses.
Employer fraud
Employers may attempt to falsify or downplay the injuries you sustained. If you can prove that your employers intentionally presented your injury dishonestly, you may reopen your case and pursue more damages.
Mutual error
Sometimes the diagnosis or extent of your injury is incorrect through no fault of anyone involved. If in the future you find the information used to justify your payments was wrong, the courts can reopen the case.
Unanticipated worsening of your condition
The courts try to consider future problems you may experience from your injury. However, if you can prove your medical condition worsened unanticipatedly, the case may reopen.
It is rare for workers’ compensation cases to reopen. Consult with an experienced attorney specializing in employees’ rights before pursuing any claims. Remember, a positive result is not guaranteed when you reopen the case.