Which option identifies the party that initially files the adjudication application?

Which option identifies the party that initially files the adjudication application?

• A. The insurance carrier
• B. Employee
• C. Employer
• D. Employee's attorney is paid out of award

Answer: (A)

In a self-insured setup, the party responsible for claim administration files the Application for Adjudication of Claim to bring disputed issues before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. The insurer (or self-insured employer’s administrator) handles the formal initiation of the adjudication process, ensuring the contested matters—such as compensability, disability, or medical treatment—are formally set for resolution. The employee typically starts the claim itself, but the adjudication process is begun by the carrier to place the issues on the board’s calendar. The employee’s attorney may file pleadings later, but the initial adjudication filing is the carrier’s action. The option about attorney fees being paid out of the award is unrelated to who initiates adjudication.

In a self-insured setup, the party responsible for claim administration files the Application for Adjudication of Claim to bring disputed issues before the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. The insurer (or self-insured employer’s administrator) handles the formal initiation of the adjudication process, ensuring the contested matters—such as compensability, disability, or medical treatment—are formally set for resolution. The employee typically starts the claim itself, but the adjudication process is begun by the carrier to place the issues on the board’s calendar. The employee’s attorney may file pleadings later, but the initial adjudication filing is the carrier’s action. The option about attorney fees being paid out of the award is unrelated to who initiates adjudication.