51.48.017 - Self-insurer delaying or refusing to pay benefits. - Washington Statutes

Self-insurer delaying or refusing to pay benefits.

If a self-insurer unreasonably delays or refuses to pay benefits as they become due there shall be paid by the self-insurer upon order of the director an additional amount equal to five hundred dollars or twenty-five percent of the amount then due, whichever is greater, which shall accrue for the benefit of the claimant and shall be paid to him or her with the benefits which may be assessed under this title. The director shall issue an order determining whether there was an unreasonable delay or refusal to pay benefits within thirty days upon the request of the claimant. Such an order shall conform to the requirements of RCW 51.52.050.

[2010 c 8 § 14011; 1985 c 347 § 3; 1971 ex.s. c 289 § 66.]

Notes: Effective dates -- Severability -- 1971 ex.s. c 289: See RCW 51.98.060 and 51.98.070.