Most of the time, this hearing takes under a few hours, but it could stretch longer if the arbitrator needs more information. It is not uncommon for the process to take several days to complete.
Arbitration might be the right choice for some cases. Limited discovery rights and costs might be useful when less is at stake. Arbitration might feel less adversarial, which could be an advantage where ongoing relationships are hoped to be preserved. Arbitration lends some confidentiality.
Under Section 171.001 of the TAA, written agreements to arbitrate are generally valid and enforceable in Texas.
What is insurance arbitration? Insurance arbitration occurs when an arbitrator—either a person or organization—steps in to settle a case and make a decision about how it's going to be resolved. The decision, called the arbitration award, then (typically) rules in one party's favor.
Arbitration is similar to going to court, but faster, cheaper and less complex than litigation. If the case settles, an arbitration will last around one year. If the case goes to hearing, an arbitration typically takes 16 months.
Arbitration is a fairer, faster, and less expensive way to resolve disputes than time-consuming and expensive litigation.
What is insurance arbitration? Insurance arbitration occurs when an arbitrator—either a person or organization—steps in to settle a case and make a decision about how it's going to be resolved. The decision, called the arbitration award, then (typically) rules in one party's favor.
However, the Texas Supreme Court has ruled that an employer can simply notify at-will employees of the details of an arbitration program it is adopting, and the employees can be bound to that arbitration program by continuing their employment, even if they never sign anything.
At arbitration, the arbitrator will listen as the parties offer evidence about the issues. Witnesses will answer questions under oath, and each party will explain its side of the case. After the arbitration, the arbitrator will review the evidence and make a decision (enter an award) on each issue.
To file the parties' request for arbitration, mail or fax DWC Form-044 to: Chief Clerk of Proceedings, Hearings. Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers' Compensation. Hearings, Mail Code HRG. PO Box 12050. Austin, TX 78711-2050. or. 512-804-4011 (fax number)