Former Titans player denied workers’ comp after receiving it

When workers in Tennessee and elsewhere are injured on the job, they can often apply for benefits through the state’s workers’ compensation program. The workers’ compensation program is designed to assist those who have suffered injuries or illness at work and are, at least temporarily, unable to continue working at their job. The payment of benefits can be a great help to workers who are unable to earn a living due to injury or illness.

Former Tennessee Titan Chidi Iwuoma filed for workers’ compensation benefits after he was cut from the Titans in 2008. His claim was against the Steelers for injuries he suffered between 2002 and 2007. His injuries included left-shoulder and left-hand injuries and concussion-related problems.

In 2010 the former Tennessee Titan player was awarded workers’ compensation benefits as a result of his injuries and the Steelers were also to pay his attorneys fees. The court found that Iwuoma had been injured as a result of his employment as a football player. This despite the fact that he had continued to play football for the Titans after his employment with the Steelers ended.

Later, however, the Steelers appealed the award of attorneys fees. A judge sided with them and reversed the original decision based on the fact that he was able to play with another team after being injured while playing for the Steelers.

As this case shows, there are many factors that go into determining whether a person should be awarded workers’ compensation benefits. Because of this, it’s important to obtain and complete understanding of the program and all of its complexities. Doing so could go a long way toward ensuring you are giving the benefits you deserve.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “Steelers do not have to pay attorney fees in workers’ comp case,” Gina Passarella, April 23, 2012