How does Hawaii's workers' compensation system typically handle disputes?

Hawaii's workers' compensation system typically handles disputes through mediation and hearings, making this the correct choice. In the context of workers' compensation, mediation serves as a valuable tool for resolving conflicts between the injured workers and their employers or insurers. It allows both parties to present their perspectives with the assistance of a neutral mediator, aiming to reach a mutually agreeable solution before escalating to more formal proceedings.

If mediation does not resolve the dispute, the case can then progress to hearings. These hearings are conducted by a judge who is trained in workers' compensation law and have the authority to make binding decisions based on the evidence and arguments presented. This structured approach ensures that disputes are handled efficiently while protecting the rights of all parties involved.

The other options do not accurately reflect how Hawaii's workers' compensation system operates. Private arbitration is not the primary method used in this context; rather, the state system emphasizes mediation and hearings. Similarly, forced mutual agreements are not common, as the system aims to facilitate voluntary resolution through mediation. Lastly, while direct court interventions may occur in some cases, they are not the standard approach for handling disputes in the workers' compensation system. The preference is for administrative hearings and mediation to maintain a more streamlined and specialized process for resolving such matters.