How to Handle a Denied Workers’ Compensation Claim

You may feel overwhelmed and defeated after a denied workers’ compensation claim, but the fight is far from over. Denials are common, and you shouldn’t give up. Challenging the decision with the help of a workers’ compensation attorney will help you appeal the denial and pursue the benefits you deserve. An adequate legal time and the right approach can improve your chances of success, helping you gain long-overdue compensation from a workers’ comp claim.

Understanding Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation insurance protects employees who may suffer from injuries and illnesses at work. Employers can purchase insurance before hiring, financially and medically covering employees to maintain a stable, reliable, and trustworthy relationship between them.

Common Reasons for Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims

The most common reason for workers’ compensation claims being denied is missing or incomplete paperwork or evidentiary documents. If an insurance company lacks essential information, it can deny the claim.

Other common reasons for denial include:

• Delayed injury reports, especially if the claim is filed after the statute of limitations.
• Disputes between an employee and employer about liability. The claim can be denied if an employer is adamant that an injury or illness occurred outside of work.
• Lack of medical records or evidence. An employee failing to get medical care after an injury adds reasonable doubt to a case, resulting in possible denial.
• Claims filed after employment ends are suspicious because employees will have more difficulty proving injury or illness from a previous job.

While these common reasons for denial are challenging, they aren’t impossible cases to win. With the right attorney and adequate evidence, an appeal can be successful.

Filing an Appeal: The Steps to Take After a Denial

1. Go over the denial letter with a workers’ compensation attorney to understand the reason for the denial.
2. Gather additional evidence to combat the verdict. Medical records are essential as documentation of injury or illness.
3. File an appeal with the workers’ compensation board and insurance agency.
4. Present your claim with an attorney to a judge or appeals board, following procedures to meet deadlines and plead a successful case.

Moving Forward After a Denied Claim

A denied workers’ compensation claim isn’t the end of the world. Finding the right attorney can help you file a successful appeal, allowing you to try again and focus on recovery after a work-related injury or illness.

For more info, call Grewer Law to schedule a consultation!