Workers’ compensation is an insurance system that provides benefits to employees who become injured or ill on the job. Workers’ compensation is intended to replace a portion of an employee’s lost wages and pay for medical treatment for work-related injuries and illnesses. If you were injured on the job and your workers’ compensation claim was denied, you have a few options. Continue reading to learn more about what to do if your claim is denied.
In the majority of states, workers’ compensation is mandatory, meaning that employers must provide coverage. There are a few exceptions to this rule, however.
Workers’ Compensation Claim Denials Are Common
There are several reasons why your claim was denied. The most prevalent denial reasons include the following:
- The insurance company does not believe that your injury is work-related, which is one of the most common denial reasons. For instance, if you injured your back at work while lifting boxes, your claim may be denied if the insurance company believes that a pre-existing condition caused the injury.
- Another common reason for denial is that the injured worker did not file their claim using the correct procedures. For instance, if you notify your employer of your injury within the required time frame, your claim may be accepted.
- In some cases, workers’ compensation claims are denied because the injured worker is not covered by the workers’ compensation insurance policy. As an illustration, independent contractors are typically not covered by workers’ compensation.
Contact An Attorney Specializing In A Denied Claim
If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, you should consider contacting a workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney who specializes in workers’ compensation will be able to evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action. A lawyer is also able to guide you through the appeals process and is familiar with the laws of your state.
Gather Evidence To Support Your Claim
If you decide to appeal the denial of your workers’ compensation claim, you must collect evidence to support your case. This evidence might consist of the following:
- Include all relevant medical records, such as doctor’s notes, x-ray copies, and hospital records. Include all invoices and receipts associated with your injury, such as medical bills, prescriptions, and lost wages.
- If there are any witnesses to your injury, obtain their written statements. These statements should detail what the witnesses observed and how your injury occurred.
- If you choose to appeal the denial of your workers’ compensation claim, you must file an appeal with the workers’ compensation board in your state. It is essential to have an experienced workers’ compensation attorney for the appeals process. Each state has its own appeals process for workers’ compensation, so be sure to adhere to your state’s requirements.
Conclusion
Contact San Gabriel Valley Workers’ Compensation Law Firm at (626) 602-9483 if your claim has been denied or if you have any questions about the workers’ compensation appeals process. To schedule a free consultation, please contact us immediately.