Why Was Your Workers Comp Claim Denied?

You’re hurt at work. Surely, your company will have your back and help cover your medical bills—right?

But that’s not always the case. Time and time again, solid workers comp claims are flat-out denied, leaving people like you totally lost and angry.

Let’s take a look at the most common reasons why workers comp claims are denied (and what you can do to appeal).

Most Common Reasons for Workers Comp Claim Denials

One of the biggest reasons most workers comp claims are denied is that they weren’t filed or reported on time.

Workers compensation claims must be reported ASAP, usually within a few days of the injury. Your employer is also responsible for telling the appropriate insurance provider just as fast.

The other common reason for denied claims is simply that your employer is disputing the claim. They may dispute that the accident ever happened at all, that your accident isn’t work related, or that your symptoms aren’t related to the accident.

In that case, you’ll need to prove your claim is legitimate. You can do so by gathering witness testimonials or doctor statements.

Unfortunately, employers and insurance companies often look for any reason at all to deny workers comp claims. A denied claim means reducing expenses, and companies are sometimes concerned more with their bottom line than employee well-being.

If you’re unsure why your claim was denied—or feel that it shouldn’t have been denied—it’ time to talk to an experienced workers comp attorney.

Appealing Your Workers Comp Claim Denial

In many cases, the letter you receive describing why your claim was denied also includes information on how to appeal the denial. Read this letter very carefully, and write down any appeal deadlines.

First of all, get in touch with your employer or its insurance company to discuss the denial. Sometimes claim denials boil down to incorrect paperwork or clerical errors, and can easily be straightened out. If your employer still refuses to approve your claim, it might be time for an appeal.

Speak with an Attorney

In this case, it’s better to speak with an attorney. The appeals process can be time-consuming and difficult without professional legal council. Oftentimes, simply hiring an attorney is enough to convince the insurance company to settle out of court without a lengthy legal battle.

And speak with a lawyer sooner rather than later. Appeal deadlines, like your initial claim deadlines, are very strict. Act fast before you lose your right to appeal.

You should also meet with a lawyer before filing the appeal. Workers comp claim appeals are tricky—if you make a mistake early on, you may lose out on the compensation you deserve.

In fact, one of the biggest reasons honest people lose out on the money they deserve is because they didn’t hire a professional workers compensation attorney.

We have workers comp attorney’s in Utah as well as a workers compensation lawyer in Idaho if you have any questions in either of those states.