Getting injured on the job is hard enough. You’re in pain, you might be missing work and now you’ve got bills piling up.
When your workers’ comp claim gets denied, it can feel like the system is actively working against you. But don’t panic, denial isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning of the next step.
Why claims get denied
Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that offers wage replacement and medical benefits to employees who are injured on the job. These systems are regulated by workers’ compensation laws, which differ from state to state. There are several reasons your employer or their insurance company might deny a workers’ comp claim. Maybe you didn’t report the injury right away, or there’s a dispute about when and where it happened. Sometimes they say the injury isn’t serious enough or that it didn’t happen at work at all. Other times, it’s a paperwork issue, missing forms, missed deadlines or something filed incorrectly.
It doesn’t matter whether you work in construction or an office job, injuries happen everywhere. And cumulative trauma cases, like those caused by repetitive motions or long-term strain, are often even more likely to be questioned or denied because they develop over time and may not have a clear-cut date of injury.
If your claim was denied, the first thing to do is carefully review the denial letter. It should explain why your claim was rejected. From there, you may need to gather more documentation, such as medical records, doctor statements or proof that your injury is work-related. In some cases, a witness’s or coworker’s statement can help strengthen your case.
Appealing a denied claim can involve hearings and strict deadlines. It’s not always a straightforward process, but you don’t have to go through it alone. The appeals board will look at all the facts, and having someone in your corner who knows how to navigate the system can make all the difference.
Don’t give up if your claim was denied. Help is available, and you may still have a strong case for benefits. Talking to an experienced legal professional can help you understand your rights and take the next steps with confidence