Experienced Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorney explains what to do
If you have been injured on the job, you should be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits in most cases. Unfortunately, many legitimate workers’ comp claims are often denied for many different reasons.
If you are dealing with a denied workers’ compensation claim, it’s important to take action right away to demand the compensation you rightfully deserve. But what should you do? What are your rights? Below, you can find the answers to these questions and many more about denied workers’ compensation claims.
Why are workers’ compensation claims often denied?
Workers’ compensation claims are denied for many different reasons. Some of the most common reasons why workers’ comp claims are denied include:
- Workplace injury not reported in time to supervisor at work.
- Workers’ compensation claim not filed in time with the state.
- The doctor chosen by your employer or your employer’s insurance company claims you are not seriously injured.
- Your employer claims your workplace injury occurred outside of work.
- Your employer claims your workplace injury is a pre-existing medical condition.
- You did not provide enough evidence proving that your injury is work related.
There are many reasons why workers’ compensation claims are denied. And in each case, it’s important for someone who does not receive their workers’ compensation benefits to take steps to get the financial compensation they need and deserve after their work-related injury or illness.
What steps should I take if my workers’ comp claim is denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, there are several steps you can and should take as soon as possible:
- Gather documentation in support of your workers’ compensation claim – This can include medical bills for your work-related injury, testimonials from your doctor, co-workers or anyone else familiar with your work-related injury or illness.
- Keep a journal about your work-related injury – Write down any symptoms or pain you may be experiencing as a result of your work-related injury. Make sure to write down specific dates and times. Details matter.
- Appeal your denied workers’ compensation claim – You have the right to appeal your denied workers’ comp claim. In Pennsylvania, you will need to file your claim with the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board.
- Make sure you file your appeal on time – Each state has different rules when it comes to appealing a denied workers’ compensation claim. In Pennsylvania, you only have 20 days from the day your claim was denied to file an appeal.
- Hire an experienced workers’ compensation attorney – Successfully appealing a denied workers’ compensation claim can be very challenging. Your employer’s insurance company will likely have a team of attorneys supporting their decision to deny your claim. That’s why it’s important to have someone on your side who thoroughly understands the law and who can be your voice for justice.
To learn more about how a workers’ compensation lawyer can help you if your application for benefits is denied, contact our law firm and schedule a confidential, free case evaluation with an experienced, Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Offices of Richard A. Jaffee, LLC.