4 Reasons Your Workers' Comp Claim May Be Denied

If you find that you have been injured on the job, then you can file a workers' compensation claim. Workers' comp will allow you to get paid while you are recovering, as well as cover your bills. However, just because you file a workers' compensation claim doesn't mean that you will automatically get your money. Your workers' compensation claim may be denied. There are a few common reasons that workers' compensation claims are denied. 

Injury While Traveling 

If you can prove that you were traveling for the benefit of your employer somehow, then your claim could be valid. For instance, if you were injured while traveling to a supply store to pick up supplies for your workplace, then the claim could stand. However, most of the time, if you receive an injury while traveling to and from work, you probably won't be able to file a workers' compensation claim for this injury. Injuries that occur off-the-job aren't covered.

Unapproved Treatment

In most states, it is common for the employer to be able to select the medical coverage that the injured worker receives for their injury. This means your employer chooses the clinic and the doctor who will be treating your injuries. If you opt to go get treatment from somewhere that you select yourself, there is a high chance that your workers' comp claim will be denied. 

Late Notice

Each state has different laws regarding how soon an injury must be reported to the employer. For example, in Florida, the law is that your injury must be reported within 30 days of the injury or the claim can be denied. If you tell your employer about your injury too late, then your claim will be denied. It is in your best interest to tell your employer about your injury immediately so that your claim can't be denied due to late notice. 

Lack of Medical Treatment

If you claim to have an injury and then do not get treatment or refuse treatment, your claim will be denied. There must be evidence of treatment as this provides evidence of an injury. If you are injured on the job it is absolutely necessary that you get treatment at the proper place in order to not have your claim denied. 

If your claim has been denied, you might want to think about hiring a workers' compensation lawyer. Your lawyer will know what needs to be changed on your application, as well as give you guidance when filling out the paperwork, hopefully ensuring that your claim isn't denied the second time around. For more information, consider contacting an attorney like Lovett Schefrin Harnett.

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