If you’ve filed for workers’ compensation benefits, chances are you’re counting on approval. Many people find themselves in need of support when the timing couldn’t be more crucial.
An injury at work probably means you are burdened with new medical expenses, potentially threatening your financial stability. This makes the prospect of receiving a denial of your claim all the more intimidating to consider.
Reasons Why Workers’ Comp Gets Denied
Unlike other states, California’s employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance policies. This means that almost every employee is eligible to receive workers’ comp benefits as long as they were injured at work, suffered an occupational disease or illness caused by their job, or become injured or ill because of their job.
Absent of the conditions stated above, a workers’ comp claim may be denied.
Several other reasons for denial can include the following:
- The injury happened away from work.
- The injury wasn’t related to work or caused by a preexisting condition.
- The injured or ill worker did not seek medical treatment.
- The injury isn’t severe enough or isn’t recognized by California law.
What Happens If My Claim Is Denied?
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you may be able to file an appeal. Before doing anything, however, you should secure legal representation to help you with this process. Successfully appealing a workers’ compensation claim denial is difficult, but not impossible – especially when you have experienced legal counsel on your side.
At Smolich and Smolich, our seasoned attorneys focus their practice on assisting clients with workers’ compensation matters. Among the common issues, we help our clients fight claim denials, which can be beaten. If you need to appeal or are concerned about getting denied, reach out to our offices to learn more about how we can help.
For more information, contact Smolich and Smolich online.