What Are Common Reasons Why Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Denied?

Common reasons for workers’ compensation claims being denied include issues regarding where the injury occurred or failing to file a claim on time. As unfortunate as these circumstances can be, a Lafayette workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help you.

Attorneys with experience handling workers’ comp cases can lower your chances of running into these issues. That way, it should be easier for you to secure compensation that covers your losses. Let’s look more closely at the reasons why workers’ comp claims are often denied. 

Denials for Accidents That Happened Away From Work

The workers’ compensation system might try to deny your claim if you sustained an accident while on the clock somewhere other than your primary place of work. 

In turn, employers or insurance companies might try to claim that you were not at work, even though you were working—just at a different location. This is one of many tactics that they might apply as a way of avoiding having to pay you the compensation you deserve for your losses. 

However, workers’ comp lawyers know this, and they have the skills to negotiate with insurers who try to minimize their settlement offers. 

What Happens if You Wait Too Long to Notify Your Employer of the Accident?

If you wait too long to notify your employer of the accident that resulted in your injuries, they might deny your claim and argue that your injury did not take place at work. We recommend notifying your employer about the situation before leaving work on the date of the incident.

How Failing to Adhere to the Statute of Limitations Can Result in a Workers’ Compensation Claim Denial

In addition to notifying your employer of your accident, you must file an official claim before time runs out. If you fail to do so, the legal system can dismiss your claim automatically by stating that you no longer have the right to pursue compensation that covers your losses. 

What to Expect if Your Employer Claims You Were Intoxicated at the Time of the Accident 

In some cases, employers might make false claims about their employees in an attempt to avoid paying compensation for on-the-job accidents. Some employers will say that your accident was the result of using drugs or drinking alcohol while working. 

Your employer might go so far as to request a drug or alcohol test soon after the accident occurs. If the results show that you were under the influence at the time of the incident, you could miss out on the opportunity to file a claim for financial compensation. 

Are There Consequences if You Fail to Seek Medical Treatment?

You may face a denial for a workers’ comp claim if you failed to get medical treatment after your accident. That’s why it’s important to you visit a medical professional promptly for care after an accident that left you with any of the following conditions:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Burns
• Spinal cord injuries

Additionally, you may have to see a specific approved physician upon the request of your employer and the insurance company. Failure to adhere to this requirement could also make room for the dismissal of your compensation claim. 

What if Your Injury Stems From a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?

What injuries does workers’ compensation cover? Workers’ comp claims only cover medical treatment for injuries or illnesses that were caused by the duties of your job. These claims cannot cover injuries that stem from events that took place outside of the workplace. 

Your employer may try to argue that your injury is the result of a pre-existing condition in an attempt to deny your compensation. However, your lawyer can help you negate these claims—if they are false—and discuss how to proceed. 

How Can an Attorney Help You With a Workers’ Compensation Denial? 

We understand the stress you may feel after an on-the-job accident, and we know how disappointing it can be to face a denial after filing a workers’ comp claim. However, we can also help you through the workers’ compensation process, including any denials that may arise. 

You can trust us to handle any complications surrounding your claim. From answering your questions to sourcing evidence that backs up your claims, we can improve your odds of securing compensation that adequately covers your losses. 

When you hire us as your legal counsel, you can count on us to track deadlines and offer you guidance that is backed by years of combined experience. We have a reputation for successfully handling workers’ comp claims, and we’re here to help. 

Contact an Attorney for Representation if You’re Facing Workers’ Compensation Claim Denials

What are common reasons why workers’ comp claims are denied? Often, people are denied when they fail to follow the rules or file a claim on time. At Laborde Earles, a workers’ comp lawyer in Lafayette can assist you with the claims-filing process after an on-the-job accident.

Reach out as soon as possible to learn more about us and how we can help you. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start building a case on your behalf.