Workers can often get insurance coverage from their employer if they get injured on the job. However, there may be some instances where their claim gets denied. When this happens, it can cause severe hardship for workers and their families. That’s because they may be uncertain of how they’re going to receive care and pay their bills.
Here in Pennsylvania, workers’ compensation is mandatory for most employers, but that doesn’t always mean they always get the coverage they need.
Appealing the decision
Workers can send in an appeal either by mail or electronically. In Pennsylvania, workers have approximately 20 days to appeal their compensation denial. First, however, the worker may want to contact their employer or its insurance company to make sure there wasn’t a misunderstanding. If that’s not the case, they may need to seek legal counsel.
Filling out the form
Those filing may want to make sure they fill out the following:
- The petition type (which can be found on the circulation sheet)
- The date of circulation
- The worker’s bureau claim number
- The date and time the original injury occurred
- Any addresses that are requested
Workers may also want to bring in what the state calls “alleged findings.” Those are often specific listings why the worker believes the decision to deny the claim is wrong.
Claim denials can be devastating
Those who’ve received a workers’ comp denial letter know the pain and anxiety it can bring to them and their families. That’s why they must understand their rights and understand what they need to try and reverse the decision. If the process becomes too challenging for them to tackle on their own, they may want to call an attorney.