Employers generally have an obligation to provide workers’ compensation coverage. Employees who get hurt on the job or diagnosed with work-acquired maladies may need benefits. For most, the claims process is straightforward.
They report an issue to their employer, seek medical evaluation and then undergo treatment. If their medical challenges require a leave of absence from work or other accommodations, employees can often ask their employers for reasonable support until they recover. They also don’t have to worry about paying for treatment.
Unfortunately, some workers have a more difficult time than others getting benefits. Their employers may try to dispute their claims. One common reason for denied claims is an allegation that the worker acquired their injury or illness elsewhere. How can an employee respond to claims that their job isn’t responsible for their medical challenges?
Workers may need help handling contested claims
When insurance companies or employers question the validity of a worker’s compensation claim, the employee may have a complicated process ahead of them. They may need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to help establish the connection between their employment and their diagnosis.
They may need to gather evidence including the initial incident report and testimony from those who witnessed their injury. They may also need help learning about how to appeal an unfavorable claims decision.
Workers have the right to support
Although many employees try to handle workers’ compensation claims on their own behalf, bringing in professional support can make a major difference. Attorneys familiar with state workers’ compensation rules can help employees understand their options in a difficult situation.
They can handle most of the paperwork on behalf of the injured employee and can oversee the process of gathering evidence. An attorney can even communicate directly with an employer or insurance provider to clarify concerns about where a worker acquired their medical condition. In theory, even pre-existing medical issues that worsen due to job responsibilities are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
Employees who have the right support throughout the claims process can focus on getting better physically instead of allowing stress to derail their recovery. Having help when a complicated claim may require workers’ compensation litigation can improve an employee’s chance of securing benefits.