It may be difficult for you to go back to work the next day after suffering from a workplace accident. However, you do not want to miss work, use up sick days or risk losing your job. You may be entitled to workers’ compensation, which can cover your medical expenses and lost wages.
Your benefits could be delayed if your workers’ comp claim is denied. To appeal a workers’ comp claim decision, it is important to understand why the claim was denied. Here are a few possible reasons:
1. An accident happened outside of work
Workers’ comp benefits are only eligible to workers who were injured while on the job. An employee who was injured outside of work, such as from a slip-and-fall accident or car accident, may not be entitled to benefits. Your claim could be denied because your employer believes your injury happened outside of work.
2. An injury was not cared for by an approved doctor
While you may have seen a doctor for your workplace injuries, your employer may require you to see an approved workers’ comp doctor before you receive benefits. Failing to see an approved physician could delay your benefits.
3. Reporting and filing deadlines were missed
There are two critical deadlines to seek workers’ comp benefits. First, you should report your workplace accident to your employer within 21 days from the date of the accident. Second, you have three years from the date of the accident to file for workers’ comp benefits. Failing to meet either of these deadlines can prevent you from receiving benefits.
If you need help appealing a workers’ comp claim denial, you can seek professional legal guidance.