As long as your injury happened at work, you might not even question whether or not you will receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, imagine your surprise when your employer denies your claim.
Legally, this could happen under specific circumstances. Knowing some common reasons for denial may improve your chances of a satisfactory outcome.
Procrastination
A common reason why your employer might refuse to pay benefits is because you wait too long to report your injury. Once you receive adequate medical attention, turn your focus to documenting what happened. Include critical details such as where you were, who witnessed the incident, the extent of your injuries and what recovery will look like. Try to use specific dates and times to boost your credibility. According to U.S. News, your employer should have the paperwork you need to file a workers’ compensation claim, as well as provide their assistance if you need guidance throughout the process.
Collaborate with the human resource department to clarify their expectations for submitting a claim. Thoroughly read the accompanying instructions so you can avoid costly mistakes which could prolong the process and jeopardize your benefits.
Rule-breaking
Your employer could also deny your claim if they feel that your injury resulted from negligence or a breach of expectations. Some examples of reasons they may refuse to help you include the following:
- You failed to comply with protocols
- You ignored safety guidelines
- You were not sober at the time of your incident
- Your injury happened because of circumstances unrelated to your job
If your employer denies your claim without providing a reasonable explanation, you might look for ways to appeal their decision. Focusing on your story and looking for ways to corroborate your claim might improve your chances of changing their minds.