If you get hurt at your workplace, the workers’ compensation insurance of your employer will cover your medical bills and lost wages. Workers’ compensation insurance gives coverage to injured workers, no matter who was responsible for their injury. Sadly, some employers or insurance companies deny claims. That is why you should not navigate the claim process without a reputable workers’ compensation law firm representing you. Your attorney will increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Also, they can walk you through the common reasons claims are denied. These reasons include the following:
Missed Deadlines
When you file for a worker’s compensation claim, there is a deadline you need to meet. Often, you must report your injury to your employer within a certain period following the workplace incident. In Washinton, you have one year from the injury date to report your injury. If you contracted an occupational illness, ensure you report it within 2 years of its discovery. Ideally, you must report your condition as soon as possible to get your claim started.
Injury-Related Disputes
Your employer may claim you were not working when the injury happened. Generally, workers’ comp covers injuries that occur while an employee is performing job-related duties. As an insurance company may try to avoid or reduce liability, they may assert that your injury is not work-related or that it took place during an unpaid break.
Failure to Seek Medical Attention
To be entitled to workers’ compensation insurance, you must seek medical treatment. Also, your employer may require you to get an independent medical exam with a doctor they choose. Not getting medical treatment or an independent medical evaluation could lead to the denial of your claim. In addition, you must continue your treatment programs and follow the orders of your doctors, including attending follow-up appointments to get continued coverage until you have fully recovered from your injury or illness.
Employment Disputes
Worker’s comp insurance companies may deny your claim if you filed it after you have left your job. But sometimes, you may have a valid reason to have left your job. For instance, you may have been let go due to retaliation after reporting your employer for illegal practices. You probably did not realize you sustained injuries until after you were fired. But employees can seek workers’ comp coverage for up to one year for any work-related injury. Your attorney can fight for your right to compensation in this case.
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