Common Reasons for Workers’ Comp Claim Denials
If you are injured at work, you expect to begin receiving workers’ comp benefits relatively soon. Learning your claim was denied can be stressful, but always remember you have the right to appeal, and our workers’ compensation attorney in Pasadena could review the denial and help you take action.
Insurance companies may deny workers’ compensation claims for various reasons, many of which can be successfully challenged with the assistance of proper legal representation. Common denial reasons include claims that the injury did not occur at work, missed filing deadlines, insufficient medical documentation, or allegations that the injury was pre-existing. Some employers may dispute whether you were performing work duties when injured or claim you were an independent contractor rather than an employee.
Your Rights After a Denial
California law provides specific rights to workers whose claims have been denied. You have the right to appeal the decision, request a hearing before a workers’ compensation judge, and present evidence supporting your claim. The appeals process involves strict deadlines and procedural requirements that you must follow precisely to preserve your rights. Working with an attorney from the start ensures these critical deadlines are met.