Top reasons workers’ compensation claims are denied

Most workers in Alabama are covered under their employers’ workers’ compensation insurance. If someone gets injured at work, he or she can usually file an accident injury claim and pursue financial compensation for some of his or her medical expenses and lost wages. However, for various reasons, some claims end up getting denied. If your workers’ compensation claim was denied, it may be due to one of the following reasons.

You didn’t report your injury right away

Reporting your injury right away is one of the most important things to remember when seeking workers’ compensation benefits. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to prove that you were actually injured. Insurers will question why you waited to tell your employer about an accident and how bad your injury really was.

No one witnessed your accident

Being involved in an accident at work with no witnesses is a problem. Workers’ compensation insurers want proof of your accident, and they don’t just take your word for it. If there were no witnesses to your work-related accident, you may be out of luck unless there is some security camera footage.

You were intoxicated or goofing off

Workers’ compensation insurers will try to determine whether your workplace accident was your fault. If you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol or engaging in horseplay at the time of your accident, your claim could get denied.

Other inconsistencies and problems

If none of these reasons sound familiar, your workers’ compensation claim may have been denied for other inconsistencies or problems. For example, if you reported an injury to your left arm, but your medical record shows treatment for your right arm, insurers would question the validity of your claim. If you filed your claim after being fired, it also may come under increased scrutiny.

If your workers’ compensation claim was unfairly denied, you may choose to file a lawsuit against your employer. A lawyer may be able to help you appeal a denied claim and look into your options for pursuing compensation.