Employees who are injured due to their job responsibilities can file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits with their employer. Benefits can cover the cost of medical treatment and replace lost wages due to the injury or illness the employee sustained. However, there is no guarantee that your employer’s insurance company will approve the claim; even if it does, they could dispute the amount you are owed.
As Downey workers’ compensation appeals lawyers, we help injured workers dispute their claims for benefits they are owed. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Glauber Berenson Vego will negotiate with the adjuster and advocate for you so that your voice is heard.
Insurance companies and employers frequently deny workers’ compensation claims for legal and procedural reasons. One of the most common reasons is the employee did not follow the procedural requirements. It is crucial to provide notice of the injury and file the appropriate paperwork.
An adjuster may deny a claim if the company decides the injury is not work-related. The employee can dispute this by seeking a second opinion on how the injury relates to their job duties. This could arise with strain or sprain injuries that develop over time or illnesses related to a job.
Another common reason a claim could be denied is if the employee can work. The insurance company may dispute payment for bills if the worker can return to their job. When an injured worker disagrees with the claims processor’s opinion, they should consult a Downey attorney to understand if an appeal is necessary for their workers’ compensation claim.
Disputing the denial of a claim can be a complicated and drawn-out process. With the help of a Downey attorney, the injured worker can quickly resolve the matter to ensure their benefits are paid out in a timely fashion. When it comes to compensation for work injuries, time is of the essence, as employees without an income could also need substantial medical care.
The appeals process for the denial of workers’ compensation benefits in California involves filing a petition for review with a workers’ compensation judge. If the judge denies the claim, it can be appealed to the Workers’ Compensation Appeals Board. The injured employee and their attorney will have a chance to provide evidence of why their claim was wrongfully denied.
The appeals process can take some time, so working with a knowledgeable attorney from the outset is ideal to avoid unnecessary delays. Other factors that can impact the timing of a workers’ compensation appeal include the complexity of the issues, the timing of medical treatment and evaluations, waiting periods, and other delays with witnesses and attorneys.
While it can feel defeating if your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you still have options. As Downey workers’ compensation appeals lawyers, we understand that every day counts when you await your claim’s approval. Hiring an attorney gives you the best chance of success on your appeal.
Our dedicated legal professionals can provide evidence to dispute the denial of your claim, as medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence can make or break it. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.
