A denial of your workers’ compensation claim does not mean the end of your fight for compensation. After a denial, you should prepare to fight back. Insurers find ways to avoid paying benefits to claimants. If your claim has been denied, file a request for a hearing. Then, hire a workers compensation lawyer in Phoenix to fight aggressively for your rights to compensation. Your lawyer can prepare you for the hearing, so you get the best results for the case. The following are steps after your workers’ comp claim has been denied:
Understanding Why Your Claim Was Denied
Before you take further action, you should understand why your claim was denied in the first place. Not reporting the injury to your employer within a certain period can lead to the denial of your claim. In addition, insufficient medical evidence can also be a cause for denial. You need to give proper medical documentation to the insurance company to support your case.
In addition, your claim can be denied due to a pre-existing condition. This makes it essential to provide accurate medical documentation that differentiates between your new work-related injuries and pre-existing conditions. Your injury must be directly related to your work to be compensated under your employer’s workers’ comp insurance. By understanding the reasons for denial, you can prepare to address the issues and pursue an appeal if needed.
Reviewing the Denial Letter
Once you get the denial letter from the insurer, review it carefully with your attorney. This letter should explain why your claim was denied. This allows you to better address the issues and appeal the decision properly.
Also, the letter guides the appeal process. Make sure to follow all the instructions carefully. Take note of important deadlines, so you don’t jeopardize the appeal.
Working with a Lawyer
A workers’ comp lawyer can explain your legal rights to you, assess your case’s strengths and weaknesses, as well as offer guidance throughout each step of the appeal process. When you meet with an attorney for consultation, make sure to bring related documentation like medical records, pay stubs, incident reports, employment records, witness statements, and the denial letter. This way, your lawyer can better understand your case and develop a strong strategy to pursue your appeal. Your attorney needs to get detailed information about your workplace injury, how you sustained it, and the circumstances that surround the incident. This helps them build a compelling case and increases your chances of succeeding in your appeal.