A work accident can leave you with painful injuries and expensive medical bills. If you receive an injury at work, you may feel unsure of what to do next or how you will begin to recover from this type of incident. This is why workers’ compensation benefits exist — to support the needs and interests of employees injured at work or those who become ill as a result of their jobs.
Most employers have an obligation to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This is to allow workers a simple way to get support after a work-related injury, but it also protects employers. By accepting these benefits from the insurance company, you are relinquishing your right to sue your employer because of your work accident. Every worker, no matter the nature of his or her job, will find it beneficial to know how to file a claim and what to do in the event of an injury.
What happens next?
What should you do after a work accident? If you wish to file a workers’ compensation claim, you will find it beneficial to move forward with this course of action as soon as possible. However, even with prompt action, the proper paperwork and a valid injury, workers’ compensation benefits can be difficult to secure.
Receiving notice that your claim came back denied is devastating. It feels like a major setback because you are probably dealing with a painful injury still, as well as missing work for recovery. At the same time, you are watching your medical bills accumulate. Common reasons for denied workers’ comp claims include:
- The paperwork suggests that you did not file your claim within the appropriate amount of time.
- There is reason to believe that you did not report the accident and your injuries to your employer within the required window of time.
- Your injuries were not compensable, or there is no evidence that you required medical care for your injuries.
- Your employer is disputing your claim, or there is not enough evidence that your injury relates to your job or your job-related duties.
You are not out of options. A denied claim is frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. At this point, you can start the process of appealing that decision. You can include additional evidence, medical records, witness statements and other documentation that can verify your claim for compensation.
This process can be complicated and overwhelming. Because of this, many injured workers find it beneficial to work with an experienced New York workers’ compensation attorney from the very beginning of the process. With help, you can complete your initial claim with less chance of preventable mistakes, as well as having guidance regarding a potential appeal.