When on-the-job injuries occur, workers’ compensation insurance provides employees relief from the financial burden of lost wages and medical expenses. Unfortunately, the process of collecting benefits can be challenging and, sometimes, deserving applicants get denied. It’s not uncommon for a hurt employee to make mistakes that put their claim at risk. To avoid any issues, it’s wise to hire an experienced workers’ comp attorney for help navigating the system. To give you a sense of what can go wrong, the legal team at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C., in Lake St. Louis, MO, explain a few factors that can jeopardize a case.

4 Reasons Workers’ Comp Claims Are Denied 

1. Not Reporting an Injury on Time 

Under Missouri law, employees must report a work injury to their employer within 30 days from when the incident happened. Staff should provide a notice in writing, including the date, time, and where the accident took place. Failing to meet this deadline can result in an automatic claim denial.

2. Neglecting to Follow Medical Care Requirements  

For an injured employee to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, they must comply with protocol regarding medical care. They must see a doctor, obtain treatment from an authorized provider, and follow all the given orders. If a worker neglects to do any of these, their claim isn’t likely to be approved.

3. Providing Inconsistent Statements 

Insurance companies frequently deny benefits when an employee makes inconsistent statements about what took place, or if there is a discrepancy between the accident report and medical records. A workers’ comp attorney will gather evidence in the employee’s favor to prove they have a legitimate claim. 

4. Being Under the Influence 

Immediately after a work injury happens, the employee may undergo testing for drug or alcohol use. If it’s confirmed they were under the influence at the time of the accident, a denial is imminent. With the assistance of a workers’ comp attorney, an employee may be able to successfully argue that whatever was in their system was not a contributing factor to their injury.

Understanding why claims are commonly denied will help employees take precautions if they get hurt on the job. If you want to apply for benefits or received a denial, the workers’ comp attorneys at Coyne, Cundiff & Hillemann, P.C. will guide you through the necessary steps or the appeals process, respectively. The team has over 75 years of combined legal experience and will fight to maximize your award. Visit the website to learn more about their background and expertise in this practice area, or call (636) 561-5599 to discuss your situation.