If you are exposed to harmful chemicals while on the job or accidentally slip and fall on company property, you have legal rights to file a workers' compensation claim. As companies try to reduce expenses, they find ways to deny claims. This doesn’t mean it’s time to give up, as appeals can be filed to fight for your case and find a suitable solution.

Reasons You Claim Might Have Been Denied

One reason employers deny a claim is by declaring it was not filed on time. Immediately after the occurrence, you need to report your case to your employer immediately. Some employers will file the claim for you, while in other cases you’ll need to file with the state agency. 

If you claim to have incurred an injury or ailment from your job, you will need evidence to support this declaration. Without proof, your company may find a reason to believe the job was not the cause of the dysfunction.

For example, if you experience chest pain from the stress of your job, they may declare that the pain is coming from a smoking habit instead. An evaluation by a doctor can help to clarify and identify the actual cause.

Possible Steps to Take to Appeal

If you find out your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, don’t lose hope. This can happen if the paperwork was not filed properly or another similar clerical error occurs. More commonly, you’ll need to appeal your claim based on the reasons for the denial.

It’s essential to hire a lawyer, as a skilled attorney with experience in workers' compensation claims will be able to provide beneficial advice and strategy to win your case. Many cases are lost because the injured or ill employee does not have an attorney to help them with this complicated process.

The next step you can take to appeal a denied claim is to provide medical evidence. The first stage of the appeal process will require a statement in front of an administrative law judge. Here, you can present documented and verified medical information to support your claim. Witnesses like therapists, co-workers, and doctors can also testify for further support.

If you’ve been mistreated, injured, or become ill due to your work conditions, contact the experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at O’Connor, Mikita & Davidson LLC in Cincinnati, OH. They’ll work closely with your case to find custom-tailored legal solutions and advocate your case to the court. Other practice areas include bankruptcy proceedings, debt relief, and family law. Visit their website for a complete list of services or call (513) 793-5297 to speak with a helpful representative about your case today.