If you find yourself struggling with an injury that you suffered while in the workplace, you may feel unsure of what to do next. Maybe you are unable to continue the same work you did before your accident, or maybe you are in pain that keeps you from enjoying life as you did before the accident. As an injured worker, it is important to know how to pick up the pieces and move forward. One way you may be able to do this is through a workers’ compensation claim.
Workers’ compensation is insurance offered through your Missouri employer, intended for the support of employees who suffered injuries at work or who became ill as a result of his or her job. These benefits can cover everything from your medical bills to your rehabilitation needs as you return to work. The claims process can be difficult, and some initial claims come back denied.
Why do claims come back denied?
Many initial workers’ compensation claims are not successful. It will help to remember that insurance companies do not have your best interests in mind, and their primary goal is to protect their bottom lines above all else. You have the right to appeal a denied claim, continuing your fight for the benefits you need and deserve. The first step in appealing a denied claim is to determine the reason why the claim came back denied. Some of the most common reasons include:
- There was not enough information or documentation included with the initial claim.
- Your employer is disputing the claim.
- No medical treatment was necessary, or you did not include enough medical evidence.
- It is not clear if your injury is related to your job requirements.
- No one reported the accident or filed the claim within the required window.
As part of your appeal, you may have to correct errors or include missing documentation as you continue to seek workers’ comp benefits.
Getting better and moving forward
The aftermath of a work accident can be difficult and confusing. You do not have to navigate the claims process alone. It may be helpful to seek a professional opinion regarding how you can fight for the full amount of workers’ compensation benefits you need in order to put the pieces back together and move forward after a work accident.
