4 Common Problems With Workers’ Compensation Claims

There are several common problems you should be aware of that can arise during the workers’ compensation claims process.

Workers’ compensation claims are a necessary part of the process when you’ve been hurt on the job. They allow you to get the medical care and income you need to support yourself and your family while you’re out of work. However, these claims don’t always go as smoothly as intended. In fact, there are several common problems that can arise during the workers’ compensation claims process. Below, we’ll discuss some of the most common issues and offer advice on how to handle them.

filing out a work injury claim form

1. Your Employer May Try to Downplay the Extent of Your Injuries

One of the most common problems with workers’ compensation claims is that employers often try to downplay an employee’s injuries. They may do this by claiming that the employee was injured outside of work or that the injuries are not as serious as they seem. In some cases, employers may even try to pressure employees into returning to work before they are fully recovered.

If your employer tries to downplay the extent of your injuries, it’s important to stand up for yourself. Gather evidence, including medical records and eyewitness statements, to support your claim. If necessary, after speaking with an experienced attorney, you may consider getting a second opinion from a doctor not affiliated with your employer. This will help ensure that your claim is filed correctly and that you get the full benefits you deserve.

2. Your Employer May Fail to Follow Up on Your Claim

Another common problem with workers’ compensation claims is that employers may fail to follow up on them in a timely manner. In some cases, employers may forget to file the necessary paperwork or may not submit it to the correct address. This can cause delays in processing your claim and may even result in your benefits being denied.

If your employer fails to follow up on your claim, the best thing you can do is to be persistent. Follow up with your employer regularly and make sure that all of the necessary paperwork has been submitted. If you still have problems, don’t hesitate to contact your workers’ compensation attorney for help.

3. Fear and Hesitation to File a Claim

It’s not uncommon for injured employees to be hesitant to file a claim out of fear of retaliation from their employer. Unfortunately, this fear is often well-founded, as some employers retaliate against employees who file workers’ compensation claims – either by demoting the employee, cutting their hours, or even firing them.

If you’re hesitant to file a workers’ compensation claim because you’re afraid of retaliation, it’s important to understand your rights. Under the law, employers are not allowed to retaliate against employees who file workers’ compensation claims. If you do experience retaliation from your employer, speak with an experienced attorney to ensure your legal rights are protected.

4. Denial of the Claim

Unfortunately, even if you’ve followed all of the proper procedures, there’s always a chance that your claim will be denied. In some cases, this may be due to simple mistakes or oversights. However, there are also times when insurance companies deny claims outright, even when they are well-founded.

If your claim is denied, don’t give up. You can appeal the decision. However, please note that the appeals process can be complex, so it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. An attorney can help you gather evidence and build a strong case for why your claim should be approved.

These are some of the most common problems that can arise during the workers’ compensation claims process. If you have been injured on the job, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced attorney at The Law Office of James. M. Hoffman. We have over 30 years of experience handling workers’ compensation claims and can help you get the benefits you deserve. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

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Updated: July 14, 2022