In some cases, a workers' compensation claim will be denied. A workers' compensation application can be denied for a variety of reasons, including:
- Failure to file an initial accident report, or filing an initial accident report too long after the accident
- Mistakes on the initial accident report
- You tested positive for alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident
- Testing positive for drug or alcohol use at the initial medical visit
- The doctor's exam does not match up with the information on the accident report
- Returning to work before you have been medically cleared to do so
- A workers' comp doctor reports injuries that are inconsistent with the original accident report
- No one witnessed the accident that caused your injury
- You failed to fill out an accident report or report the injury to your employer within 120 days of the accident
- You were laid off or fired before you filed your workers' compensation claim
- You did not sign medical authorizations or refused to provide a statement to the insurance company
Being denied workers' compensation when you are injured can be a frustrating experience, but you do have options if your initial claim is denied.
Fortunately, even if your initial claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the state's decision regarding your case.