Getting injured while you're at work can be alarming-- no one expects to get hurt while on the job. Employers are required to carry workers compensation insurance, which is designed to cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses in the event that an employee is injured while on the clock. While most workers compensation claims are approved and taken care of without any issues, some claims are denied. Some of the most common reasons for a workers compensation claim to be denied include:

Failing to Notify Your Employer of the Injury

If you are ever hurt while on the clock at work, it is very important to immediately inform your direct supervisor and fill out an incident report. Failure to notify your employer of your injury can make it difficult for the accident to be investigated, which means that you will have little proof that your injury actually happened at work. In many cases, if you don't have evidence that you were hurt on the job, the insurance company can deny your claim. 

Being Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol at the Time of Injury

Almost all workers compensation insurance policies refuse to approve a workers comp claim if the injured employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident. The vast majority of employers require an employee to be tested for the presence of drugs or alcohol in their system when being treated for injuries, and a positive test can disqualify your claim.

Seeking Medical Care from an Unapproved Provider

When you're ill or need medical assistance, you're free to see your own doctor. But in matters of workplace injury, most employers and insurance companies require an injured employee to see a specific doctor who specializes in workplace injuries and workers compensation cases. In the event that you are injured at work, it is extremely important to consult your supervisor or the HR department to find out where you need to go to receive approved medical treatment so your workers comp claim can be approved.

Neglecting to File a Claim on Time

There are deadlines for filing a workers compensation claim, and if you're hurt at work, it is essential to file a claim in a timely manner. The best thing to do is file a claim right away-- if you neglect to do so and miss the specific deadline for filing a claim, you will have little recourse. 

For more information and tips, contact an experienced workers compensation attorney. 

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