Workers Compensation Claim Denial in Minnesota
The Minnesota Workers Compensation Law requires all employers in the state to carry workers’ compensation insurance or become self-insured. And while this insurance provides much-needed benefits to employees injured in a workplace accident, it doesn’t guarantee that claims won’t be wrongfully denied.
Dealing with a denied workers’ compensation claim can be incredibly stressful and confusing. It’s natural to feel frustrated and uncertain about what to do next. For many Minnesotans, workers’ compensation benefits are a lifeline after a workplace injury, covering bills for medical treatment and providing financial support during recovery. A denial can leave you wondering about your options and rights.
The good news is that a denied claim doesn’t have to be the end of the road. By understanding the appeals process and taking the right steps, you can fight for the compensation you deserve. An experienced attorney can help you overcome these challenges and secure the benefits you’re entitled to.
At Mottaz & Sisk Injury and Minnesota Workers Compensation Lawyers, we have years of knowledge and industry experience. Call us at 763-421-8226 today for your free consultation.
Workers’ Comp Claim Denied? Take These Six Steps:
Here are six steps you should take if your workers’ comp claim gets denied in Minnesota.
Don’t Panic, Act Quickly
It’s understandable to feel anxious if your worker’s comp claim gets denied, but try not to panic. There are things you can do to get your claim reconsidered. The first step is to act quickly, as there are deadlines for appealing denied claims. In Minnesota, you typically have 30 days from the date of receiving your denial letter to start your appeal. Get the appeals process started right away to avoid running out of time.
Understand Why Your Claim Was Denied
Carefully review your denial letter so you understand the exact reason your claim was rejected. It is important that you contact a workers comp lawyer in Minnesota to discuss your claim denied. Common reasons for denying workers comp claims include:
- Insufficient evidence you were injured at work
- Injuries being pre-existing or not work-related
- Missing deadlines to report injuries or file paperwork
- More technical reasons
Knowing the specific denial codes and reasons cited will make it easier to appeal.
Gather Additional Evidence
The best way to overturn a workers comp denial is by providing strong supplemental evidence proving your injuries are work-related and you deserve benefits. Helpful evidence can include witness statements from coworkers, accident reports, updated medical records clearly diagnosing your condition, photos or videos from your workplace, and a letter of support from your doctor. Be as detailed as possible.
Consider Hiring a Workers Comp Attorney
An experienced workers comp attorney can often get wrongly denied claims reversed. They know how to effectively navigate the appeals system and make persuasive arguments for why you deserve benefits. Especially if your case gets more complex or goes to court, having an attorney greatly improves your odds. Many workers comp lawyers work on contingency fees, meaning no upfront costs to you.
File an Appeal with the State
In Minnesota, your first appeal will be directly through your employer’s insurance company. However, if those appeals don’t work, you can take your case to the state Workers’ Compensation Division. Filing an official appeal, starts a review by administrative judges who can overturn claim denials after evaluating evidence and medical expert testimony. This is required before you can take legal action.
Consider a Civil Lawsuit
If your workers’ comp claim continues getting denied after multiple rounds of appeals, the last resort is filing a civil lawsuit against your employer. This brings your dispute into district court, where a judge or jury can award you financial damages related to your work injuries if the evidence warrants it. However, lawsuits should be a last choice due to the time, legal expenses, and uncertain outcomes involved with litigation.
By understanding why your workers’ comp was denied, compiling strong medical evidence of your qualifying injuries, utilizing attorney knowledge, and persistently appealing through every avenue available, many initially denied claims eventually get overturned. Don’t give up hope. Follow these key steps for the best chance of success in pursuing the benefits you deserve.
What's at Stake: Your Workers' Compensation Benefits
For injured workers, workers’ compensation benefits are essential for recovery and stability after a workplace injury. These benefits ensure access to necessary medical treatment, provide financial support, and help protect your future. When employers or insurers deny compensation, it can leave you struggling to meet your needs. Understanding what’s at stake is the first step toward securing fair compensation.
- Medical Benefits: Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses related to your injury, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and medications. It’s vital to document all treatments and submit them for reimbursement.
- Wage Loss Benefits: If your injury affects your ability to work, you could receive wage loss benefits. Temporary Total Disability (TTD) applies when you’re unable to work entirely, while Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) compensates for reduced earnings if you work in a limited capacity.
- Permanent Disability Benefits: For injuries resulting in permanent conditions, you may qualify for benefits based on the severity of your disability and its impact on your employment.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you can’t return to your previous job, services like job training and placement can support your career transition.
These benefits safeguard injured workers and provide the means to rebuild. If you’re facing a claim denial, protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I work light duty while appealing a workers comp denial?
Yes, in many cases you can work light or modified duty while going through the appeals process, as long as your doctor says you’re capable. This allows you to earn some income while disputing your denied claim.
