Workers Comp Denial in Minnesota
Dealing with a denied workers compensation claim can be incredibly stressful and confusing. You may have injuries that prevent you from working, mounting medical bills, and no income to pay them. Trying to navigate the appeals process alone can seem daunting.
At Mottaz & Sisk Injury and Work Compensation Lawyers we have years of knowledge and industry experience. Call us at 763-421-8226 today for your free consultation.
Here are 6 steps you should take if your workers comp claim gets denied in Minnesota.
Don’t Panic, Act Quickly
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:
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Insufficient evidence you were injured at work
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Injuries being pre-existing or not work-related
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Missing deadlines to report injuries or file paperwork
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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
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.
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.
2. Will I need to see an insurance company doctor?
3. Is there a deadline to file a workers comp appeal?
4. Can I represent myself in my workers comp appeal?
5. Will hiring a workers comp lawyer cost me money?
Selecting a Workers Comp Lawyer in Minnesota
Mottaz & Sisk Injury Law has 20+ experience dealing with worker’s compensation matters. Please call us at 763-421-8226 for a free consultation if you have experienced a work related injury.