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. 

1. Don’t Panic, Act Quickly

It’s understandable to feel anxious if your workers 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 your denial letter to start your appeal. Get the appeals process started right away to avoid running out of time.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. File an Appeal with the State

In Minnesota, your first appeals 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 there 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.

6. 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?

Probably. Expect that the insurer will require you to be examined by a doctor they choose, who will write a report about your injuries that often influences judges. You need to attend, but do not have to agree with the findings.

3. Is there a deadline to file a workers comp appeal?

Yes, strict deadlines do apply. You typically have 30 days after initially being denied workers comp to start your first appeal with your employer’s insurer. At each subsequent denial, quickly appeal again before time limits expire.

4. Can I represent myself in my workers comp appeal?

Technically yes, but it’s very challenging for non-lawyers to effectively argue appeals, especially once they reach the courts. At least consult an attorney to understand your chances – lawyers often increase success rates significantly.

5. Will hiring a workers comp lawyer cost me money?

Typically not upfront. Most attorneys take workers comp cases on contingency, meaning they only collect a percentage fee if they win your case or secure a settlement. Initial consultations are also often free. Just make sure to clarify costs.

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.