The Missouri workers’ compensation system is designed to be “no-fault,” meaning you are entitled to compensation regardless of who is responsible. The insurance company should pay these benefits whether you were at fault for your injury or not. Unfortunately, employers and their insurance companies constantly find excuses to deny workers’ compensation claims despite this supposed no-fault system.
If your claim was denied, you have legal options to consider. With the help of our trusted workers’ compensation attorneys at OnderLaw, you may still be able to get the benefits you deserve. If your claim is rejected, consult with a knowledgeable Brentwood workers’ compensation denial lawyer at our firm. Guidance from our supportive legal professionals can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim.
There are various reasons why an employer or their insurance company might deny a workers’ compensation claim. Some of these denials might be valid, but many are simply attempts to avoid paying a worker what they are owed. Our experienced Brentwood attorneys can help determine when workers’ compensation denials are made in bad faith. Some common reasons for denials in these cases include the following:
Often, a denial is related to allegations that the worker’s injury occurred before their workplace accident. While preexisting conditions are not covered, a worker could be entitled to benefits if an incident on the job worsens a preexisting condition.
There are certain rules that an injured worker has to comply with to file their claim successfully. Specifically, an injured worker must notify their employer within 30 days of the injury happening. There are also requirements related to complying with requests from company doctors that could result in a denial.
Workers’ compensation benefits are only available for injuries that occur within the scope of employment. That means a person who was off the clock or running a personal errand at the time of their injury might not be covered.
It is not uncommon for employers to reject these claims when there is evidence that the injured worker was impaired at the time of the accident. This impairment could result from drugs or alcohol.
A denial is not always the end of a workers’ compensation claim. There is a process for appealing these decisions, which is often successful. A committed Brentwood workers’ compensation denial attorney at OnderLaw can help you navigate the appeals process. We know this is about much more than a claim—this is your life—and we will help you fight for what is right.
To start the appeals process in Brentwood, you have to provide written notice of the appeal to the Missouri Labor Commission within 21 days of the claim denial.
There are different levels for the appellate process. For example, you could appeal again if the Labor Commission rules in favor of your employer. The Missouri Court of Appeals could hear higher-level appeals.
You have only 30 days to appeal a decision issued by the Labor Commission. Because of the many steps involved in the appeals process, it is wise to retain an experienced lawyer to help you navigate it successfully. At OnderLaw, we don’t just take on cases; we take on causes. Let us take on yours.
The workers’ compensation appeals process can involve a complicated web of deadlines. If your claim has been denied, your appeal window is limited.
Do not put your workers’ compensation claim at risk by failing to appeal your denial promptly. Reach out to a Brentwood workers’ compensation denial lawyer at OnderLaw today for guidance with your claim. We are here to help you pursue the benefits you need and deserve to fully recover from your workplace accident.
