In an ideal world, workers who are hurt while in the course of their employer-sanctioned duties should be eligible for compensation for the resulting damages. And this is precisely why the Ohio workers’ compensation system is in place. Unfortunately, not all injured workers get compensated for their injuries.
This can leave you on your own to deal with a hefty medical bill as well as other damages. But why would a seemingly credible workers’ comp claim be turned down by your employer’s insurance company as well as the court?
Here are three questions that can help you understand why your Ohio workers’ comp was denied.
Did you miss important deadlines?
Time is of the essence when dealing with any legal matter, including workers’ compensation claims. According to Ohio statute, you need to let your employer know about your injury in writing as soon as possible. Next, you need to file your claim within one year from the date of your injury. A delay in notifying your employer or going to court can lead to your claim’s denial.
Did your injuries really happen at work?
Workers’ compensation claims are designed to compensate workers who are hurt at work or while performing employer-approved duties. In other words, you must have sustained your injuries in the “course of your work” or they must have “arisen” from your work. This means that injuries that happen while you are traveling to or from work or during your lunch break might not be eligible for workers’ compensation.
Did you seek treatment after the alleged workplace accident?
If you are hurt, it is only natural that you see a doctor as soon as possible. If you delay seeking treatment, both your employer and the insurance company might doubt the validity of your claim. Besides, you will not obtain a medical report that links your injuries to the workplace accident in question.
A denied workers’ compensation claim can be quite devastating. Find out how you can avoid missteps that can lead to your claim’s denial.