If you’re injured at work, you may be eligible for financial restitution through the employer-sponsored workers’ compensation program.
Unfortunately, not all workers’ compensation claims go through. Sometimes, both your employer and the insurance company may dispute your claim. And as you can imagine, a denied workers’ comp claim can leave you with a huge medical bill among other losses.
Here are two common reasons why workers’ comp claims fail to go through.
When you miss important deadlines
Workers’ compensation claims have very tight timelines. This is meant to prevent fraudulent claims and discourage employees from popping up several years down the road to demand payment for unexplainable injuries.
If you are hurt while at work in Illinois, you need to notify your employer in writing within 45 days from the date of the injury. Next, you need to file your claim within the statute of limitations period. And this is three years from the date of your injury or when it is reasonably discovered. Missing these deadlines can lead to your claim’s denial.
When you can’t prove that your injuries are work-related
Workers’ comp, as the name suggests, is meant to compensate workers who are hurt while at work or while advancing employers’ interests. This is why you need to notify your employer about your injuries as soon as possible.
Besides notifying your employer of your injuries, it is extremely important that you seek treatment so your injuries can be properly documented.
Workers’ comp protects both employers and employees alike. However, there are times when a seemingly valid claim can be denied. Learning more about Illinois workers’ comp laws can help you avoid costly mistakes that can lead to your claim’s refusal.
