You got hurt at work, which would be upsetting enough on its own. Unfortunately, your employer has decided to deny your workers’ compensation claim. You might feel a sense of hopelessness about how you will cover your costs or anger that your employer would put you in this situation.
There are many reasons why a workers’ compensation claim denial could happen. For example, maybe someone in the office didn’t file your report properly after your injury. Other times, the company could be trying to avoid paying out on your claim to keep costs low. A workers’ compensation claim could increase the amount of premium your employer pays for the insurance that protects the staff.
Regardless of what the reason is, you should look into your right to appeal that initial denial. New Jersey protects workers by ensuring they can seek a second opinion and review any denial of a workers’ compensation claim.
Every worker in New Jersey has the right to appeal a claim denial
Finding out that your claim for workers’ compensation got denied is stressful and upsetting. However, if you understand your rights, including your right to file an appeal, you will know you still have options.
You may think that appealing an initial denial would be a waste of your time, but, in fact, your chances are relatively good at securing your compensation through such an appeal. An analysis performed by insurance companies found that 70% of initially denied claims wind up approved through the appeal process. What’s more, the individuals who go through the appeals process can often secure more compensation than they would have with their initial claim, sometimes as much as 50% more.
An appeal helps you connect with the benefits you need
The benefits available through workers’ compensation include 100% medical coverage, which can make your medical care more affordable, as well as temporary and permanent disability benefits. Those benefits are often critical for closing the financial gap created by your inability to continue working full-time after a workplace injury or illness.
You shouldn’t have to worry about how you will pay for your medical bills or cover your basic expenses because you got hurt at work. That is why workers’ compensation coverage exists. When your employer wrongfully denies your claim, appealing to get those benefits protects not only you, but also your family.
Workers’ compensation helps you pay your bills while you’re recovering from an injury. It can also help your family make ends meet if you wind up permanently disabled at work.
Regardless of what your situation is, you have the right to pursue the benefits you have earned through working for so many years. Talking with an attorney who has experience with workers’ compensation claims could help you achieve your desired outcome in the appeals process.