Not everyone injured on the job has a smooth process when claiming workers’ compensation benefits. Some claims, even legitimate ones, get denied for various reasons.
If your claim is denied, you may be left in a financially uncertain position, especially when your injuries prevent you from working for a considerable time. Below are some of the most common reasons a claim could be denied.
Your injuries arose outside the scope of your employment
Workers’ compensation benefits are only available for employees injured in the line of duty. If your injuries occurred while you were performing activities outside your work duties or responsibilities, your claim is likely to be dismissed.
You missed some deadlines
In Iowa, you have 90 days to notify your employer of a workplace accident. If you do not inform them within this time, you may miss out on any benefits.
Similarly, you cannot claim any benefits two years after you suffered a workplace accident.
Disputes around the circumstances of the accident
You might have been injured while performing your work duties, but the circumstances that led to your accident matter. For instance, if you were intoxicated or ignored obvious safety measures when the accident happened, it could hurt your claim.
There was no employer-employee relationship
Workers’ compensation benefits are only available to employees, not independent contractors. If no such relationship exists, you may not be eligible for compensation benefits.
Pre-existing conditions
If work-related activities aggravate a pre-existing injury, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, if the condition was naturally worsening and had nothing to do with your job, it might not be possible to claim compensation.
A denied claim can be heartbreaking and quite frustrating, more so if it is valid. Therefore, it is worthwhile to learn more about how the claims process works to prevent any hitches after you suffer a workplace accident. When done right, the claims process should not be complicated, and you can rest assured that you will get the benefits you deserve.
