Not all workers’ compensation claims are approved. In some cases, a denial is for reasons that you can’t do much about.
Yet, in most cases, your actions as a claimant can play a big role in whether your claim succeeds or not. Here are some mistakes that could see an otherwise valid claim denied:
You did not meet the required deadlines
In Iowa, you have 90 days to tell your employer of your injury. Your claim may be denied if you don’t and they have not become aware of it through some other means within that time frame. To make sure, it’s best to tell them yourself.
Your employer must then file a report with the Iowa Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC) within four days. Yet you shouldn’t just assume they have done it, as you only have two years to file with the DWC yourself if you have not yet received disability benefits. You may still be able to claim medical benefits for a while longer.
You did not get or follow medical advice
A doctor’s opinion and report will be crucial to your claim. Seeing them straight away helps you pin your injuries to the specific workplace event. If you don’t, insurers may claim you incurred your injuries away from work. You also need to ensure you follow the doctor’s orders, as going against their advice could also jeopardize your claim.
Getting the workers’ compensation you need after an injury is not always a straightforward process. Getting help to understand the rules reduces the chance of a denial that could be easily avoided.
