Workers' compensation claims in Missouri are commonly denied for failing to report the injury in writing within 30 days, lack of medical evidence, pre-existing conditions, positive alcohol or drug tests, and arguments over the injury having occurred in the course of employment. Sometimes, injured workers are denied their claims in Missouri because the insurer claims the injury doesn't meet the definition of a workplace accident.
Workers' compensation insurance companies deny claims from injured workers in St. Louis for a variety of reasons. In some cases, it is due to employees not being aware that they have to meet a strict deadline for reporting. If you are hurt at work, you must issue a written notice to your employer within 30 days of your workplace injury.
Other times, an employer's workers' comp insurer will argue whether the injury happened during work duties, while on break, or while the employee is traveling for work. Insufficient medical evidence is another common reason for denial as the insurer needs documentation that links the injury directly to the workplace accident.
Those who have pre-existing conditions are commonly denied by insurers as they will argue that your injury is not new and was from your prior medical issue. Failing a drug or alcohol test is one thing that will result in an automatic denial.
Does a workers' comp denial affect future claims in Missouri? Questions like these and understanding how to handle a denied workers' comp claim are why you should speak with the St. Louis workers' compensation attorneys at The Bruning Law Firm. Our legal team helps you know your rights and options, and fights to get you the money you deserve for your injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Missouri workers’ comp claim is denied?
Knowing how to fight a denied workers' comp claim can help you get the benefits you deserve for your workplace injuries. When you receive a written explanation, it will detail the reason a denial was issued on your claim. You can then file a Claim for Compensation with the Missouri Division of Workers' Compensation and request a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) to hear your appeal.
What is the deadline for filing a workers’ comp claim in Missouri?
While you must report your injury to your employer within 30 days and do so in writing, you have longer to file a formal claim with the state of Missouri. Generally, filing the formal claim allows you to have 2 years from the date of your injury or from the last payment of medical bills.
Can I see my own doctor if my claim is denied?
Your employer or their workers' compensation insurer will choose the doctor. If your claim is denied, you might need to rely on your personal health insurance to get treatment. This can be reimbursed later if you file and win an appeal. How long do I have to appeal a workers' comp denial in Missouri? That's another question the St. Louis workers' comp lawyers at The Bruning Law Firm can answer while working to help you win your appeal.
Contact The Bruning Law Firm
The Bruning Law Firm helps injured workers with their Missouri workers' comp cases by showing them their rights and options when claims are denied and fighting for their maximum recovery. There is no fee unless we win, so call (314) 735-8100 for a free consultation with a St. Louis workers' compensation lawyer.