Getting hurt on the job is never good, but a workplace injury can lead to financial hardships. For example, if you are too injured to work, it could severely impact your ability to provide for your family.
Fortunately, a workers’ compensation claim can help secure your economic circumstances and pay for the medical care you need. However, there is always a risk that your claim will not pass muster with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC). Below are three reasons the BWC may reject your claim.
Your employer disputes the injury
The word of employers may carry weight with the BWC. If your employer can show that your injury does not qualify for workers’ comp or that you did not suffer any harm, the BWC could deny your claim. Some employers may even lie about employee injuries to avoid potential financial hardships.
You waited too long
Sometimes, injuries are not serious enough for claim in the immediate aftermath. However, some can worsen over time, and the employee may need to obtain benefits later. You only have one year to file your claim in Ohio (two years for occupational illnesses), so be sure to do so before that time expires.
You have insufficient medical evidence
The BWC needs proof of your injury, its effects and its necessary treatment before it issues any benefits. That means you must have a detailed medical record associated with your workplace injury. If you fail to provide sufficient medical evidence, claim denial is possible.
On the upside, it is usually possible to obtain workers’ compensation even after an initial problem or mistake with your claim. Legal guidance may help to ensure success, especially if an employer’s wrongdoing led to the denial.