The workers’ compensation process may seem straightforward initially. If you sustain an injury at work, you file a claim, receive reimbursement for medical expenses, and potentially secure benefits if the injury results in temporary or permanent disability. However, the reality can often be more complex, especially if your employer complicates the process.
Let’s explore some reasons an employer might complicate the workers’ compensation claim process. If you need expert legal assistance in employment law and workers’ compensation, don’t hesitate to contact PLBH at (800) 435-7542.
Impact on Insurance Premiums
An employer’s workers’ compensation insurance cost is influenced by several factors, including the number and value of claims submitted. Hence, an employer keen on keeping insurance rates low might be dismayed by another workers’ compensation claim, especially a costly one. This is not a valid reason to deny a claim yet it could potentially happen every day.
Potential Employer Bias
Sometimes, an employer, or specific individuals like managers and supervisors, may have biases towards a claim based on the nature of the injury or the injured individual. This is particularly common with “invisible” injuries and cumulative trauma injuries.
For instance, if an employee experiences severe back pain after lifting a box, the injury may not be evident to an observer. The injury might seem exaggerated, and if management doesn’t take it seriously, the employee might be encouraged to “endure the pain.”
Similar scenarios may occur with cumulative injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling aren’t necessarily apparent on x-rays or other imaging, leading to potential dismissal of the complaint.
It’s essential to remember that an injury’s difficulty to visually verify doesn’t negate its validity or eligibility for workers’ compensation. Ignoring your symptoms or attempting to work through the pain can compromise your claim and potentially lead to denial of benefits.
Don’t Give Up on Your Claim
If you encounter employer resistance in processing your workers’ compensation claim, it’s critical to seek help from a specialist who will respectfully address your injuries. By engaging a workers’ compensation attorney, you can ensure your claim is properly managed from beginning to end. At PLBH, we possess extensive experience in workers’ compensation claims, offering you the best chance of swift approval with appropriate benefits.
The next step is to contact an employment law attorney by calling PLBH at (800) 435-7542. We are here to help you through this process.