The workers’ comp claims process

Accidents can happen on any jobsite, and employees may suffer anything from sprains, burns, broken bones, repetitive stress injuries, severe respiratory illnesses or a host of other issues. When one of these incidents occurs, an employee may have a valid worker’s compensation claim. However, there are some specific steps that must be followed.

Claiming workers’ compensation benefits

The vital first step involves the employee reporting the injury to their supervisor. Those who wait too long before doing so could jeopardize their claim.

The next critical step involves seeking medical attention for the injury. The medical examination may produce medical records verifying the injury.

The employer then submits a claims package based on information made available to them. The submission must be thorough and detailed. The employee receives a copy of the package offered to the carrier and can review it for thoroughness or accuracy.

The claim will move to the processing phase. Soon afterward, the carrier approves or denies the claim.

Addressing problems with claims

Submitting a worker’s compensation claim requires attention to detail and accuracy. If there are any problems with the claim, a denial may result. Those struggling with the stress of missing work and recovering from a potentially serious condition do not need the added stress of a denial letter. Providing a thorough and complete application, including all supporting evidence, could work in the claimant’s favor.

Filing an appeal after a Connecticut workers’ comp denial could overcome any challenges to the initial claim. As with the first submission, an appeal must address pertinent points and provide evidence.

An employer might challenge a workers’ compensation claim, but that does not mean the worker cannot overcome the denial. The worker may prove the employer is entirely wrong, and the claim could go forward.