Injured at Work and Denied Benefits? You Still Have Options
When you are hurt, out of work and counting on your workers’ compensation claim being approved, a denial can be frustrating and stressful. The good news is a denial doesn’t mean your case is over. In Pennsylvania, you can appeal a denied workers’ comp claim and fight for the medical care and lost wages you deserve.
At Files Injury Lawyers, we help workers throughout Levittown and Bucks County whose claims have been unfairly denied. Here’s what you should do next.
Why Your Claim Might Be Denied in Pennsylvania?
The law protects injured workers, but insurance companies often try to avoid paying. Here are some common reasons workers’ comp claims get denied:
- You didn’t report your injury quickly enough
- The insurance company says your injury wasn’t job-related
- They say your medical records don’t prove it’s serious
- Your employer doesn’t back up your claim
It may not seem fair, but it happens often. That’s why it’s important to know your next steps.
Step 1: Read the Denial Notice Thoroughly
If your claim is denied, the insurance company must send you a Notice of Compensation Denial. This letter explains why they are not paying benefits.
Here’s what to do:
- Read the letter closely
- Look at what they’re saying is missing or wrong
- Start gathering any medical records, doctor notes, or reports you already have
Having this information ready will help you when you appeal.
Step 2: File a Claim Petition to Start the Appeal
In Pennsylvania, if your claim is denied, you can file a Claim Petition with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. This lets a judge review your case.
What you need to know:
- You have up to 3 years from the date of injury to file
- You’ll get a hearing in front of a Workers’ Compensation Judge
- To your hearing, you can bring medical evidence, witnesses, or a doctor’s opinion
This hearing is your chance to show the Judge that your claim is based off of a genuine, work- related injury and that you deserve workers’ compensation benefits.
Step 3: Use Strong Medical and Work Evidence
When you appeal, you need more than your word. You must provide proof, and having a good lawyer can make a big difference.
Helpful evidence includes:
- Medical records from your doctor
- Notes that show your restrictions or time off work
- Witnesses from your job who saw what happened
- Information about your work duties
An experienced attorney can collect this evidence and present it effectively for your case.
Step 4: What If the Judge Still Says No?
If the judge denies your appeal, you still have more options:
1. Appeal to the Workers’ Compensation Appeal Board
You have 20 days to file this appeal. It’s a review of the judge’s decision.
2. Appeal to the Commonwealth Court
If you lose again, you have 30 days to take it to this higher court.
These steps can be more complicated, but they are available if your case needs another review. Your lawyer will guide you through each stage.
For a detailed explanation, the PA Workers’ Compensation Act outlines these rights clearly for injured workers.
Why Having a Denied Claim Attorney Helps
The process can be confusing, and insurance companies know that. A skilled attorney can help by:
- Reviewing your denial letter and appeal deadlines
- Gathering strong medical proof and work documentation
- Representing you at hearings so you don’t have to go it alone
- Fighting back when the insurer or employer tries to block your claim
When your income and recovery are on the line, having help can make all the difference.
Don’t Wait — Let Us Help You Get Back on Track
If your workers’ comp claim was denied, you’re not alone. Many people in your shoes have won their cases on appeal with the right support.
The Law Office of Kaitlin Files is here to fight for injured workers across Levittown, Bucks County, and nearby communities. We’ll guide you every step of the way and make sure your voice is heard.
📞 Call: (215) 509-5276
🌐 Visit: filesinjurylawyers.com
📍 Location: 2346 Trenton Rd,Suite E, Levittown, PA 19056
Your benefits matter. We’re here to fight for them.