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Suffering an injury on the job is stressful enough, but when your employer denies that your injury occurred at work, the situation becomes even more frustrating and overwhelming. Unfortunately, this is not uncommon. Many injured workers in California find themselves facing pushback when they try to file a workers’ compensation claim.
At Hanning & Sacchetto LLP, our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Whittier help injured employees fight back when their employers or insurance companies try to deny responsibility. If your claim has been challenged, here’s what you need to know—and how to protect your right to compensation.
Why California Employers Deny Work-Related Injury Claims
There are several reasons an employer might dispute whether your injury happened on the job:
- They believe the injury occurred off the clock or outside the workplace.
- They claim you were not performing work-related duties at the time.
- They suspect fraud or exaggeration.
- They’re trying to avoid increased insurance premiums or liability.
Sometimes, the denial may stem from incomplete information or a misunderstanding. In other cases, it may be a deliberate attempt to avoid paying benefits.
You Still Have a Right to File a California Workers’ Compensation Claim
Even if your employer denies that the injury happened at work, you still have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim in California. The state’s workers’ compensation system is designed to protect injured employees and provide them with medical care and wage replacement, even when disputes arise.
Once you file a claim, your employer’s insurance company must investigate the facts and issue a formal decision. If the claim is denied, you can challenge that denial through the California Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC).
How to Strengthen Your California Workers’ Compensation Case
If your claim is disputed, it’s crucial to take action quickly.
Here are some steps to help support your case:
- Report the Injury Immediately: Notify your employer in writing as soon as possible. Include the date, time, location, and how it occurred.
- Seek Medical Attention Right Away: Tell the doctor your injury is work-related, and follow all treatment instructions.
- Document Everything: Keep copies of accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and any correspondence with your employer.
- Speak to a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer: An experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of getting your claim approved.
At Hanning & Sacchetto, we help clients gather evidence, prepare for hearings, and advocate aggressively for their rights. We can also help you request a Qualified Medical Evaluation (QME) to assess your injury if your employer disputes the cause or severity.
Don’t Let a Denial Stop You From Getting the Benefits You Deserve
Just because your employer questions whether your injury was work-related doesn’t mean your claim is over. You still have legal options—and the right team can help you fight back and win.
If your California employer denies workplace injury, call (562) 280-2095 or contact our experienced Los Angeles County workers’ compensation attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto online. We’ll help you navigate the claims process and stand up for your right to fair and full compensation.