You have certain rights as a worker who gets hurt on the job in Missouri. Generally speaking, the right to claim workers’ compensation is among your most basic rights after an accident on the job, along with the right to reasonable accommodations by your employer to help you stay at or return to work.
Unfortunately, there are situations in which workers with valid claims for compensation wind up facing a denial because of the policies of the insurance company or contention by their employer. What rights and options do you have if you don’t receive the immediate approval of a claim for benefits?
The state will assist you with conflict resolution
Missouri will actually provide trained mentors to help you work with your employer or the insurance company to resolve disputes that affect your workers’ compensation benefits. Having an attorney present will help you avoid making mistakes in what you say and will also provide you with someone who can advocate for you and negotiate for the best possible outcome in a difficult and stressful situation.
You may have to pursue litigation
If mediation doesn’t help you find a solution that works for you and your employer or if either you or they choose not to agree to mediation, you may have to go to court to get the benefits you need during your recovery.
Again, having an attorney present to understand the law and the paperwork involved can go a long way toward improving your chances of success when pushing back against the denial of benefits you need as an injured worker, especially if you wind up going to court.