What Should I Do If My Employer Says My Injury Didn’t Happen at Work?

Having your employer question whether your injury happened on the job can be frustrating, especially when you’re trying to recover. Fortunately, simply because your employer disputes your claim does not mean your workers’ compensation case is over.

California’s workers’ compensation system is designed to investigate disputed claims and determine whether an injury is work-related based on the available evidence.

Report the Injury Immediately

One of the most important things you can do is report your injury as soon as possible. Delays in reporting can make it easier for an employer or insurance company to argue that the injury occurred somewhere else or happened after work.

Be sure to provide accurate details about when, where, and how the injury occurred.

Seek Medical Treatment

Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates documentation linking your injury to your workplace accident. Be honest with your medical provider about how the injury happened and describe your symptoms completely.

Medical records often become important evidence during a disputed claim.

Gather Supporting Evidence

If your employer denies that the injury occurred at work, collect any information that may support your claim, including:

– Witness statements from coworkers

– Accident reports

– Photographs of the accident scene

– Emails or text messages discussing the incident

– Medical records documenting your injury

The more evidence available, the easier it may be to establish what happened.

Don’t Assume a Denial Is Final

Many legitimate workers’ compensation claims are initially questioned or denied. That does not necessarily mean benefits will be permanently denied. Additional medical evidence, witness testimony, or other documentation may help resolve the dispute.

Contact Thomas F. Martin, PLC

If your employer or the insurance company claims your injury did not happen at work, don’t assume you have no options. Thomas F. Martin, PLC has spent decades helping injured California workers navigate disputed claims and understand their rights under California workers’ compensation law. If your claim has been challenged, Thomas F. Martin, PLC can evaluate your situation, answer your questions, and help you determine the best course of action to protect your rights and pursue the benefits you may be entitled to receive.

Free 30-minute case evaluation

(714) 547-5025