Filing a workers’ compensation claim should be straightforward. You get hurt on the job, report it, and receive benefits while you recover. But for many employees, the reality looks very different. Claims get denied. Benefits get delayed. And injured workers are left scrambling for answers when they should be focused on healing.

In a city like Los Angeles, where industries range from film and fashion to manufacturing and construction, workplace accidents can happen in countless ways. The fast-paced work environments, long hours, and pressure to perform only increase the risk of injury—and make it even more important that workers understand their legal rights.

When a claim is denied, having a qualified workplace accident attorney in Los Angeles becomes critical. An attorney who knows the system can help determine what went wrong, how to fix it, and how to make sure your claim gets a fair review.

Before you find yourself in a denied-claim situation, it’s helpful to understand the most common reasons this happens—and what you can do to avoid them.

1. You Didn’t Report the Injury on Time

Timing is everything in workers’ compensation cases. Most states have strict deadlines—sometimes as short as 30 days—to notify your employer of a work-related injury. Failing to report the incident within that window gives insurance companies a reason to question the legitimacy of your claim.

Even if you think your injury is minor, report it immediately. What seems like a simple strain or headache could turn into something much more serious over time.

2. You Didn’t Seek Medical Attention Promptly

Delaying a doctor’s visit can hurt your case more than your body. Insurance companies often use gaps in treatment as a reason to deny claims. They may argue that your injury wasn’t severe—or that it wasn’t work-related.

Get checked out as soon as possible, even if you feel “okay.” Documenting your injury early builds a clear medical record that can support your claim if things get complicated later.

3. There Were No Witnesses or Supporting Evidence

Injuries that occur without witnesses—or without physical evidence like surveillance footage or equipment logs—can raise red flags during a claim review. That doesn’t mean your claim will automatically be denied, but it does mean your case might need stronger documentation.

If no one saw the incident, write down exactly what happened and notify your supervisor right away. Taking photos of the scene or your injury can also help strengthen your account.

4. The Insurance Company Questions the Legitimacy of Your Injury

Insurance companies are always on the lookout for fraud. If your claim lacks medical evidence, shows inconsistencies, or is filed after you’ve left the job, they may argue that your injury didn’t happen at work—or that you’re exaggerating.

That’s why consistency is crucial. Be honest about your symptoms. Follow your doctor’s instructions. And keep detailed records of your appointments, communications, and any work limitations your physician recommends.

Final Thoughts

Getting hurt on the job is stressful enough. Having your workers’ compensation claim denied only adds to the frustration. But with the right legal support and attention to detail, denials can often be challenged—or avoided entirely.

If your claim has been denied or you’re unsure about the process, don’t try to figure it out alone. Connect with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the system, protect your rights, and help you get the benefits you’re entitled to. You deserve that much.