Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims in Columbia

When your workers’ compensation claim is denied, it can feel like the rug’s been pulled out from under you. You did everything right—reported the injury, saw the doctor, and kept up with your medical treatment—but now the insurance company is saying no. 

You’re not alone. Denials happen more often than most people realize, and many can be successfully appealed. At Lee Injury Law, we help injured workers across South Carolina challenge unfair denials and fight for the benefits they deserve. 

Below, you’ll find practical guidance on why workers’ comp claims get denied, what to do next, and how our workers’ compensation attorney team can help you move forward. 

Denied Workers’ Comp Claims May Be Appealed 

If you’ve received a denial letter, take a deep breath. A denial is not necessarily the end of your case. It’s a setback, but one that can be corrected with the right evidence and approach. The first step is understanding why your claim was denied. Once you know the reason, you can begin addressing it and planning your appeal.

Why a Workers’ Compensation Claim May Be Denied 

Insurance companies deny claims for many reasons. Sometimes these reasons are valid; sometimes not. Here are some of the most common explanations:

Even if one of these reasons applies, that doesn’t mean the decision is final. With the right documentation and legal help, many denied claims can be overturned. 

What Percentage of Workers’ Comp Claims Get Denied? 

According to national studies, around 20% of workers’ compensation claims are initially denied each year. In South Carolina, the percentage varies by job type and injury. Still, denials are not uncommon, especially when medical evidence is unclear or deadlines are missed. The key thing to remember is that many denied claims are later approved on appeal. 

Can an Employer Deny a Workers’ Comp Claim?

Your employer can dispute your claim, but they don’t make the final decision. That authority rests with the South Carolina Workers’ Compensation Commission (SCWCC). The Commission reviews evidence from both sides and determines whether benefits should be awarded. 

That’s why having someone who knows how the SCWCC operates and what proof they require can make a significant difference in your case. 

What To Do If Your Claim Was Denied in South Carolina

If your workers’ comp claim got denied don’t give up. You’ve still got options, and we can help.

Here’s what to do next:

1. Read the denial letter. It should tell you why the claim was turned down — and that’s the first step toward fighting back.
2. Get your records together. Grab your medical reports, accident paperwork, and anything you’ve gotten from your employer or the insurance company.
3. Watch the clock. There are strict deadlines for appeals, so don’t wait too long.
4. Talk to a workers’ comp lawyer. Not every firm does this kind of work every day — but we do. At Lee Injury Law, workers’ comp isn’t a side project. It’s what we’re built for.

We’ve helped people all across South Carolina take their claims through the Workers’ Compensation Commission and win on appeal. If your claim was denied, we’ll help you cut through the red tape and fight for the benefits you’re owed.

How to Appeal a Denied Workers’ Comp Claim in South Carolina

You have the right to appeal a denied claim, but you must act quickly. In South Carolina, the appeals process usually involves:

1. Filing a request for a hearing with the SC Workers’ Compensation Commission.
2. Presenting evidence and testimony before a Commissioner.
3. Appealing further decisions to the full Commission or the South Carolina Court of Appeals if necessary.

It can sound intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. To learn more about the process, visit our guide on the workers’ compensation appeal process in Columbia, SC.

Denied Workers’ Compensation Claims in Columbia Are Best Handled By a South Carolina Attorney

You’re not required to hire a lawyer, but having one often makes a significant difference, especially after a denial.

You should speak with an attorney if:

• You’ve been told your injury wasn’t work-related.
• You need surgery or ongoing medical care.
• Your benefits are delayed or underpaid.
• You’ve reached a point of confusion or frustration with the process.

At Lee Injury Law, our attorneys work efficiently, communicate clearly, and utilize technology to make the process easier. You don’t even have to visit our office if your injury makes travel difficult. We can meet virtually and start helping you right away.

When To Hire a Workers’ Compensation Attorney in South Carolina

The best time to reach out is as soon as you get a denial, or even if something just feels off with your claim. The sooner we get involved, the better we can protect your rights, keep things on schedule, and avoid costly delays.

At Lee Injury Law, we move fast, keep things simple, and stay with you every step of the way. We make sure your case doesn’t fall through the cracks.

Get Help With Your Denied Workers’ Comp Claim in Columbia, SC

Just because your claim was denied doesn’t mean your case is over. In fact, this could be the moment things start to turn around. The appeals process in South Carolina can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

At Lee Injury Law, fighting for injured workers is what we do. If your workers’ comp claim was denied, we’ll help you figure out what went wrong and what to do next, clearly, calmly, and with urgency.

You shouldn’t have to take on the insurance company or the Workers’ Compensation Commission by yourself. Whether you’re ready to appeal or just need someone to walk you through your options, we’re here for you.

Call now to speak with a Columbia workers’ compensation attorney who will listen, guide you, and stand up for the benefits you’ve earned. The consultation is free — and it could be the first step toward getting back on track.

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