When you’re injured on the job, workers’ compensation benefits are supposed to provide financial stability, medical care, and peace of mind. Unfortunately, many injured workers in Augusta, Greensboro, and throughout Georgia face a frustrating reality: their claims are denied. A denial does not mean the end of your case. In Georgia, you absolutely have the right to appeal — and with the right legal help, many denied claims can be overturned.
At The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, we represent injured workers across East Georgia, helping them fight unfair denials and pursue the benefits they deserve. Our team has extensive experience navigating the Georgia Workers’ Compensation system and understanding the tactics insurance companies use to dispute legitimate injuries.
Why Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Denied in Georgia
Insurance companies deny claims for a variety of reasons — some valid, many not. Common reasons include:
- Lack of Medical Evidence: One of the most frequent causes of denial is insufficient medical documentation. If your doctor’s report doesn’t clearly link your injury to your job, the insurer may dispute it.
- Missed Deadlines: Georgia law requires workers to report their injury to their employer within 30 days, and failing to do so may result in a denied claim.
- Disputes About Whether the Injury Was Work-Related: If the insurer believes your injury occurred outside of work or during a non-work activity, they may deny coverage.
- Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies often blame workplace injuries on pre-existing conditions, even when the job clearly aggravated or worsened the issue.
- Employer Disputes the Claim: In some cases, the employer may argue that the injury didn’t occur at work or claim there were no witnesses.
- Allegations of Misconduct: Claims may be denied if the insurer alleges drug or alcohol use, horseplay, or violation of workplace policies.
- Incomplete or Incorrect Paperwork: The workers’ compensation system is full of forms, deadlines, and technical rules. Even a small mistake can lead to denial.
Georgia employers and insurers are known to heavily scrutinize claims. According to statewide legal data, thousands of workers’ compensation claims are disputed or denied each year, often leaving injured workers uncertain about what to do next.
Yes — You Can Appeal a Denied Workers’ Compensation Claim
A claim denial is not final. Under Georgia law, you have the right to file an appeal with the State Board of Workers’ Compensation (SBWC). This involves requesting a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where your attorney can present evidence, medical records, witness testimony, and legal arguments supporting your case.
The appeals process may include:
- Filing a WC-14 to request a hearing
- Gathering additional medical evidence
- Depositions from medical experts or witnesses
- Appearing before a judge for a formal hearing
This process can be complicated, and insurance companies often have legal teams working against your claim. Having an experienced Georgia workers’ compensation attorney on your side gives you the best chance of overturning the denial.
Why You Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for an Appeal
Appealing a denied claim requires detailed legal knowledge, strategic planning, and a clear understanding of how insurance companies operate. At The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins, we help by:
- Identifying exactly why the claim was denied
- Gathering missing or overlooked evidence
- Obtaining strong medical opinions from trusted physicians
- Challenging inaccurate employer or insurance statements
- Presenting your case effectively at the SBWC hearing
Most importantly, we handle communication with the insurance company so you can focus on recovering.
Workers represented by an attorney have a significantly higher success rate in appeals compared to workers who attempt to handle the process alone. Insurance companies are far more likely to take your case seriously when you have experienced legal counsel involved.
Local Advocacy for Injured Workers in Augusta & Greensboro, GA
We proudly serve workers throughout Augusta, Greensboro, Evans, Thomson, Martinez, and surrounding communities. Whether you were injured in manufacturing, healthcare, construction, transportation, or any other industry, our firm understands the challenges you’re facing — physically, financially, and emotionally.
Our goal is simple: to fight for the benefits you deserve, including medical treatment, lost wages, and compensation for permanent disability when applicable.
Don’t Give Up — We Can Help You Move Forward
A denied workers’ compensation claim can feel overwhelming, but it is not the end of your case. With the right legal strategy, many denials can be overturned.
If your claim has been denied, contact The Law Office of Bryan S. Hawkins today. We will review your denial, explain your options, and begin building a strong appeal on your behalf.
You don’t have to face the workers’ compensation system alone. We’re here to protect your rights every step of the way.
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