Getting hurt on the job is difficult enough. You count on workers’ compensation to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses while you recover. But if your claim is denied, that support can vanish in an instant. Many injured workers in Colorado receive a denial letter without understanding why. If this happened to you, don’t give up. A denial doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You have the right to appeal — and the law gives you a fair chance to fight back.

Why Workers’ Compensation Claims Get Denied

There are several common reasons why claims are denied in Colorado. Some are procedural, while others involve disputes over the injury itself. Here are the most frequent causes of a denial:

• Late Reporting: Injuries must be reported to your employer within four days. Missing this window can raise red flags.
• Incomplete Paperwork: Any errors or missing details on claim forms can result in an automatic rejection.
• Disputed Cause: If your employer or their insurance company believes your injury didn’t happen at work, they may deny the claim.
• Insufficient Medical Evidence: Lack of clear medical records or treatment from an unauthorized provider may weaken your case.
• Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurers often claim your injury existed before the work incident, even if your job clearly made it worse.

Being denied doesn’t mean you don’t qualify. It simply means you’ll need to take the next legal step — an appeal.

Understanding the Colorado Appeals Process

Colorado law gives injured workers the right to challenge a denial through a structured appeals process. There are several steps involved, each with its own rules and deadlines. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

1. Request a Prehearing or Settlement Conference:
   This is an informal meeting with an administrative law judge and the insurance company. It can help resolve the dispute early without going to a formal hearing.
2. File an Application for Hearing:
   If no resolution is reached, you must file this form within 45 days of your denial. This officially requests a formal hearing.
3. Attend the Hearing:
   Both sides present evidence — including witness testimony, medical records, and accident reports — in front of an administrative law judge. The judge will issue a ruling based on what’s presented.
4. File a Petition to Review (If Needed):
   If the judge rules against you, you can appeal to the Industrial Claim Appeals Office. From there, the decision may be reviewed by the Colorado Court of Appeals if necessary.

Each step requires preparation, paperwork, and clear evidence. It’s a detailed process — but one that gives injured workers a real chance to be heard.

Why Legal Help Can Strengthen Your Appeal

Filing an appeal without legal guidance can be risky. The system is full of deadlines, procedures, and insurance company pushback. Trying to handle everything while recovering from an injury can be overwhelming. Working with an attorney offers several key advantages:

• Help gathering medical records and supportive documentation
• Expert representation during hearings and settlement conferences
• Legal knowledge to challenge inaccurate or misleading information
• Support meeting strict filing deadlines and completing complex forms
• Increased chance of recovering full benefits for lost wages and medical care

At Bell & Pollock, we’ve represented injured workers throughout Denver and across Colorado. We know how to build a strong appeal, communicate with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you’re owed.

You Deserve a Fair Chance to Recover

An injury at work can turn your life upside down. When your workers’ comp claim is denied, it can feel like no one’s on your side. But that’s not true — the law is still on your side, and so are we. If your claim was denied:

• Don’t ignore the denial — deadlines are critical
• Don’t try to fight the system alone
• Don’t give up on the benefits you’re entitled to

Let our team step in and help you take the next step. We’ll review your case, identify what went wrong, and guide you through the appeals process with clarity and confidence.

Call Bell & Pollock and Let Us Help You Appeal Your Denied Workers’ Comp Claim

At Bell & Pollock, we don’t believe insurance companies should get the final say. Our attorneys are committed to helping you assert your rights and get the support you need to recover fully. You don’t have to do this by yourself. If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your legal options and help you fight for the benefits you deserve — with experience, determination, and a team that puts you first.