What Happens If Your Employer Says Your Injury Didn’t Happen at Work?
One of the most frustrating moments an injured worker can experience is hearing their employer say:
“We don’t think this happened at work.”
Unfortunately, this happens more often than many people realize.
Some employers question injuries because there were no witnesses. Others claim the injury was pre-existing. Some simply try to avoid increased workers’ compensation costs.
But an employer’s disagreement does NOT automatically mean your claim will be denied.
At Garson Johnson, we help Ohio injured workers fight back when employers dispute legitimate workplace injuries.
Why Employers Dispute Workers’ Compensation Claims
Employers may deny or challenge claims for several reasons:
- They claim the injury happened outside of work
- There was a delay in reporting the injury
- No one witnessed the accident
- The employer says the condition is pre-existing
- The injury developed over time instead of from one accident
- Surveillance or social media is used unfairly against the worker
Even if your employer disputes your claim, the Ohio BWC and Industrial Commission ultimately decide whether your claim should be allowed.
What You Should Do Immediately
Report the Injury Right Away
Even if your employer seems skeptical, report the injury immediately and keep copies of:
- Incident reports
- Emails
- Text messages
- Medical paperwork
- Witness information
Seek Medical Treatment
Tell your doctor exactly how the injury happened and that it occurred while working.
Medical records become critical evidence in disputed claims.
Avoid Giving Recorded Statements Alone
Insurance representatives and employers sometimes ask injured workers leading questions designed to create confusion.
Be careful.
What seems like a harmless conversation can later be used against your claim.
Evidence That Can Help Your Case
The strongest workers’ compensation claims often include:
- Prompt reporting
- Consistent medical records
- Witness statements
- Prior clean medical history
- Job duty descriptions
- Surveillance footage
- Employer incident reports
Even if there were no witnesses, many claims can still be proven.
We Handle Difficult Cases
Garson Johnson has represented injured Ohio workers for decades.
We understand how overwhelming it feels when your employer suddenly acts like you are exaggerating or making things up.
One client wrote:
“The world needs more attorneys like you. When the system fails people, you find a way.”
Another shared:
“Not just another case but you care about your clients.”
Those words matter to us.
You Still Have Rights
If your employer is denying your injury, do not assume you are out of options.
Many denied claims are later approved with the right legal representation and medical evidence.
At Garson Johnson, we fight for injured workers throughout Ohio.
Call us today for a free consultation.
