If you’ve suffered a workplace injury in Bel Air, MD, seeking guidance from a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is essential to protecting your rights. Without skilled legal representation, nearly 74% of workers may struggle with insurance claims or risk missing out on the benefits they rightfully deserve.
Although employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, your benefits are ultimately determined by the insurer and the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. An experienced attorney can advocate on your behalf, helping you secure the full compensation and support you need.
Our Clients Love Us!
Since 1999, Jason Shultz, the founder of Shultz Legal, has been advocating for injured workers, beginning his career as a union organizer for the AFL-CIO and SEIU. Recognized annually as a “Top Rated Workers’ Compensation Attorney” and a “Rising Star” by Super Lawyers since 2014, he achieved the title of “Super Lawyer” in 2020. Sara El-Shall, our other attorney, has also been acknowledged as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers every year since 2019.
Hire Shultz As Your Bel Air Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Suffering an injury that affects your ability to live life to the fullest can have a profound financial and emotional impact. Lost income can lead to financial strain, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. In these challenging times, working with a personal injury attorney in Maryland is crucial to safeguarding your rights and obtaining the compensation you deserve.
– Jason Shultz
Who Do We Help In Bel Air, MD?
Shultz Legal is dedicated to assisting Bel Air workers in navigating the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation process. We take pride in representing individuals from all backgrounds, including union members and police officers, who encounter unique workplace risks and are entitled to special protections under Maryland law. Our experienced legal team is committed to providing the strong advocacy and support you need.
Reach out to us today to safeguard your rights and secure the benefits you deserve.
Get a Consultation
What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
Not all workplace injuries in Bel Air automatically qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission requires that injuries be classified as “accidental personal injuries arising out of and in the course of employment,” meaning that the specific circumstances of the incident are crucial in determining eligibility.
To qualify, the injury must be directly related to job duties, occur during work hours, and result from workplace conditions. Injuries that happen outside of work responsibilities or due to intentional actions may not be covered. Gradual injuries, such as repetitive stress injuries, might be eligible but often face heightened scrutiny.
Maryland also recognizes occupational diseases caused by long-term exposure to hazardous workplace substances, such as toxic fumes or chemicals. Workers who develop conditions like respiratory or skin diseases due to workplace exposure may have a right to compensation.
Because each case is carefully reviewed, consulting a workers’ compensation attorney can help clarify your rights and improve your chances of a successful claim.
A Closer Look at Maryland Workers’ Compensation Laws
The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission plays a central role in managing and regulating workers’ compensation claims within the state. Its duties encompass:
- Defining what constitutes a payable injury
- Reviewing cases where injuries occurred during employment
- Investigating accidents caused by third-party negligence during work hours
- Determining if illnesses arising from workplace injuries qualify for workers’ compensation benefits
How To File For Workers’ Compensation in Bel Air
If you experience a workplace injury in Bel Air, it’s crucial to notify your employer within ten days and file an accident report to officially document the incident. For work-related illnesses resulting from long-term exposure to hazardous substances, Maryland law provides up to one year to report the condition.
Once your employer has been informed, they are responsible for initiating the claims process with their workers’ compensation insurance provider. If medical attention is necessary, do not delay—seek treatment immediately.
Additionally, you must file a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days of your injury. After submission, the insurer has 21 days to review your case and determine your eligibility for benefits.
Why Your Workers Comp Claim Might Be Denied
Many workers’ compensation claims are denied, leaving injured employees without the financial support they need for medical care and lost wages. One of the most common reasons for denial is an incomplete or inaccurate application—even minor mistakes can result in rejection or unnecessary delays, making it essential to submit a thoroughly prepared claim.
Establishing a direct link between the injury and job duties is also crucial for claim approval. Injuries that are difficult to connect to specific work-related tasks or that occur outside of normal job responsibilities often face heightened scrutiny. If there is any uncertainty about whether the injury occurred “in the course of employment,” the claim may be denied.
Working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing benefits. A knowledgeable attorney can assist in gathering crucial documentation, compiling medical records, and presenting a strong case that clearly proves the injury is work-related. By avoiding common mistakes and preparing a solid claim, you can minimize the risk of denial and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome, especially if the insurer disputes your case.
How to Appeal a Workers’ Compensation Denial in Bel Air
A denied workers’ compensation claim doesn’t mean your fight for benefits is over. While the appeals process can be complex, the right legal support can help you seek the compensation you deserve. To begin an appeal, you must file an issues form with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC), which triggers a commissioner’s review of your case.
If your claim is denied again, you have 15 days to request a rehearing, though these requests are not often granted. A skilled attorney can strengthen your appeal by identifying weaknesses, gathering additional evidence, and ensuring all crucial details are presented effectively.
If a rehearing is denied, you have the option to escalate your case to the Maryland Circuit Court for an independent review. If necessary, you can further appeal to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. Although the appeals process can be lengthy and challenging, working with an experienced attorney can significantly improve your chances of achieving a successful outcome.
What Benefits are Available to Injured Workers?
There are several different types of benefits available to injured workers. These include:
- Temporary Partial Disability Benefits
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
- Medical/Hospitalization Benefits
- Wage Reimbursement Benefits
- Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits
For the full details on the types of benefits available, view the MWCC’s overview.
Contact A Bel Air Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today!
If you’ve been injured on the job, navigating the workers’ compensation process can feel overwhelming. At Shultz Legal, our dedicated team is here to help you secure the benefits and support you deserve. With strong advocacy and expert guidance, we’ll work to build a solid claim on your behalf.
Reach out to Shultz Legal in Middle River today and take the first step toward fair compensation and peace of mind!
