For anyone who has experienced a work-related injury in Catonsville, consulting a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is crucial. Without professional legal assistance, nearly 74% of injured workers risk missing out on entitled benefits or facing challenges from insurers.
Although employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, the final decision on benefits is made by the insurer and the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. A skilled attorney can guide you through this process and help secure the support you deserve.
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 Catonsville Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Suffering an injury that prevents you from living your life to the fullest can have significant consequences, both financially and emotionally. The inability to earn a living can lead to financial instability, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future. When facing these challenges, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney in Maryland.
– Jason Shultz
Who Do We Help In Catonsville?
Shultz Legal proudly serves Catonsville residents from all professional backgrounds as they navigate the Workers’ Compensation process. We are dedicated to representing clients, including union members and police officers, who encounter unique risks and are afforded special protections under Maryland Workers’ Compensation Law. Our experienced legal team understands these complexities and is here to offer the guidance you need.
Reach out to us today to secure the benefits you deserve.
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What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
In Catonsville, not all work-related injuries are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission, an injury must be an “accidental personal injury arising out of and in the course of employment,” meaning that the details surrounding the injury are crucial.
To qualify, the injury must directly relate to job duties, occur during work hours, and result from employment conditions. Incidents outside the scope of work responsibilities or those involving intentional actions may not be eligible. Gradual injuries, such as repetitive strain, may qualify but often undergo closer examination.
Maryland also covers certain occupational diseases that result from prolonged exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace, like chemicals or toxic fumes. Conditions such as respiratory or skin issues may be eligible if directly connected to workplace exposure.
The Commission thoroughly reviews each claim’s eligibility, and a workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable support in navigating this process and strengthening your case.
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 Catonsville
If you’re injured at work in Catonsville, notify your employer within ten days of the incident and complete any accident report to formally document the injury. For occupational illnesses—conditions resulting from long-term exposure to workplace hazards—you have up to one year to report the issue in Maryland.
Once you’ve informed your employer, they should begin the claims process with their insurance provider. If your injury requires immediate medical attention, consult a physician promptly and start treatment.
Then, file a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days of the incident to officially register your claim. The insurer will then have 21 days to review and make a decision on your request for benefits.
Why Your Workers Comp Claim Might Be Denied
Workers’ compensation claims are often denied due to incomplete or inaccurate applications, minor errors, or missing information, which can delay or reject essential benefits for medical bills and lost income. The injury’s nature also impacts approval; injuries not clearly linked to work tasks or occurring outside typical job duties may face added scrutiny.
Working with an experienced workers’ comp attorney can improve your chances of approval. An attorney ensures documents are complete, medical records are organized, and the injury’s connection to your job is clear, reducing denial risks and increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome, especially if disputes arise.
How to Appeal a Workers’ Compensation Denial in Catonsville
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, the appeals process can be complex, so consulting an experienced attorney is highly beneficial. To start, submit an issues form to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC), which will prompt a commissioner to review your case and assess if benefits should be granted.
If you disagree with the commissioner’s decision, you have 15 days to request a rehearing, although these are often hard to obtain. An attorney can improve your chances by addressing any areas that need clarification or additional evidence.
If the rehearing is denied, you may escalate the case to the Maryland Circuit Court for an independent review, and, if necessary, further appeal to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. Although this multi-step appeals process can be lengthy, skilled legal guidance can significantly enhance your chances of receiving the benefits you deserve.
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 Catonsville Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today!
If you’ve suffered a work-related injury, navigating the workers’ compensation process can be overwhelming. The knowledgeable team at Shultz Legal is dedicated to helping you secure the benefits and support you need during this challenging time. Trust Shultz Legal in Catonsville to provide the guidance and advocacy necessary for a successful claim.
Contact us today and take the first step toward fair compensation and the peace of mind you deserve!