If you’ve sustained a work-related injury in Crofton, seeking advice from a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is crucial. Without expert legal assistance, nearly 74% of injured workers risk being denied their rightful benefits or facing obstacles with insurance companies.
Although employers are mandated to carry workers’ compensation insurance, the final decision on benefits lies with the insurer and the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. A skilled attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring you get 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 Crofton 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 Crofton?
At Shultz Legal, we are honored to support Crofton residents from various professions as they work through the Workers’ Compensation process. We proudly represent clients, such as union members and police officers, who encounter unique risks and are entitled to specific protections under Maryland Workers’ Compensation Law. Our experienced team is well-versed in these nuances and ready to offer the guidance you need.
Get in touch with us today to secure the benefits you’re entitled to.
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What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
In Crofton, not every work-related injury qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits. The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission specifies that only injuries classified as “accidental personal injuries arising out of and in the course of employment” meet eligibility requirements, meaning that the context of the injury is essential.
For example, injuries must be directly linked to job duties, occur during work hours, and stem from employment conditions. Incidents that happen outside of work responsibilities or result from intentional actions might not qualify. Gradual injuries, such as repetitive strain, can sometimes qualify but may receive closer scrutiny.
Additionally, Maryland covers some occupational diseases caused by long-term exposure to hazardous substances at work, like chemicals or toxic fumes. Conditions such as respiratory or skin disorders may qualify if they’re clearly tied to job-related exposure.
The Commission carefully evaluates each claim’s eligibility, and a workers’ compensation attorney can provide valuable guidance to help strengthen 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 Crofton
If you’re injured at work in Crofton, be sure to inform your employer within ten days and complete any accident report they provide to document the incident formally. For occupational illnesses, such as those resulting from prolonged exposure to workplace hazards, Maryland law gives you up to one year to report the condition.
After notifying your employer, they should begin the claims process with their insurer. If urgent medical care is needed, seek treatment right away.
Additionally, file a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days to ensure it’s officially registered. The insurer then has 21 days to review and respond to your benefits request.
Why Your Workers Comp Claim Might Be Denied
Workers’ compensation claims may be denied for numerous reasons, potentially leaving injured employees without essential benefits to cover medical bills and lost income. Common reasons for denial include incomplete or inaccurate applications, which can lead to delays or outright rejections. Even minor errors or missing information can impact eligibility, highlighting the need for a thoroughly prepared application.
The nature of the injury itself may also affect approval. Injuries that are difficult to link directly to work tasks or occur outside typical job duties often receive greater scrutiny. Claims may be denied if there’s any question of whether the injury truly happened “in the course of employment.”
Working with an experienced workers’ comp attorney can greatly improve your chances of approval. An attorney can help gather required documents, organize medical records, and clearly demonstrate how the injury connects to your job. This support can help you avoid common mistakes, reduce the risk of claim denial, and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome, especially if disputes with the insurer arise.
How to Appeal a Workers’ Compensation Denial in Crofton
If your workers’ compensation claim is denied, the appeals process can be challenging, making it wise to consult an experienced attorney who can guide you through each step. To begin the appeal, you must submit an issues form to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC). This form initiates a review of your case, and a commissioner will evaluate your claim to determine whether benefits are warranted.
If you disagree with the commissioner’s decision, you have 15 days to request a rehearing, though rehearings are often difficult to secure. An attorney can help strengthen your request by identifying and addressing areas in your case that need clarification or additional evidence, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
Should the rehearing request be denied, you still have options. You can escalate your case to the Maryland Circuit Court, where a judge will conduct an independent review of your claim. If necessary, you can further appeal to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals. This multi-step appeals process can be complex and lengthy, but with skilled legal support, you’ll have a better chance of securing the benefits you’re entitled to.
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 Crofton Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today!
Dealing with a work-related injury can make the workers’ compensation process feel daunting. The experienced team at Shultz Legal is committed to helping you obtain the benefits and support you need in this difficult time. Rely on Shultz Legal in Crofton for the guidance and advocacy essential to a successful claim.
Reach out today to take the first step toward fair compensation and the peace of mind you deserve!
