For those who have suffered a work-related injury in Towson, consulting a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is essential. Without professional legal support, nearly 74% of injured workers risk losing access to rightful benefits or facing challenges with insurers.
While employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, the ultimate decision on benefits rests with the insurer and the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate this process and 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 Towson 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 Towson?
Shultz Legal is proud to support Towson residents from all professional backgrounds as they navigate the Workers’ Compensation process. We’re committed to representing clients, including union members and police officers, who face unique risks and receive special protections under Maryland Workers’ Compensation Law. Our skilled legal team understands these complexities and is here to provide the guidance you need.
Contact us today to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
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What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
In Towson, not all work-related injuries qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission, injuries must result from an “accidental personal injury arising out of and in the course of employment,” meaning the circumstances of the injury matter significantly.
For example, injuries must directly relate to job duties, occur during work hours, and arise from employment conditions. Incidents outside job responsibilities or intentional actions may not qualify. Gradual injuries, like repetitive strain, may be eligible but often face more scrutiny.
Maryland also covers certain occupational diseases resulting from prolonged exposure to hazardous workplace materials, such as chemicals or toxic fumes. Conditions like respiratory or skin issues may qualify if directly tied to job-related exposure.
The Commission reviews each claim’s eligibility closely, and a workers’ compensation attorney can help navigate this process and 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 Towson
If you’re injured at work in Towson, promptly notify your employer within ten days of the incident and complete any accident report provided to officially document the injury. For occupational illnesses—such as medical conditions arising from long-term exposure to workplace hazards—you have up to one year to report the issue in Maryland.
After notifying your employer, they should initiate the claims process with their insurance provider. If your injury needs immediate medical care, see a physician without delay and begin treatment.
Next, file a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days of the incident to ensure your claim is registered. Once submitted, the insurer has 21 days to review and decide on your request for benefits.
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 Towson
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 Towson 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 Towson 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!