In White Marsh, if you’ve been injured on the job, consulting a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer is vital. Nearly 74% of injured workers risk losing access to benefits or dealing with insurer issues without professional legal help.
While employers must carry workers’ compensation insurance, it is the insurer and the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission who determine benefit approvals. An experienced attorney can help you navigate this complex process and secure the benefits 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 White Marsh 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 White Marsh?
Shultz Legal is dedicated to helping White Marsh professionals from all fields as they navigate the Workers’ Compensation process. We’re proud to represent clients like union members and police officers, who face distinct challenges and protections under Maryland Workers’ Compensation Law. Our knowledgeable team understands these intricacies and is here to provide expert support.
Reach out to us today to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
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What Injuries are Covered by Workers’ Compensation Insurance?
In White Marsh, not all workplace injuries are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission, injuries must constitute an “accidental personal injury arising out of and in the course of employment.” This means that the injury’s context is key.
Injuries must directly connect to job duties, happen during work hours, and result from employment conditions. Injuries occurring outside of job tasks or due to intentional actions might not qualify. Gradual injuries, like repetitive strain, may also be eligible but often face added scrutiny.
Maryland also recognizes certain occupational illnesses due to long-term exposure to workplace hazards, such as toxic fumes or chemicals. Health conditions like respiratory or skin disorders may qualify if linked to job-related exposure.
The Commission assesses each claim in detail, and a workers’ compensation lawyer can help guide you through this process to bolster 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 White Marsh
In the event of a workplace injury in White Marsh, promptly inform your employer within ten days and fill out any accident report they provide to officially document the incident. For occupational illnesses caused by long-term exposure to hazardous conditions, you have up to one year to report in Maryland.
Once you notify your employer, they should start the claims process with their insurance provider. If immediate medical attention is needed, don’t delay in seeing a physician.
Be sure to also file a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days of the injury. The insurer will then have 21 days to assess 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 White Marsh
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 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 White Narsh for the guidance and advocacy essential to a successful claim.
Contact us today and take the first step toward fair compensation and the peace of mind you deserve!