For some workers’ compensation claims, you may not need an attorney; however, some types of claims are more complicated. Workers’ comp is no-fault insurance that covers accidental injuries/occupational illnesses employees suffer in the course of performing their work duties. If you have a work-related injury/illness, workers’ comp covers: 
- Medical bills
- Two-thirds of wages lost due to time off work
- Long-term disability care if you can’t return to your job
- Vocational rehabilitation
- Death benefits
Some workers’ compensation claims can be handled without a lawyer. There’s a good chance you can handle your workers’ comp claim on your own if:
- Your injuries are minor, and your medical expenses are low
- You’re not disabled
- You’re off work for less than a week
- Your employer agrees your injury/illness is work related and doesn’t dispute your claim
When You Need a Frederick Workers' Compensation Lawyer
However, not every workers’ comp claim is simple or inexpensive. There are circumstances when the services of an experienced Frederick workers' compensation lawyer significantly increase your chances of getting the benefits you deserve, including:
- Your injuries are severe, and your medical bills high
- You’re left temporarily/permanently disabled
- Your disability rating is disputed
- Your benefits aren’t sufficient to cover your medical bills
- You’re not receiving benefits in a timely manner
- You have a pre-existing condition
- You’re receiving other government benefits
- You have grounds for a third-party lawsuit
- Your claim is denied
- You need/have a hearing before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (MDWCC)
- Your employer has retaliated against you for filing a claim
Why You Need a Workers' Compensation Lawyer
The most difficult workers’ comp claims are the most expensive and complex. Your employer’s insurance company is in business to earn as much profit as possible. One way it accomplishes that goal is by disputing and denying as many expensive and complicated claims as possible.
Adjusters and lawyers, who are insurance experts, know you’re no match for them when it comes to negotiation and litigation of intricate insurance issues. If you don’t have an experienced Frederick workers' compensation lawyer representing you in an expensive and/or complex case, they may not take you seriously. They will offer you the lowest possible settlement and pressure you to accept it before consulting a lawyer. If you have legal representation, however, they’re much more likely to offer fair benefits because they know your attorney will:
- Know Maryland’s workers’ compensation law because they’re skilled at handling these types of cases
- Advise you on all aspects of your claim
- Be familiar with the tactics used by insurance companies to devalue claims
- Consult with your doctors to determine your future care needs and evaluate your case
- Organize/present your medical evidence persuasively to support your claim
- Lead you through the claim procedure and the process of appeal if necessary
- Make sure you meet all deadlines, follow procedures, and complete paperwork properly
- Maintain consistent communication with your employer, the insurance company, and the MDWCC
- Identify/correct any errors in documents, correspondence, or other paperwork related to your claim
- Negotiate with your employer’s insurance company for fair benefits
It would be difficult or impossible for the average person, recovering from an injury/illness, to handle these tasks. However, they’re second nature to an experienced Frederick workers’ compensation lawyer. For this reason, you’re likely to get a significantly higher settlement offer with an attorney than without one.
Third-Party Actions
Workers’ compensation pays the medical expenses of an employee injured on the job, but the employee gives up their right to sue their employer. There are, however, some situations in which you might have grounds for legal action against a third party, including:
- You drive a company vehicle in the course of your work and are injured in an accident caused by a driver who is not employed by your company
- Your accident is caused by defective equipment for which a manufacturer or a repair service is responsible
- You visit people’s homes/businesses in the course of your work and are hurt because of unsafe conditions such as a slippery floor or an icy parking lot/sidewalk
In such cases, your attorney can help you file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent third party. This could give you more compensation to cover your medical expenses and make up for lost wages, of which workers’ comp pays only about 66%. A personal injury award may also include compensation for your pain and suffering, which workers’ comp does not cover.
Have You Suffered a Work-Related Injury? Contact Our Frederick Workers' Compensation Lawyer
Consulting an experienced Frederick workers’ compensation lawyer is the first step toward getting fair benefits. Please contact us online, start a chat, or call us to schedule a free consultation. You pay no attorney fees unless we win your case.
|
Related links: |
