Do You Need an Attorney for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Maryland?
If you were injured at work, then your need for workers’ compensation benefits is likely abundantly clear to you. That clarity may not be shared by your employer, though. Many Baltimore employers and their insurers actively work to deny liability for work-related injuries, limiting the rights of victims to access benefits for their lost wages and medical care.
As an injured worker, you deserve better. Oftentimes, the most effective way to ensure your rights are respected and upheld is to secure the legal representation of a workers’ comp attorney. If you’re still wondering whether you need an attorney for a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland, we hope that the following blog will provide the information you need to make a thoughtful decision.
What Does a Workers’ Compensation Attorney Do?
A workers’ compensation attorney is a tireless legal advocate and guide for those who have been hurt through the course of their employment. If you were injured or fell sick because of your job, a workers’ comp lawyer from Belsky & Horowitz, LLC can:
- Investigate the accident that caused your injury
- Gather evidence that proves your injury or illness was the result of your employment
- Ensure that all paperwork is filled out correctly and submitted within the deadline
- Help you prepare for court appearances
For an opportunity to speak one-on-one with an attorney who is knowledgeable in all aspects of Maryland workers’ compensation law, please contact our law office as soon as possible. Belsky & Horowitz, LLC offers free case evaluations to injury victims in Baltimore.
When To Consider Hiring an Attorney for a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Maryland
Deciding to hire an attorney for your workers’ compensation claim is a highly personal decision. At Belsky & Horowitz, LLC, we want you to feel empowered to make the best possible decision for your unique situation. This includes having access to all information needed to make such an important decision.
While every workers’ compensation case is unique, there are some unifying factors that may call for the services of an attorney. Below are some of the top four reasons you need an attorney for a workers’ compensation claim.
#1 – You Have a Pre-Existing Condition
The presence of a pre-existing condition does not preclude you from workers’ compensation insurance coverage in Maryland. However, insurance companies are often quick to place the blame for any injury or occupational illness on a pre-existing condition, ignoring the clear evidence that proves you were injured or fell ill through the course of your employment.
It is not enough to simply tell the insurer, “My pre-existing condition didn’t cause my injury.” Successfully arguing that your injuries were the result of your working conditions requires proof, which can be difficult to gather and evaluate when you are dealing with doctor’s visits, recovery time, and lost wages. A workers’ compensation attorney will have the knowledge, experience, and resources to prove that your pre-existing condition is not a relevant factor in your claim.
If you have a pre-existing condition, an attorney will be an invaluable asset to your workers’ compensation claim.
#2 – You Were Cleared for Work Too Quickly
Your doctor cleared you to go back to work, but you’re still actively healing or dealing with significant levels of pain. What do you do?
You could lose out on vital benefits if you’re cleared to go back to work too quickly. Returning to work before reaching your fullest possible recovery also puts you at risk of suffering additional harm or exacerbating your current condition.
Medical professionals that work with and for the insurance company rarely have your wellbeing at the forefront of their minds, though. If you were given a list of health care providers from the insurance company and chose to see one of those doctors, you could have been receiving care from someone who relies on kickbacks for sending people back to work as soon as possible.
Don’t risk your health or your benefits—contact an attorney right away if your doctor is trying to send you back to work before you are physically or emotionally ready.
#3 – You Have New or Worsening Symptoms
Healing is not a linear process. Whether you are recovering from surgery or attending physical therapy, it is not uncommon to feel like you are constantly taking two steps forward and one step back. Your employer and their workers’ compensation insurer may not be willing to consider the uncertain nature of healing and recovery, though.
A workers’ compensation lawyer will understand that not all injuries develop or heal in the same way and can fight for your right to necessary benefits if you have new or worsening symptoms.
#4 – Your First Workers’ Compensation Claim Was Denied
A denial of your workers’ compensation claim is not the end of the road. You have the right to file an appeal with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission, which processes and adjudicates these claims.
An attorney will help you build a strong appeal, highlighting important facts of the case, including your injuries or illness, the circumstances that caused them, your expected maximum medical improvement (MMI), and more.
If you’re filing an appeal, you’ve already been told “no” once. Work with an attorney who will fight with all they have to improve your chances of being told “yes” for the benefits you need.
Find a Workers’ Compensation Attorney That Will Fight for You
If your employer, the insurance company, and even your own doctor all don’t seem to have your best interests in mind, you have the right to obtain the services of someone who does. At Belsky & Horowitz, LLC, each and every workers’ compensation attorney has the skill, experience, and compassion that is needed to handle even the most complex of work injury cases.
If you’re still not certain whether you need an attorney for a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland, we invite you to contact our Baltimore office to schedule a confidential, no-cost case evaluation. We’ll meet with you for this free consultation at a time that work
