Filing Your Claim
April 13, 2018
If you work in the state of Maryland and you have been injured on the job, you may be eligible for Workers’ Compensation benefits that include medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial benefits based on the nature of your injury. In order for you to collect the full benefits you need in a timely fashion, you must take the right steps to ensure that your claim is filed quickly and correctly. A skilled Workers’ Compensation lawyer can guide you through the claims process, and make sure that no mistakes are made or deadlines missed that could have a negative impact on your claim.
Report Your Injury
The first step in the claims process is to report your injury to your employer as soon as possible. In fact, if you do not notify your employer of your injury within ten days, either in writing or in person, it could jeopardize your right to collect Workers’ Compensation benefits. It is recommended that you provide notice in writing, as this provides written proof of when you were injured, and when you reported the injury to your employer.
Once you have notified your employer, you will be asked to fill out an accident report. It is imperative that this is filled out accurately and with as much detail as possible. These reports are often used as evidence in the event the claim is disputed. Therefore, any information that is incorrect, missing, or inconsistent may be used against you.
When seeking treatment for your injury, you may use any doctor you choose. The expenses will be covered by your employer’s Workers’ Compensation plan, as long as the injury is directly related to your job.
Filing a Claim
Your official claim must be filed with the Workers’ Compensation Commission within 60 days of your injury. You have the option of filing you claim online, or downloading a copy of the form and mailing it to the Commission’s office. If you miss the deadline, your claim will only be considered if you had a valid reason for missing the deadline. If a claim is filed two or more years after the injury, it will not be accepted or considered. You can check the status of your claim by going onto the Commission’s website.
After notifying your employer and its insurance company of your claim, the insurance company may conduct an investigation to determine your eligibility for benefits. This may include the following:
- A medical examination to determine the seriousness of your injury
- Recommendation for you to undergo a functional capacity evaluation
- A thorough review of your medical records
- Review of your work experience, education, and salary
If your claim is denied, you may request a hearing before the Commission. You are urged to secure legal representation from an experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer, who will provide you with the skilled legal counsel you deserve and ensure you receive all entitled benefits.
Baltimore Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Help Injured Workers with the Claims Process
If you have been injured at work, and you have questions about the claims process, the Baltimore Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton will address all of your questions and concerns. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing the maximum benefits that you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 844-556-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
