A workplace injury in Beltsville, MD, can have consequences that go well beyond physical pain. You might miss weeks or months of work, but the bills don’t stop coming just because you’re hurt. Maryland workers’ compensation benefits are designed to alleviate the financial pressure. Still, many qualifying employees encounter obstacles during the claims process, making an already challenging situation that much harder.
Is your employer or their workers’ comp insurer infringing on your right to workers’ compensation benefits? The experienced attorneys at Trollinger Law LLC have over a decade of experience fighting for the hardworking people of Maryland. We know how employers try to dodge their obligations and prevent workers from recovering benefits they are entitled to under Maryland law — and that’s unacceptable.
At Trollinger Law LLC, our attorneys can manage all aspects of your workers’ compensation case from start to finish. When you choose us, you get a highly qualified legal team that understands the complexities of the workers’ compensation claim process and can develop effective strategies to navigate them. Our full-service firm will investigate all potential sources of compensation for you, including possible third-party personal injury claims against anyone who contributed to your injuries. Call or contact us now to arrange a free consultation with a workers’ comp lawyer in Beltsville.
Your Rights Under Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation System
The Maryland workers’ comp system provides benefits to eligible employees when an injury or illness occurs on the job. With few exceptions, most employers with one or more employees must carry workers’ compensation insurance. Independent contractors or self-employed workers are not entitled to workers’ compensation.
Workers’ comp coverage can pay for all reasonable medical expenses, a portion of your lost wages, and disability benefits while you recover from a job injury. It is a no-fault insurance program, meaning you do not need to prove that your employer or anyone else was negligent to file a claim. However, you must show that your injury or condition occurred while you performed job duties.
Unlike some states, Maryland workers’ compensation law also gives you the right to choose your doctor for treatment of a work-related injury. However, your employer’s insurer may require you to undergo an independent medical examination (IME) from a doctor of their choosing as well.
You have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim without fear of retaliation. If your claim is denied, you can challenge an adverse decision through an appeals process.
Types of Compensation Available for a Work Injury
Your first option for compensation after an on-the-job injury is your workers’ comp benefits. Covered employees could receive the following benefits:
- Temporary total disability benefits: These payments cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to the state maximum, if you cannot work at all during your recovery. If your disability lasts more than 14 days, benefits begin from the date of disability.
- Temporary partial disability benefits: When you can work with restrictions or in a part-time role at reduced pay, these benefits cover 50 percent of the difference between your prior wage and your reduced earning capacity, subject to state limits.
- Permanent total disability benefits: You might qualify for permanent total disability benefits if an injury prevents you from working in any capacity for the rest of your life, such as the loss of both arms, both legs, or similar severe conditions. These payments equal two-thirds of your average weekly wage, capped at the state average.
- Permanent partial disability benefits: Permanent partial disability benefits may apply if you have a lasting impairment but can still work. Payments vary by the body part injured and the degree of impairment, with a minimum of $50 per week.
- Medical benefits: Workers’ comp medical benefits cover all reasonable and necessary medical treatment, surgery, medication, prosthetics, and related medical services. Benefits last until you fully heal or reach maximum medical improvement (MMI), where additional treatment won’t meaningfully impact your condition.
- Wage reimbursement benefits: Your employer must repay you for lost wages for time spent at medical exams or any hearings your employer or their insurer requests.
- Vocational rehabilitation services: Vocational rehab benefits may provide training, counseling, and job placement services for up to 24 months when your injury prevents you from returning to your old job.
You could also recover additional compensation through a third-party personal injury claim. The state workers’ compensation statute does not allow you to sue your employer. However, you might be able to file a personal injury lawsuit if an outside party contributed to your injuries. For example, you might have a claim against the manufacturer of defective equipment or a driver who hit you in a workplace accident.
Unlike workers’ comp claims, third-party injury claims require you to prove negligence, but they can also compensate you for losses workers’ comp doesn’t cover, like:
- The full amount of your lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damaged personal property
Why You Should Consult a Beltsville Workers’ Comp Lawyer
A job-related injury can leave you uncertain about how to move forward. A workplace injury lawyer in Beltsville can guide you through each step, explain your rights, build an evidence-backed claim, and file your claim by the necessary deadlines. If your employer denies your claim or delays your benefits, a lawyer can represent you in hearings and appeals. Legal support can also protect you if your employer or the insurance company tries to reduce or limit your benefits.
Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury in Beltsville
Follow these steps to protect your workers’ compensation claim:
- Report the injury right away to your employer or supervisor: Waiting more than 10 days to report the injury could jeopardize your workers’ comp benefits.
- Seek medical care from a licensed provider: Make sure to inform them that your injury is work-related.
- Document details about the accident: Include the date, time, location, and names of any witnesses.
- File a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission as soon as possible: In most cases, you must file within two years of your injury to preserve your benefits. For occupational diseases or cumulative injuries, the deadline may vary based on when you became aware of the condition.
- Keep a file: Maintain copies of all medical records, employer reports, and any other relevant paperwork you receive regarding your claim.
- Follow your doctor’s orders: This step is crucial to support your recovery and maintain eligibility for benefits.
- Consult a Beltsville workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer can help you file for benefits and manage any disputes with the insurance company.
How Trollinger Law LLC Fights for Injured Workers in Beltsville
Trollinger Law LLC provides client-centered legal help to injured employees in Maryland. When you work with us, you can rest comfortably knowing that you have legal representation from a compassionate team that puts your interests first. Here’s what Ebony Harley had to say about her experience with our firm:
“Mr. Trollinger, Tiffany, and his team did a great job representing my husband during his workers’ compensation case. They made sure he was able to receive care when the insurance company tried to make him jump through hoops to get physical therapy. Additionally, they helped make the transition to a more reliable physical therapy company and put an end to the insurance company postponing his surgery. We highly recommend them for anyone who is being mistreated when all they want to do is get better. They will take the time to hear your case, provide a quick and accurate determination of the validity of your case, and support you every step of the way. No questions will go unanswered.”
Get a Free Consultation With a Beltsville Workplace Injury Lawyer
If you have questions about the workers’ compensation process or your claim, call Trollinger Law LLC now or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
