Workplace injuries can be devastating for both employees and their employers. This is why the worker’s compensation system was put in place to protect all parties. When injured workers are finding it difficult to receive the benefits they deserve, it can be beneficial to hire a workplace injury lawyer in Southern Maryland. Hiring a lawyer allows the rights of the injured worker to be protected through the process.
What Does the Law Require For Worker’s Compensation?
The vast majority of employers in the state of Maryland are required to have worker’s compensation insurance. This insurance provides medical and wage benefits and protects the employer from being sued by the employee. Unfortunately, there are often issues when it comes to pursuing a worker’s compensation claim and denials are not uncommon. When issues arise, injured workers can hire a workplace injury lawyer in Southern Maryland.
Once an injured worker has missed at least five days due to their injury, the employer is required to file a Form 101 which is the Employer’s First Report of Injury/Fatality. The employer is also required to file an injury claim with their insurance company.
Should the injured worker miss less than five days of work due to their injury, this becomes a medical only claim. This means the employer does not have to submit Form 101 but they are still required to file a claim with their insurance company, so the injured worker’s medical bills are paid.
What Happens When Issues Arise?
Unfortunately, issues can arise in the course of filing for worker’s compensation benefits. Injured employees are sometimes denied their injury claim by either their employer or the insurance company. Some injured workers experience ongoing delays in receiving their benefits or do not receive the amount they are owed.
When problems arise, it behooves an injured worker to seek help from a lawyer. Although an injured worker cannot sue their employer, a lawyer can help with the appeals process and negotiations with the employer and insurance company.
Call Right Away
If you have been injured on the job, now is the time for you to seek help from a lawyer. For further information on your rights and how a lawyer can help, contact us right away.
