Top Reasons For Denied Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claims
Workers’ compensation benefits protect you on the job. They play a major role in covering all medical expenses and any lost wages you incur due to job-related injuries or occupational illnesses. Unfortunately, even though you are legally entitled to these benefits, claims are often denied. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains common reasons why and how to protect your rights.
Common Reasons Behind Maryland Workers’ Compensation Denials
Workers’ compensation is a program that mandates employers to cover the costs associated with on-the-job accidents and occupational injuries. It is administered on the state level through the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC).
When a worker is injured in the course of performing their job or becomes ill due to exposure to hazardous conditions on work sites, they can file a claim through the WCC. However, it is insurers who ultimately pay out benefits, and it is not uncommon for them to dispute or deny your claim. This prevents you from getting the benefits you deserve. Among the most common reasons for workers’ compensation denials in Maryland include:
- Failing to report your injuries or illness within the required timelines;
- Failing to get medical care or to see an approved provider;
- Not submitting the required medical documentation and other evidence to support your claim;
- Not responding to requests from the insurer or the WCC for more information or other communications.
Protecting Your Rights To Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Maryland
Under the Maryland Code, employers are generally required to provide workers’ compensation insurance for their employees, regardless of the size of their business. This coverage includes full-time and part-time workers as well as seasonal help.
If you are injured or become ill due to conditions on the job, it is important to take certain steps to protect your rights to benefits. These include:
- Inform your supervisor, employer, or others in authority of what happened immediately;
- Make sure they file an accident report;
- Get the names of everyone involved, including witnesses;
- Take photos or videos of the scene, if possible;
- Seek medical care from an approved provider;
- Make sure your doctor knows your injury or illness is work-related and includes it on your chart.
- Keep copies of all evidence associated with your case including all medical records and work notes for your claim.
- Contact our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorneys to help file a claim and protect your rights.
After getting medical care, check to ensure a workers’ compensation claim is filed with the WCC on your behalf. There is a two year statute of limitations for filing claims from the date of an accidental injury or in an occupational disease claim, it is two years from the date that you have actual knowledge that your disability was due to your employment. Statute of limitations are complex matters and if you want to file a claim you should contact an attorney as soon as possible.
In the weeks following, be alert for any correspondence you receive from the insurer or the WCC. If your claim is denied, you have the right to file an appeal.
Contact Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Work-related injuries and illnesses in Maryland can jeopardize your health and impact the financial security of you and your loved ones. Berman, Sobin, Gross LLP. fights for the rights of workers, helping them get the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve. To protect your rights in a claim, contact our Maryland workers’ compensation attorneys and request a consultation today.
Sources:
wcc.state.md.us/
casetext.com/statute/code-of-maryland/article-labor-and-employment/title-9-workers-compensation/subtitle-5-entitlement-to-and-liability-for-compensation
