Owings Mills Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
Maryland law provides important legal protections and rights for workers who have been injured on the job. In this no-fault system, it does not matter who was at fault for the injury.
Employers in Maryland are required by law to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance to cover employees who suffer injuries or illnesses related to their work. Because you will be dealing with an insurance company, having an experienced Workers’ Compensation attorney by your side is crucial to protect your rights throughout the process.
What Should I Do if I Have Been Injured on the Job in Owings Mills?
If you suffer a job-related injury in Owings Mills, there are three key steps you need to take:
- Notify your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 10 days, but no later than 30 days after your injury. Providing timely notice—preferably in writing—is essential, as failing to notify your employer within the required timeframe can be a reason for your claim to be denied.
- Seek prompt medical treatment for your injuries. Maryland law allows you to choose your treating physician after the initial emergency care, typically from a panel of doctors provided by your employer or insurer. It’s important not to let your employer pressure you into seeing a specific doctor outside of this process.
- Hire a Workers’ Compensation attorney to guide you through the legal process and help you address any challenges that may arise.
What if the Injury Was My Fault?
Workers’ Compensation in Maryland operates as a no-fault system. This means that even if you were partially or fully responsible for your workplace injury, you are still generally entitled to benefits. There are limited exceptions, such as injuries resulting from intentional or reckless misconduct, which could affect your claim. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate these complexities.
What Benefits Am I Eligible to Receive?
Workers’ Compensation benefits are designed to cover your medical expenses and replace a portion of your lost wages. Specifically:
- Medical benefits cover reasonable and necessary treatment related to your injury.
- Wage replacement benefits provide two-thirds of your average weekly wage, up to a maximum limit set by law. In 2025, the maximum weekly benefit in Maryland is $1,493.
- Additional benefits may include vocational rehabilitation and death benefits, such as funeral expenses if a loved one dies as a result of a workplace accident.
What Happens if My Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied?
Insurance companies often have a financial incentive to deny claims. However, they do not have the final say. If your claim is denied, you have 30 days from the denial date to file an appeal with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (MWCC).
An administrative law judge will review your case and the evidence presented at a hearing. If your claim is still denied by the MWCC, you can further appeal to Maryland’s state courts. Often, the appeals process leads insurance companies to reconsider and offer a settlement, but if not, a judge can order your benefits to be paid.
Can I Be Required to Return to Work?
Once you reach the point of maximum medical improvement (MMI)—meaning your condition is unlikely to improve further—the insurance company may request that you undergo an examination by an independent medical examiner (IME). This doctor is usually selected and paid for by the insurance company. You are generally required to attend this exam, but the results can impact whether you are considered fit to return to work, including light-duty assignments.
If you believe you are being wrongfully pressured to return to work, you have the right to file an appeal to protect your benefits.
Should I Accept a Workers’ Compensation Settlement?
If your injury results in permanent disability, the insurance company might offer a lump-sum settlement to resolve your claim. While this can be beneficial in some cases, providing you with immediate compensation for lost wages and medical costs, settlements should be carefully reviewed and negotiated. Insurance companies may initially offer less than what you deserve. An experienced Workers’ Compensation lawyer can help evaluate the offer and negotiate on your behalf.
Why Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
Workers’ Compensation claims are governed by complex laws and regulations. Every decision made by the insurance company can be challenged. Hiring a lawyer means you gain an advocate who will:
- Explain the laws and legal steps relevant to your case.
- Help you gather and organize the evidence needed for your claim.
- Prepare and file all necessary paperwork.
- Represent you in appeals if your claim is denied.
- Negotiate fair settlements when appropriate.
- Ensure your medical care is covered and adequately provided.
Dealing with an injury is already difficult. Navigating the legal and insurance hurdles without professional help can make the process much more stressful. A Workers’ Compensation lawyer can protect your rights and help you focus on recovery.
Contact the Owings Mills Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton
If you have been hurt on the job, contact the experienced Owings Mills Workers’ Compensation lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. Call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
We have offices in Baltimore and Owings Mills, allowing us to represent clients in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.