The point of workers’ compensation laws is to help injured employees get proper treatment and recover from work-related medical conditions, so they can return to work promptly and earn a living. If you are a covered employee who is hurt at work, you will have to file a claim to obtain benefits from your employer’s insurance company. Maryland workers’ compensation laws require companies to carry an insurance policy to cover the costs and losses of an injured employee, so the insurer is where you start the process.
Filing a workers’ comp claim is not just a matter of filling out some forms and waiting for payment. You must provide a massive amount of information to get your claim approved. Errors and omissions will lead to a denial, or you could be significantly delayed in getting the benefits you deserve. To avoid the following critical mistakes with filing a claim, consult with a Baltimore County workers’ compensation lawyer right away.
Neglecting to Seek Medical Treatment
One of the most harmful blunders with workers’ comp is failing to get the medical care you need after a workplace accident. Head to the ER or urgent care facility as necessary to treat life-threatening and severe injuries, such as:
- Broken bones;
- Concussion, head injuries, and traumatic brain injury (TBI);
- Excessive bleeding;
- Trauma to the spinal cord;
- Loss of consciousness; and,
- Injuries to internal organs.
Not Using Your Own Doctor
If you need same-day care on a non-emergency basis, you can opt to seek treatment from your own primary care physician. Not all state workers’ comp laws allow this, but Maryland employees have a choice of doctor. You should visit your own healthcare provider because your medical records are already in your history, and your physician is aware of your medical conditions.
Failing to Notify Your Employer
Maryland has a strict deadline for giving your employer notice of a workplace accident that caused injuries. You have 10 days from the date of the incident to notify the company, either verbally or preferably in writing. However, there is typically no reason to wait to let your employer know about your injuries unless your lawyer advises otherwise.
Not Submitting Sufficient Evidence
An insurance company will not pay benefits without confirming that the workers’ comp claim is valid. It is up to you to provide the information necessary for the insurer to approve your claim. Your medical records will be the key to convincing the company, so you need to submit:
- All documents on diagnosing your injuries;
- The results of MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and other imaging tests;
- Success and failures with treatment;
- Physical limitations; and,
- Prognosis and outlook for recovery.
Rely on a Maryland Workers’ Comp Attorney for Assistance
These mistakes with filing a workers’ comp claim can lead to hassles, but they are preventable. You need a skilled lawyer who has knowledge of the relevant laws, so please contact Attorney Michael A. Freedman to discuss your case. You can set up a consultation at our offices in Owings Mills or Glen Burnie by calling 410.363.6848 or going online.
