Catastrophic Work Injuries: The Importance of Hiring a Workers Compensation Lawyer
A skilled workers’ compensation lawyer Baltimore, MD locals, recommend can make all the difference when it comes to recovering damages from a catastrophic workplace injury. Sadly, many people are seriously injured while on the job every year in the United States. In the most extreme cases, workers can sustain a fatal injury either at the time of the accident or sometime later when they succumb to their injury.
As a result of these catastrophic injuries, our Baltimore, MD workers’ compensation lawyers share that millions of dollars are spent on healthcare costs and medical treatments. Who pays for them? In the cases of workplace accidents, workers’ compensation insurance can cover a certain percentage, but it’s not likely to cover all of a victim’s costs. And those costs can be extraordinary, forcing the victim to pay out of their own pocket if their personal health insurance does not cover their damages. However, all is not lost. A workers’ compensation lawyer Baltimore, MD residents turn to from Greenberg Law Offices may be able to help you get the justice you deserve.
How a Baltimore, MD Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help You
When an employee sustains an extreme injury while on the job, workers’ compensation is intended to cover their medical treatment costs. It is also supposed to cover a portion of their wages for however long they are not able to return to work. In most cases, the workers’ compensation system works as it should. However, it is designed to help the majority of workers who, in most cases, do not suffer a catastrophic injury. If you were seriously injured at work, or your loved one was killed in a workplace accident, the amount of compensation offered to you was likely well below what it should have been. A workers’ compensation lawyer Baltimore, MD employees rely on from our firm can help you with any or all of the following:
- Negotiate with the insurance company to get a higher settlement than they previously offered you.
- Submit your workers’ compensation claim with the required documentation to maximize the likelihood that your claim will be accepted the first time.
- Resubmit a workers’ compensation claim if the original claim you submitted yourself was denied.
- File a lawsuit against your employer instead of a workers’ compensation claim if the offered workers’ compensation benefits are inadequate.
- Identify and include past, current, and future damages related to your workplace injury. A workers’ compensation lawyer in Baltimore, MD, from our firm will have in-depth knowledge of potential costs you may encounter down the line. Examples include additional surgeries, home healthcare, and physical rehabilitation.
Did you sustain a catastrophic injury while at work?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a workers’ compensation lawyer, Baltimore, MD victims trust from Greenberg Law Offices to find out how we may be able to help you. If you were catastrophically injured, you deserve to have your injury costs paid for by your employer. Do not agree to any offer made by the insurance company or your employer until you talk to us first. We will not even charge you for your first meeting with one of our attorneys. This will provide you with the opportunity to discover more about your legal options.
Call Greenberg Law Offices today at 410-539-5250 to request your free consultation with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer Baltimore, MD offers.
Taking Action Following a Work Related Accident
On the job injuries may call for the help of a workers’ compensation lawyer Baltimore, MD victims can rely on in their time of need. No person wants to find themselves contending with an accident that has occurred at work. This is especially true of the injuries you are facing are debilitating or life-changing. In some cases, your injury may not only cause you pain but impact your ability to earn a living. Greenberg Law Offices can provide you with crucial assistance in not only understanding workers’ compensation benefits but helping to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Call our Baltimore, Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer at Greenberg Law Offices today to get started.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation
Work-related injuries can be devastating to both an employee and employer, which is why workers’ compensation insurance is a benefit available across the country. This form of insurance is mutually beneficial to both employee and employer for several reasons. An employee can obtain not only compensation for medical care but also coverage for a portion of their lost wages and even vocational rehabilitation in the event they are unable to continue filling the expectations of the job due to injuries. Our workers’ compensation lawyer in Baltimore, MD shares that, in exchange for workers’ compensation benefits, an employee waives the right to sue their employer. This can protect employers from facing lawsuits that can ultimately put their businesses at risk. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. Meaning, even if you or your employer is at fault, you still can access benefits. However, it’s essential to be aware that there are some situations where your claim may be denied; if this is the case, you will want to be sure and contact a Baltimore, Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer immediately.
Taking Legal Action Against a Responsible Third Party
It’s likely that if you were injured on the job, and accessing workers’ compensation benefits, you may not have considered filing a claim against a responsible third party. If a third party can be held accountable, you may be able to retain compensation for your damages while also obtaining the benefits of workers’ compensation through your employer. Examples of situations that may call for a third party claim with the assistance of our Baltimore, MD workers’ compensation lawyer include:
- Car Accidents
- Defective Products
- Exposure to Toxic Substances
Be aware that workers’ compensation insurance may not cover all of the damages from the accident. If there is a negligent party that can be held responsible, your workers’ compensation lawyer serving Baltimore, MD can help you to prove:
- Duty of Care
- Breach of Duty
- Causation
- Damages
Greenberg Law Offices can assist you in taking action and ensuring that your rights are kept at the forefront of your case.
Facing a work-related injury can be stressful, especially if your ability to work has been impacted. During this time, you must consult with Greenberg Law Offices to determine the most appropriate way to move forward. To learn more about how our workers’ compensation lawyer serving Baltimore, MD can help you, contact our offices today.
10 Injuries Not Covered By Workers’ Comp
When it comes to workers’ compensation, it’s essential to understand which workplace injuries are covered and which are not according to a Baltimore, MD workers compensation lawyer. At Greenberg Law Offices, we often encounter questions about the types of injuries that might not be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Here’s a detailed look at some of the most common scenarios where workers’ comp may not apply.
1. Injuries Sustained While Commuting
Workers’ compensation typically does not cover injuries that occur while you are commuting to and from work. This is known as the “going and coming rule.” Unless your commute is part of your job duties, such as a delivery driver traveling between assignments, injuries sustained during your daily drive to and from work are generally not covered. This can get a little more complicated if you are driving a work vehicle, but a lawyer can help determine if your injuries are covered or not.
2. Self-Inflicted Injuries
If an injury is self-inflicted, it will not be covered by workers’ compensation. This includes both intentional harm and situations where the injury results from an altercation initiated by the employee. Workers’ comp is designed to cover accidental injuries, not those caused by intentional actions.
3. Injuries From Horseplay Or Roughhousing
Injuries resulting from horseplay, roughhousing, or other forms of unprofessional behavior are not typically covered. Workers’ compensation is meant to cover injuries that occur during the course of regular work activities, not those that result from behavior outside the scope of normal job duties. As our attorneys who made the Maryland Super Lawyers list can explain, just because you were on the clock when you were injured does not mean your job will cover it.
4. Injuries While Under The Influence
If you are injured at work while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, your injury will likely not be covered by workers’ compensation. Employers have the right to deny claims if they can prove that the injury was a direct result of impaired behavior.
5. Injuries From Voluntary Recreational Activities
Many companies sponsor recreational activities, such as company picnics or sports leagues. Injuries sustained during these voluntary activities are generally not covered by workers’ compensation unless attendance is mandatory or the event is directly related to your job duties.
6. Injuries From Pre-Existing Conditions
Workers’ compensation does not cover injuries that are purely the result of a pre-existing condition. However, as our Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Maryland ranked attorneys can explain, if a work-related activity exacerbates a pre-existing condition, you may be eligible for coverage. It is crucial to distinguish between the two, as the burden of proof lies with the employee to show that work activities worsened the condition.
7. Mental Health Issues Without A Physical Injury
While some mental health issues may be covered if they result from a physical workplace injury or an extremely stressful work environment, many mental health conditions that arise independently are not covered by workers’ compensation. Proving a direct correlation between work and mental health can be challenging without a preceding physical injury.
8. Injuries From Personal Errands
If you are injured while running a personal errand during work hours, your injury may not be covered. Workers’ compensation is intended to cover injuries that occur while performing work-related tasks. If you deviate from your work duties for personal reasons and get injured, your claim might be denied. This can get especially tricky if you are running a personal errand that still applies to work but might not be part of your actual job, which is where a lawyer can help.
9. Injuries During Unauthorized Breaks
Taking unauthorized breaks can also result in injuries not being covered by workers’ compensation. If you leave the premises or engage in activities outside the scope of your employment without permission, any injuries sustained during that time may not be covered.
10. Injuries After Termination Or Layoff
Injuries that occur after you have been terminated or laid off are generally not covered by workers’ compensation. The injury must occur during your period of employment to be eligible for benefits. Claims made after employment has ended are typically not considered valid.
At Greenberg Law Offices, we understand that the workers’ compensation process can be complex. If you have been injured at work and are unsure whether your injury is covered, we are here to help. Contact us to speak with a Baltimore workers compensation lawyer who can assist you with your claim. If you have questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for a consultation. Let us help you get the benefits you deserve.
Baltimore Workers Compensation FAQs
When you’re injured at work, it can be overwhelming to deal with medical bills, lost wages, and understanding your rights under workers compensation laws. Having the support of an experienced Baltimore, MD workers compensation lawyer can make a significant difference in your case. Below, we address some of the most common questions people have when seeking legal representation for workers compensation claims.
When Should I Hire A Workers Compensation Lawyer?
It’s best to hire a workers compensation lawyer as soon as you face any difficulties with your claim. If your claim is denied, your employer disputes your injury, or the offered settlement doesn’t cover your medical expenses and lost wages, it’s time to consider legal assistance. If you’ve been out of work for an extended period or your injury has long-term consequences, having a lawyer can help secure the compensation you’re entitled to. At any point during the process, if you feel uncertain about how to proceed, consulting a lawyer is a smart move.
Can A Workers Compensation Lawyer Speed Up My Claim?
A workers compensation lawyer can help streamline your claim process. While no one can guarantee how long it will take for a claim to be resolved, a lawyer can make sure paperwork is filed correctly, deadlines are met, and unnecessary delays are avoided. Often, claims are delayed because of mistakes or missing information. A lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring all required information is submitted on time and the insurance company is held accountable for processing your claim efficiently. It does not hurt to reach out before even filing to better understand the process.
Can I Switch Workers Compensation Lawyers During My Case?
Yes, you can switch lawyers during your workers compensation case if you’re unsatisfied with your current representation. It’s important to feel confident in your lawyer’s ability to handle your case effectively. If you feel that your lawyer is not communicating well, is unresponsive, or lacks the knowledge to move your case forward, seeking a second opinion or hiring a new lawyer is an option. The transition process may involve some paperwork, but a new lawyer can help with that. At our office, we are committed to providing reliable and accessible representation for workers compensation cases. We have been working in the Baltimore area for over 50 years, working on cases just like yours.
Can I Sue My Employer Outside Of Workers Compensation?
In most cases, you cannot sue your employer outside of the workers compensation system. Workers compensation is designed to be the exclusive remedy for workplace injuries, meaning it provides medical benefits and wage replacement without the need for a lawsuit. However, there are some exceptions. If your injury was caused by intentional harm or a third party (such as a contractor), you may be able to pursue additional legal action. A lawyer can review your case and advise you on whether any such options are available.
What Happens If My Workers Compensation Claim Is Denied?
If your claim is denied, you still have options. You can appeal the decision and present evidence to support your claim. A lawyer can assist in filing the appeal, gathering medical records, witness statements, and other documentation needed to prove your case. Many claims are initially denied due to insufficient documentation or minor errors in the filing process. By working with a Baltimore workers compensation lawyer, you’ll improve your chances of a successful appeal and can focus on your recovery while the legal aspects are handled.
Injuries at work can have serious impacts on your life, and handling a workers compensation claim on your own can be stressful. Working with an experienced lawyer can make the process smoother and increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve. If you’re dealing with a workplace injury, reach out to Greenberg Law Offices to discuss your case. Our team is here to help you every step of the way — they have won several awards such as Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Maryland serving people just like yourself with worker’s comp claims. Call us today for a free consultation.
Client Review
“The Greenberg Law Office has been a tremendous support during a very turbulent time in my life. Every step of the way I could count on them to make arrangements and smooth the way after my work injury. Their attention to detail and conscientiousness have been a blessing and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for all that they did, which insured a positive resolution.”
Kimberly Jarrell
