Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury in Maryland

Every step you take after a Maryland workplace accident is important. While your injury is likely covered by workers’ compensation benefits, a single error could put your claim in jeopardy.

Timothy A. Dachille and Associates are here to help if you were injured on the job. A Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm understands what it takes to get the most benefits available. If your claim is denied, we can help make things right. Here are some steps our firm suggests taking after a workplace injury.

Notify Your Employer About Your Work Accident

If your condition allows it, you should first report the accident to your employer after a workplace injury. Under the law, you have 10 days to provide notice of the incident. There is no benefit from putting this off, and waiting past the 10-day limit could put your recovery at risk.

You have options when it comes to how you provide this notice. While you have the option to report the incident to your supervisor verbally, it is better to create a paper trail and submit the notice in writing. However, anything you say to the employer could be used against you. Before you notify the company, you could benefit from a discussion with legal counsel.

There is also something known as constructive notice. Even if you do not formally notify your employer, they could be considered to have noticed if your supervisor was present for the injury or arranged for your emergency treatment. Even when this is the case, the safest option is to put the notice in writing.

Seek Medical Care Right Away

Seeking medical care as soon as possible is vital, not only for your workers’ compensation claim but also for your health. Even if your symptoms are mild or you believe your pain is going away, checking in with your physician can give you a clear diagnosis and provide you with a treatment plan. The lasting consequences of not receiving treatment can be severe.

There is also a risk to your claim if you do not seek medical care immediately. Without a diagnosis and evaluation by a doctor, you will not be entitled to any benefits based on your lost wages.

The good news is that—unlike other states—Maryland allows you to see the doctor of your choice. Instead of providing you with a list of approved options or even requiring you to see a specific physician, you are entitled to seek treatment from your own doctor. In some cases, your employer can require you to visit a certain clinic or physician to be evaluated, but you do not have to consent to their care beyond that.

Document Your Accident

If your condition allows it, documenting the scene of the incident can help with your case. For example, if you slipped and fell on the job, taking pictures of the surface where the fall occurred could provide you with useful evidence should your claim be denied.  Pictures of your injuries can also be very helpful later on when swelling, bruising, or open wounds have healed.

It is also a good idea to make note of any witnesses who might have seen your injury. Taking down their information allows your attorney to contact them if their testimony is needed at a hearing.

Discuss Your Case With a Maryland Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Following an accident on the job, the support of a Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer is critical. An attorney can assist you with every aspect of your case, from providing notice to your employer to appealing a denied claim. While this system was intended to be “no-fault,” insurance companies often find an excuse to deny a claim. We can work to negotiate a fair outcome or secure a favorable verdict in court if needed. Attempting to navigate this process on your own can lead to catastrophic consequences for your claim.

Let Timothy A. Dachille and Associates Help You With Your Claim

Suffering an injury on the job can be distressing for anyone. While Maryland’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide for individuals who were injured in this situation, the insurance companies might reject the claim and refuse to provide the compensation you deserve.

At Timothy A. Dachille and Associates, our attorneys are ready to assist you with your claim. We have a track record of success regarding workers’ compensation cases, and our experience could be invaluable to you. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation with a Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer.