Should you find yourself in a position where you’ve been injured on a job or your job has caused an illness, you’ll need support dealing with the aftermath. These incidents can leave you with considerable medical debt and loss of wages if you’re unable to work after your injury or illness. Your employer is responsible for carrying Maryland workers comp, and the benefits this insurance provides will help you deal with your injury.
However, filing a comp claim can be a draining experience with a lot of complicated legal paperwork that needs to be understood so it can be filed correctly. Workers’ comp attorneys can help you avoid common pitfalls during a case, like being treated unfairly by employers or insurance agencies. They can also provide several benefits to help you win your claim.
Here are some of the advantages of hiring an attorney to help with your case:
Knowledge and Experience with Maryland Workers Comp
Attorneys specializing in workers comp insurance claims have significant knowledge and experience with the laws and regulations surrounding injury cases. Not only can they help you get the largest settlement possible for your injury, but they will also safeguard your rights throughout the entire process. These legal professionals will have a proven track record of winning claim settlements and will have an established reputation with the local courts and judges. When a case cannot reach a settlement during negotiations, workers’ comp lawyers will also have experience taking cases to court and winning by trial.
Free Initial Consult to Answer Questions
Most workers’ comp lawyers offer free initial consultations where you can discuss the details of your case. During this consultation, the lawyer will be able to give you an honest assessment of your case, including the strengths and weaknesses they can perceive from the information presented during the consultation. They will also be able to give you an estimate of the potential costs of your case. Thankfully, workers’ compensation attorneys typically work off a contingency fee, which means they only get paid when your case is won. This is beneficial if you cannot afford upfront legal fees.
During the consultation, you’ll have the time to ask your lawyers all your questions about your case, allowing them to provide personalized advice for your situation.
Questions to Ask During Consultation
1) What is your primary practice area, and how long have you been practicing?
You need a lawyer who specializes in this area and knows the ins and outs of workers’ comp laws. Asking these two questions will gauge their experience level in the field of workers’ compensation.
2) Have you represented clients with injuries similar to mine?
Attorneys with a background in handling cases with similar injuries to yours will know which arguments are the most effective at winning a case.
3) What is your success rate for settling workers’ comp cases?
Knowing an attorney’s success rate will give you insight into their experience and effectiveness at negotiating.
4) How many workers comp claims have you taken to trial, and what were their outcomes?
Usually, workers’ comp claims are settled by negotiations and mediation. If your claim cannot be settled this way, you will need to take your case to court. Working with a lawyer with trial wins is crucial, demonstrating they know how to argue your case before a judge.
5) Will I work directly with you or other members of your team?
Knowing who you will be working directly with throughout the case is necessary. Will you have access to your lawyer? Or will you be working with a paralegal or case worker?
Maximizing Benefits and Settlement Size
A lawyer who specializes in Maryland workers comp will be able to get you the largest settlement and the most benefits possible for your case. After assessing your case, your attorney will gather evidence, like documentation of the accident scene and the injury. They will interview witnesses that saw the incident and any documentation from your employer and any medical professionals you see for your injury. By arming themselves with direct knowledge of your case, they will ensure you receive the settlement you need for your injuries, lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages resulting from your workplace accident.
Providing Legal Representation and Protection
Having a worker’s compensation lawyer on your side will ensure you have proper representation throughout your case. Your legal counsel will handle all communication with the other parties, including insurance companies, your employer, and their attorneys. They will also be able to fill in the necessary documents to file your claim and submit any evidence they’ve gathered.
Lawyers who practice workers comp law have the experience to negotiate for a settlement on your behalf. They know how to pressure insurance companies and other parties involved to protect your rights. Your attorney will also represent you at hearings or trials should negotiations fail. This legal representation is crucial for presenting your case effectively.
Some employees may fear retaliation from their employers for filing a workers’ compensation claim. By hiring a lawyer specializing in Maryland workers comp, you will have protection of your rights, plus someone who will speak up for you if you are not being treated fairly or discriminated against.
Handling the Appeals Process
If, for some reason, your claim is denied or disputed, your worker’s comp lawyer can assist you through the appeals process. They will have a wealth of experience dealing with appeals and understanding the nuances of the legal system to prepare arguments for an appeal turnover effectively. This support can be crucial in navigating the complexities of the appeals process and ensuring your rights are protected.
Peace of Mind with a Fast Resolution
When working with an attorney on your worker’s comp claim, you can speed up the resolution of your claim. Your lawyer will know the deadlines and requirements involved with these cases and can work hard to make sure that your claim is processed promptly.
Having skilled legal counselors on your team will give you peace of mind, knowing your claim case is in capable hands. This will allow you to focus on the recovery of your injury without adding the stress of dealing with the legal system on your own.
Get the Most Out of Your Claim, Hire an Attorney
Healing from the physical and emotional damage from an injury is draining. Hiring an attorney with extensive knowledge of Maryland workers comp will ensure you receive the largest settlement and the most benefits possible for your injury. Your legal counsel will be able to provide protection for your employee rights and interests throughout the claims process, eliminating your need to communicate with pusy insurance companies or possibly hostile employers. Safeguard yourself and your claim by hiring a workers comp attorney.