Workers’ compensation is designed to give you financial support after an accident or injury at work. If your employer is delaying the process or denying your claim, get legal support from Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC. Our Aberdeen, MD workers’ compensation lawyer will inform you of your rights and build a case to get you the money you deserve. Call now to set up a free consultation and start the process of holding your workplace responsible.
What A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Does
Our workers’ compensation lawyer gets employees the benefits they need to cover the costs of an injury or illness they received at work. In Maryland, you do not have to prove fault to claim workers’ comp. This means that there doesn’t have to be a negligent party for you to get financial support. Even if your injury was caused by an innocent accident, you are entitled to workers’ comp benefits.
Sometimes, employers deny workers’ compensation claims because they do not want to pay. Common reasons companies delay giving benefits are:
- Insisting your injury didn’t happen at work or during your work hours
- You waited too long to file
- There aren’t medical records to support your claim
- You intentionally hurt yourself or acted completely inappropriately
- You failed a drug or alcohol test following the incident
While some of these statements would absolve them of liability, many employers don’t have sufficient evidence to support their defense. It is the job of our Aberdeen workers’ compensation lawyer to show they are being untruthful.
You want to seek the help of our workers’ compensation lawyer if your employer:
- Is taking an unreasonably long time to process your claim
- Denies your request for workers’ comp
- If falsely accusing you of fraud
Justice For Workers’ Compensation Claims
The workers’ compensation benefit helps you pay for the cost of medical care and temporarily supports you financially while you are recovering and unable to work. However, there are limitations to the compensation packages.
For example, if your employer can move you to a role that has comparable responsibilities to your regular job but accommodates your new limitations, you might not get lost wages. In addition, you need to provide medical records throughout your recovery process, especially if you want to extend your benefits.
If you were catastrophically injured at work, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. Our workers’ compensation lawyer will guide you through the qualifications for this process. Getting additional money outside of regular benefits normally requires proof of gross negligence on behalf of your employer. Poor maintenance, hazardous conditions, or willfully breaking labor laws are all factors our attorneys will consider when determining the best course of action for your case.
When you are hurt at work, you should be able to take advantage of workers’ compensation benefits. If your employer is denying access to financial support for any reason, contact Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC now. Our Aberdeen workers’ compensation lawyer will listen to your concerns and get your voice heard. You are not responsible for medical bills related to work injuries. Stand up for your rights and get support from an experienced law firm that consistently advocates for safe and fair workplaces for everyone.
Why A Workers’ Compensation Claim May Be Denied
Workers’ compensation is designed to provide financial relief for employees injured or ill due to workplace conditions. However, as an Aberdeen, MD workers’ compensation lawyer knows all too well, not all claims are approved. A denial can be frustrating and stressful, especially if you rely on these benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. If your claim is being denied, call Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC for legal assistance.
Failure To Report The Injury In Time
Workers’ compensation laws require employees to report workplace injuries or illnesses within a specific timeframe, which varies by state. If you fail to notify your employer promptly, your claim may be denied.
Employers often require written notice of the injury, even if you have verbally informed a supervisor. Delayed reporting can raise doubts about whether the injury occurred at work or if it is as severe as claimed. To protect your rights, report your injury immediately and document the notification process.
The Injury Did Not Occur During Work-Related Activities
For a workers’ compensation claim to be valid, the injury must have occurred while performing work-related duties. Claims may be denied if the insurer or employer believes the injury happened outside work or during activities unrelated to your job.
For example, an injury sustained while commuting to work generally does not qualify unless it occurred in a company vehicle or during a required business trip. Similarly, injuries that happen during unauthorized breaks or while engaging in horseplay may also be excluded.
Providing clear evidence, such as witness statements or surveillance footage, can help establish that the injury occurred during your employment.
Lack Of Medical Evidence
Medical evidence is critical to proving the existence and severity of a workplace injury or illness. A claim may be denied if insufficient medical documentation supports your case. This could happen if:
- You did not seek medical treatment immediately after the injury
- Your doctor’s report does not clearly link the injury to your job duties
- There are inconsistencies in your medical records
To strengthen your claim, see a healthcare provider as soon as possible, follow their treatment recommendations, and ensure that your medical records detail the cause and extent of your injury.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Insurance companies often scrutinize claims involving pre-existing conditions, such as chronic back pain or repetitive strain injuries. They may argue that your injury is not work-related but instead stems from a condition you already had.
While pre-existing conditions do not automatically disqualify you from workers’ compensation, you must demonstrate that your job aggravated or worsened the condition. A detailed medical opinion linking your work duties to the exacerbation of your condition can help overcome this hurdle.
The Employer Or Insurer Disputes The Claim
Employers or their insurance carriers may deny claims if they dispute the details of the injury. Common disputes include:
- Claiming the injury is fraudulent or exaggerated
- Asserting that the employee violated safety protocols or company policies
- Arguing that the employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the injury
If your claim is disputed, gathering evidence such as incident reports, eyewitness testimony, or drug test results (if applicable) is essential to refute these allegations. Your Aberdeen workers’ compensation lawyer can help obtain this evidence.
Procedural Errors In Filing The Claim
Workers’ compensation claims require strict adherence to procedures, including deadlines and form submissions. A claim may be denied if you:
- Miss the filing deadline set by state law
- Fail to complete required forms correctly
- Provide inconsistent or incomplete information
Working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help ensure your claim is filed properly and on time.
Call Our Office For Help
If your claim is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. Consulting with an Aberdeen workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the appeals process, strengthen your case, and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact Parker, Pallet, Slezak & Russell, LLC if you are having issues getting the benefit you deserve.
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"I had an amazing experience with Parker, Pallett, Slezak and Russell. My lawyer was Carmen Slezak she was amazing her and her team worked with me every step of the way. Amazing staff always an amazing atmosphere, friendly, and if you like dogs they have one or two at the office. I'm so thankful and greatful to have met the staff and feel almost like family. Thank you again Parker, Pallett, Slezak & Russell law office."
G Amato
Parker, Pallett, Slezak & Russell, LLC
11450 Pulaski Hwy
White Marsh, MD 21162
Toll free: (410) 779-3590