If you’re injured at work in Maryland, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your health and your rights. The steps you take following an injury can significantly impact your ability to receive medical treatment and compensation for lost wages. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what to do if you’re injured at work in Maryland.
Report the Injury to Your Employer
The first step after sustaining an injury at work is to report the incident to your employer. This notification should be done as soon as possible after the injury occurs. Maryland law requires employees to report work-related injuries to their employer within ten days. Failure to report an injury in a timely manner could jeopardize your ability to receive workers’ compensation benefits.
Seek Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention after an injury is critical to your health and well-being. You should notify your employer of your injury and request that they provide you with medical care. If your employer does not provide medical care, you should seek treatment on your own. Make sure to keep copies of all medical records and bills related to your injury.
File a Workers’ Compensation Claim
In Maryland, most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured on the job. If you are eligible for workers’ compensation, you may be entitled to medical care, lost wages, and other benefits. To file a claim, you should complete a Workers’ Compensation Claim Form and submit it to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Consult with an Attorney
If you’ve been injured at work, it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process of filing a workers’ compensation claim, and can advise you on your legal rights and options. An attorney can also help you negotiate with your employer and the insurance company to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available.
Be Proactive About Your Recovery
After sustaining a work-related injury, it’s important to take proactive steps to promote your recovery. Follow your doctor’s orders and attend all medical appointments. Be honest with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and limitations. If your injury requires you to miss work, make sure to obtain a note from your doctor that outlines your work restrictions.
Stay in Communication with Your Employer
Throughout the recovery process, stay in communication with your employer. Keep them updated on your progress and any changes in your work restrictions. Your employer may be able to make accommodations that allow you to return to work sooner or with fewer restrictions. If you’re unsure about your employer’s responsibilities or your rights, speak with your attorney.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Sustaining a work-related injury can be a traumatic experience. It’s important to prioritize your mental health and well-being during the recovery process. Consider seeking counseling or therapy to help you cope with the emotional impact of your injury. Many workers’ compensation insurance policies cover mental health services, so be sure to check with your insurer.
At Alpert Schreyer, LLC, we have a team of experienced attorneys who can help you if you’ve been injured at work in Maryland. We can provide you with legal advice and representation throughout the workers’ compensation process. Our team can handle all aspects of the administrative process, including filing the claim, gathering evidence, and communicating with the insurance company and the Workers’ Compensation Commission. We can work with your healthcare providers to ensure that you receive the proper medical treatment for your work-related injury, and can negotiate with your employer and the insurance company to ensure that you receive the maximum benefits available. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you with your injured at work case in Maryland.