Silver Spring, MD Workers Compensation Lawyer
Many people who do not get the workers compensation they are entitled to find it easier and more efficient to have a Silver Spring, MD workers compensation lawyer help them to get this, than if they were to try to do this on their own.
What is workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation is insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or develop an illness that is job-related. The majority of employers must purchase workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. Each state has its own workers compensation requirements. If a worker is injured at work or while performing their job duties, workers’ compensation will cover their medical expenses and pay compensation for other losses, including disability benefits to cover lost wages while they recover from their injury.
If you or someone close to you has been denied the workers compensation they are entitled to from a job in Silver Spring, it may be in your best interest to contact a workers compensation lawyer who is licensed to practice in MD, or the state where your employer or former employer is located.
Who qualifies for workers’ compensation?
All workers in Maryland qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured as a result of their job. They must be an actual employee of the company and the company must be required by state law to provide workers compensation benefits. Independent contractors do not qualify for workers’ comp benefits. There are situations, however, where an employer will try to classify a worker as an independent contractor. If this happens in your case, contact a workers comp attorney immediately for help.
What types of injuries are covered under workers comp?
Any type of injury that occurs as a direct result of doing work can be classified as a covered injury and qualify for benefits. Illnesses that are caused by toxic exposure in the workplace and repetitive stress injuries are also covered under workers compensation laws. Off-site injuries and illnesses may also qualify if the worker was performing required work duties at the time.
To find out the specific laws that protect Silver Spring workers rights and how they may apply to your claim, contact a workers compensation lawyer who is licensed to practice in MD.
What if the company I work for does not carry workers compensation insurance like they are required to?
Even though employers are required by law to have workers’ compensation insurance, there are still those employers who ignore the law and do not have insurance to cover injured employees.
Many states have special funds reserved for people who are injured while working for an uninsured employer. These funds usually cover medical bills and cover a portion of the injured worker’s lost wages. Some states also have temporary disability programs. A workers compensation lawyer in MD can help you obtain benefits from employers in Silver Spring, as well as pursue a liability case against the uninsured employer through a personal injury lawsuit.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim against my employer?
Each state has its own statute of limitations set for how long an injured worker has to file a claim. There are different factors that may need to be considered, as well, such as date of diagnosis of job-related illnesses or conditions. A workers comp attorney will be able to evaluate your case and make that determination.
What if the work injury is fatal?
When a worker is killed as a result of a job-related injury or illness, their spouse and minor children may be able to receive workers compensation benefits on behalf of the victim. There are many losses that can be covered under these benefits, including funeral and burial expenses. An attorney can evaluate your case and see exactly what your family may be entitled to.
For a highly rated Silver Spring, MD workers compensation lawyer, contact the dedicated legal team at Cohen & Cohen for a free case consultation and evaluation.