No matter what your employment in Maryland, the potential for getting hurt in a workplace accident or developing an occupational illness is high. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are around 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported annually by private employers. Of these, almost 950,000 cases involved days away from work, and many other workers suffered a pay cut or job transfer.
Fortunately, workers’ compensation laws aim to provide financial support during difficult times after a workplace accident. A Maryland workers’ compensation attorney can help you get the benefits you’re entitled to promptly, but a summary should explain how long a claim takes.
Maryland Workers’ Compensation Overview
The Maryland workers’ compensation process begins when an injured worker notifies their employer and files a claim with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC). Once the claim is submitted, the employer’s insurance provider reviews it and may conduct an investigation.
· If approved, benefits such as medical coverage and wage replacement begin.
· In the event of denial, the worker can request a hearing before the WCC.
The process can take weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the case and whether disputes arise between the worker, employer, or insurer.
Various Issues Affect the Length of a Workers’ Comp Claim
Several factors influence how long a workers’ comp claim takes in Maryland. The severity of the injury plays a major role, as more serious injuries may require extensive medical evaluations. The responsiveness of the employer and insurance company can also impact the timeline, especially if they delay communication or request additional documentation.
Disputes over eligibility, benefit amounts, or medical treatment may lead to hearings before the WCC, adding to the overall time. There is also the potential for a workers’ comp claim to proceed further to civil court in some cases.
How Long Does it Take to Receive Workers’ Comp Benefits in Maryland?
The timeline for receiving workers’ comp benefits in Maryland varies based on case specifics. Once a claim is approved, wage replacement benefits typically begin within 14 days. However, medical treatment coverage may start sooner if the employer’s insurer accepts liability.
Disputed claims take longer, as hearings and appeals can extend the process by several months. Permanent disability claims or lump-sum settlements may require additional evaluations, further delaying payment.
Avoiding Common Delays in Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claims
Delays in Maryland workers’ compensation claims often result from:
· Incomplete paperwork
· Employer disputes
· Insurer investigations
· A lack of medical evidence
· Failure to provide clear documentation of the injury
A Baltimore County Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Guide You Through Challenges
The process for filing a claim after a workplace injury can take time, especially if delays stand in the way. The Law Offices of Michael A. Freedman understands the challenges injured workers face and provides legal guidance to help ensure claims are handled efficiently. To discuss your case and explore your options, please call 410.363.6848 or visit us online. We are happy to schedule a free consultation at our Owings Mills or Glen Burnie office.
