How do I Apply for Workers’ Compensation in Maryland or Virginia?
Workers’ Compensation is an insurance program established by state law that all employers are required to have for the benefit of their employees. The system is designed to provide employees who have been injured “in the course of employment” with access to benefits – payment for medical treatment, prescriptions, supplies, equipment, hospital/doctor bills and a portion of your average weekly wages – while they are unable to work.
Filing a claim is not hard, but you need to know what to do.
How to Apply for Workers’ Compensation in Maryland and Virginia
Under Maryland and Virginia law, an employee can file a claim for workers’ compensation up to two years from the date of the accident. However, a claim should be filed as soon as possible to avoid any unforeseen complications.
- Medical Treatment: After being injured on the job, the first thing you should do is seek medical treatment. Your health should be your first priority.
- Report Your Injury: As soon as you are able, notify your employer of your injury. Failure to report an injury in a timely manner can forfeit your right to workers’ compensation benefits. File an incident report and put everything in writing. Doing so will make it nearly impossible to dispute your claim.
- File Your Claim: Your employer should provide you with a claim form immediately after you notify them of your injury. If not, request a form. It is your right. Then, fill out the “Employee” section and SIGN and DATE before returning the form to your employer, who will then complete the rest of the document. Be sure you receive a copy of the completed form for your records.
- Sit and Wait: Upon completion of the claim form, the insurance company should mail you a status letter within fourteen (14) days. Following an approved claim, the employer or insurer is required to begin payment within fifteen (15) days.
- Seek Legal Representation: There is no requirement that an injured worker must hire an attorney to file or pursue a workers’ compensation claim. However, an incomplete or improperly completed form may be returned, delaying the process and your benefits. Furthermore, employees who do not hire an attorney may fail to obtain all the benefits to which they are entitled. Workers’ compensation claims can be difficult to understand so let the experienced attorneys at Jenkins Block & Associates help. We offer free consultations and only receive payment if we win your case. Call us today and allow us to be the solution you’ve been searching for!
Contact an Attorney Today!
Jenkins Block and Associates has over 43 years of combined experience assisting clients in their workers’ compensation claims in both Maryland and Virginia. With four office locations throughout both states, Jenkins Block & Associates is well-positioned to meet your legal needs.
If you have any questions, please CALL US at 1-800-243-2439 to be directed to the Jenkins Block & Associates location nearest you.