Maryland workers comp settlements are designed to protect employees who are injured at work by providing settlements to cover expenses caused by injuries. If you’ve been injured on the job and want to file a claim, you may be able to get financial compensation in the form of workers’ compensation payments and medical treatment that you need to recover from your injuries, as well as lost wages while you’re unable to work because of your injuries. However, those who are familiar with the law know that it can sometimes be difficult to get workers’ comp settlements that are sufficient in size to truly help you with your recovery and lost wages. Learn more on how you can get the most out of your settlement according to our friends at Cohen & Cohen.
1) Talk with Your Lawyer
Before you can receive any benefits, you’ll need to file a claim. And once you’ve filed a claim, you’ll need to negotiate a settlement with your employer’s insurance company. This is not something you should do on your own. Instead, contact a lawyer to help with your case so they can collect the proper details and file all paperwork correctly to get you what you deserve out of your case. Make sure to tell your lawyer everything so they can properly represent you and your situation.
2) Keep a Journal
Keep a journal of your injuries and pain levels from the very beginning. This will be helpful in communicating the extent of your injuries to your doctor and lawyer. It can also help you document a pattern, if you are having chronic issues with an injury or pain. If there is a significant difference between how you feel before and after a work shift, then this is something that should be noted as well. Basically, document everything!
3) Do Everything Your Doctor Says
To get the most out of your claim, it’s important that you follow your doctor’s orders. Avoid doing anything that could potentially worsen your injury – this means no alcohol or cigarettes. Asking for copies of records from your doctor will also help with filling out paperwork and getting the settlement you deserve. It is in your best interest to talk to a lawyer about your case if you are injured on the job. They can offer insight into how best to proceed with your case and what steps you should take next. A lawyer can also provide an assessment of whether they think they have a good chance of winning based on what evidence has been collected so far, which heavily relies on your medical records.
4) Answer Questions Truthfully
This is the most important thing you can do, and the simplest! Tell your attorney the truth at every stage of the process so they can get you the compensation you deserve. If you lie at any point, your case will no longer be valid and you will lose any potential benefits.
5) Ask for Help When You Need It
If you’ve been injured at work, you may be entitled to benefits. These benefits can help you cover your medical expenses and lost wages while you’re out of work. But getting the settlement you deserve can be a challenge. That’s why you should contact an attorney immediately if you have been injured at work.