Worker's Compensation
The attorneys at Stavisky, Yoffe & Castro, P.A. have been representing injured workers for over 35 years. We will work hard to get you the medical treatment and benefits you deserve.
In Maryland, workers’ compensation is a no-fault coverage for accidental injuries or occupational diseases sustained while working. This means that most injuries are covered, unless they were intentional or a result of gross misconduct. All employers in Maryland are required to have workers’ compensation insurance, and it's against the law for an employer to fire an injured worker for filing a claim.
DO I NEED A LAWYER?
The insurance companies and their lawyers are working hard to minimize or defeat your claim, to pay you less and limit your medical treatment. The workers’ compensation laws in Maryland are complicated, so the guidance of experienced counsel can greatly increase your recovery.
DO I HAVE TO PAY AN ATTORNEY OUT OF MY OWN POCKET?
There are no fees or expenses unless we win your case. The amount of the fee is fixed by law, must be approved by a Commissioner, and cannot exceed 20% of the recovery.
WHAT BENEFITS ARE AVAILABLE IN A WORKERS’ COMPENSATION CLAIM?
Maryland workers’ compensation laws provide you numerous benefits including unlimited medical treatment and prescriptions without co-pays for life, for everything reasonable and related to your injuries. You will also receive compensation for lost time from work, for permanent impairments and disabilities, and get help finding a new job if you are unable to perform your current job due to your injuries.
HOW DO I FILE A CLAIM?
In Maryland, you must file an Employee’s Claim Form with the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission in order to protect your rights under the law. Filing a claim with your employer’s insurance company is not sufficient to protect your rights and the time limitations prescribed by law.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE BEEN INJURED AT WORK?
- Notify your employer of the injury and all body parts injured.
- Call us as soon as possible at 410-669-0098.
ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL LAWS FOR FIRFIGHTERS, POLICE OFFICERS AND OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS?
Yes. If you are a Police Officer, Firefighter, Paramedic or Rescue Squad Member and have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) or heart disease you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. The law presumes that your high blood pressure or heart disease was caused by the stressful nature of your employment. Deputy Sheriffs in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City and Prince George’s County are also eligible to be covered if they have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or heart disease.
Additionally, Police Officers and Firefighters are entitled to higher awards of compensation in minor injury cases then other injured workers.