How Much Is Your Workers’ Compensation Case Worth in Maryland?

If you were injured at work in Maryland, you are likely wondering: How much is my workers’ comp case worth? It is a fair and important question.

Unfortunately, it does not come with a simple answer. Every Maryland workers’ compensation claim is different, and your settlement will depend on a range of legal, medical, and financial factors. What you can do right now is educate yourself and partner with a law firm that understands precisely how to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.

At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we represent injured workers across Baltimore and throughout Maryland who are seeking fair compensation after workplace injuries. Our legal team has established a strong reputation for challenging insurance companies that attempt to undervalue workers’ compensation settlements. We do not let clients settle for less than they deserve.

We Fight for Your Rights After a Work Injury

Attorney Ryan Dickriede, Esq., brings years of litigation experience in complex personal injury and workers’ compensation claims. As a trusted Baltimore workers’ compensation lawyer, Mr. Dickriede is known for building strong, evidence-based cases that reflect the full value of a client’s injuries, medical expenses, and loss of income. His courtroom background and insurance defense insight help level the playing field for injured workers.

“I could not be more grateful for the legal support I received,” shared one recent client. “Holzman & Dickriede took the time to understand my injury, fought the insurance company’s low offer, and got me the compensation I truly needed to move forward.”

Understanding the average workers’ comp payout in Maryland or knowing how your Maryland workers’ compensation settlement is calculated is not just helpful—it is critical to making informed decisions.

Here, we will break down what your case might be worth, how the value is determined, and how a Baltimore workers’ comp lawyer can help you avoid common pitfalls such as lowball offers and disputed claims. We will also explain how Maryland law (Md. Code, Labor and Employment § 9-602) governs your eligibility, benefits, and rights, ensuring that every detail is based on verified legal standards.

What Compensation Can You Receive Under Maryland Workers’ Comp Law?

When pursuing a workers’ compensation claim in Maryland, it is essential to understand the categories of benefits that may apply to your case. The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act outlines several types of compensation that injured employees may receive depending on the nature, severity, and long-term impact of the injury.

Below is a breakdown of the primary types of benefits that influence how much your Maryland workers’ comp case is worth:

Medical Expenses

Covers all reasonable and necessary medical care related to the workplace injury. This includes hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescriptions, and mileage reimbursement for medical appointments. Treatment must be authorized by the employer’s insurance or approved by the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC).

Temporary Total Disability (TTD)

Paid when an injured worker is entirely unable to work for a period of time. Compensation is typically two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage (AWW) and is subject to a statutory cap set annually by the Maryland WCC.

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD)

Applies when an injured worker can return to work but in a limited capacity or with reduced hours. Benefits cover the difference between pre-injury and post-injury earnings, providing financial support during the recovery period.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)

Awarded when an injury results in permanent but not total disability. Compensation is based on the degree of impairment and the affected body part, calculated using a statutory formula. For example, loss of function in a hand or back may qualify for PPD benefits under a set schedule of weeks.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD)

For cases where the injury results in the inability to ever return to gainful employment. This entitles the injured worker to lifetime benefits at two-thirds of their AWW, subject to Maryland’s maximum compensation rates.

Vocational Rehabilitation

Covers costs for job retraining, educational programs, and job placement services. This benefit is available when the injured worker is unable to return to their previous job due to permanent restrictions, allowing for long-term economic recovery through reemployment.

Death and Dependency Benefits

Paid to surviving dependents when a worker dies due to a compensable injury or occupational illness. Benefits may include funeral expenses and ongoing financial support to a surviving spouse or minor children, following Maryland WCC guidelines.

Important Note on Maximum Benefit Caps

For 2025, the maximum compensation rate for total disability is adjusted annually by the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. These statutory caps have a direct impact on how much your workers’ compensation case is worth in Maryland, especially for individuals with higher earnings.

Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law ensure every client’s compensation reflects current laws and entitlements.

Key Factors That Influence the Value of Your Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claim

No two workers’ compensation cases in Maryland are precisely alike. Even when two individuals suffer similar injuries, the final settlement amount can differ significantly based on several critical variables.

Understanding these factors is essential to determining how much your workers’ comp case is worth in Maryland and whether an offer from the insurance company reflects the actual value of your claim.

Severity and Type of Injury

The extent of your injury plays a central role in the value of your Maryland workers’ compensation settlement. A minor sprain may result in only medical coverage and a brief period of temporary disability, while a serious back injury, traumatic brain injury, or permanent loss of function in a limb may qualify for permanent partial or permanent total disability benefits.

Average Weekly Wage (AWW)

Your average weekly wage is the foundation for calculating your workers’ comp benefits. Maryland law allows you to receive two-thirds of your AWW, up to a statutory maximum. A higher AWW means a higher benefit payout. If the AWW is miscalculated or based on incomplete records, it can significantly reduce your compensation.

Degree of Permanent Impairment

If your injury results in lasting damage, your case may qualify for permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD). Maryland uses a statutory schedule to calculate how many weeks of compensation you are entitled to based on the affected body part and severity of the impairment.

Ability to Return to Work

Your work restrictions—whether temporary or permanent—directly influence your case value. If you are unable to return to your pre-injury job or any job at all, your benefits may extend further or increase. Insurance companies often challenge these restrictions, making proper documentation and legal advocacy essential.

Need for Vocational Rehabilitation

If you are unable to resume your previous job duties, Maryland workers’ compensation law may entitle you to vocational rehabilitation, including retraining and job placement services. The need for these services—and how well they are executed—can impact the long-term value of your claim.

Insurance Company Behavior and Negotiation Tactics

Some insurers may offer lowball settlements early in the process or dispute the work-related nature of your injury. Others may rely on Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) to suggest you have recovered sooner than your treating physician indicates.

These tactics can significantly undervalue your case if you do not have an experienced workers’ comp lawyer in Baltimore advocating on your behalf.

Quality of Legal Representation

Perhaps the most overlooked—but essential—factor in determining your Maryland workers’ compensation claim value is the strength of your legal representation. At Holzman & Dickriede, we understand how to present compelling medical evidence, leverage vocational evaluations, and negotiate with insurers to pursue the full benefits allowed under Maryland law.

Our team is relentless in ensuring that our clients are not manipulated by the system or left with inadequate settlements.

A recent client who sustained a permanent back injury after a fall at a construction site stated, “Ryan Dickriede and his team fought for every benefit I was owed. The insurance company offered me less than half of what I ultimately received. Without their help, I would have accepted far less than I deserved.”

Average Workers’ Compensation Settlements in Maryland: What Injured Workers Receive

While every claim is unique, understanding the typical range of Maryland workers’ compensation settlements can provide helpful context. These figures are not promises or guarantees, but they can serve as a useful benchmark when evaluating whether your case is being fairly valued.

According to data from the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) and insights from settlement trends handled by experienced attorneys, the average workers’ comp payout in Maryland generally depends on the type of injury, the body part affected, the extent of medical treatment required, and the presence of any permanent disability.

Sample Settlement Ranges in Maryland

• Minor soft tissue injuries (e.g., sprains, strains): $5,000 – $15,000
• Back injuries with ongoing pain but no surgery: $15,000 – $50,000
• Injuries requiring surgery (e.g., shoulder, knee): $40,000 – $85,000
• Spinal injuries with permanent impairment: $75,000 – $150,000+
• Traumatic brain injuries or loss of limb function: $150,000 – $500,000+
• Permanent total disability cases: Often exceed $500,000 and may result in lifetime benefits

These are approximate ranges, not fixed values. Insurance companies often attempt to settle below these figures—particularly when claimants are unrepresented or unaware of how their average weekly wage, impairment rating, or vocational needs affect long-term compensation.

How Maryland’s Statutory Caps Affect Your Settlement

Maryland law limits weekly compensation amounts through caps that change annually. In 2025, the maximum compensation for total disability is based on the State Average Weekly Wage (SAWW) published by the WCC. These statutory limits can artificially reduce the payouts of high-wage earners, even if the injury prevents them from working entirely.

An experienced workers’ comp lawyer in Baltimore, like those at Holzman & Dickriede, ensures that your AWW is calculated correctly and that your case is supported with strong medical and legal documentation. When you are dealing with insurance carriers who prioritize profits, having accurate, data-backed evidence can make the difference between a minimum settlement and one that reflects the actual cost of your injury.

Common Ways Insurance Companies Undervalue Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claims

Even when you meet all the legal requirements for benefits, insurance companies often employ tactics to reduce the value of your Maryland workers’ compensation case. These tactics are designed to protect their bottom line, not your recovery. Knowing what to expect can help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure you receive the full compensation to which you are legally entitled.

Lowball Settlement Offers Early in the Process

One of the most common strategies is offering a quick settlement shortly after your injury, before the full extent of your medical condition is known. While the offer may seem appealing during a stressful time, it often reflects only a fraction of the actual value of your workers’ comp claim. Accepting it can waive your right to future benefits, including medical treatment or compensation for permanent impairment.

Disputing the Work-Related Nature of the Injury

Insurers may argue that your injury did not happen at work or is related to a pre-existing condition. They may claim there were no witnesses, that you failed to report the injury on time, or that your medical records do not support a work-related cause. These disputes can delay your claim or lead to a denial—unless your case is documented thoroughly and supported by an experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney.

Relying on Independent Medical Exams (IMEs)

Insurance companies often schedule Independent Medical Exams to challenge the opinion of your treating physician. While these exams are supposed to be neutral, the physicians conducting IMEs are frequently hired by insurance carriers and may minimize your condition or claim you are fit to return to work. This tactic can result in reduced benefit payments or early termination of benefits.

Misclassifying Your Injury or Disability Level

By misclassifying your injury—for example, labeling a permanent injury as temporary—insurance adjusters can significantly reduce your payout. They may also underestimate your permanent partial disability (PPD) rating or argue that your vocational rehabilitation needs are unnecessary, which limits the long-term value of your case.

Delaying Treatment Authorization

Insurers may stall or refuse to approve necessary medical treatment, hoping that you will return to work early or abandon your claim. These delays can jeopardize your recovery and weaken your case if treatment gaps are used as evidence that your condition has improved.

At Holzman & Dickriede, we see these strategies every day. Our legal team knows how to effectively challenge insurance company tactics using detailed medical records, strong legal arguments, and a deep understanding of Maryland’s workers’ compensation laws. Attorney Ryan Dickriede brings a litigation-forward approach to every case, ensuring that insurers know they are facing a law firm prepared to go the distance.

When and Why You Should Consider a Lump Sum Workers’ Compensation Settlement in Maryland

A lump sum settlement is an attractive option for many injured workers. It offers immediate financial relief, ends the uncertainty of ongoing payments, and can provide a sense of closure. However, accepting a lump sum workers’ compensation settlement in Maryland is a serious decision with long-term consequences. Understanding when it is appropriate—and when it is not—is essential to protecting your future.

What Is a Lump Sum Settlement?

In Maryland, a lump sum settlement—also known as a compromise and settlement agreement—resolves your claim for a one-time payment rather than continued weekly benefits. In many cases, the settlement also includes payment for future medical care, vocational rehabilitation, or compensation for permanent partial disability (PPD) or permanent total disability (PTD).

Under Maryland law, all settlements must be approved by the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission to ensure fairness and compliance with legal requirements. Once approved, the settlement typically closes your claim permanently. You generally cannot request additional benefits for that injury later.

When a Lump Sum May Be a Smart Option

• You have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), and your condition is stable.
• You want to avoid litigation or a prolonged appeals process.
• You need immediate funds to cover debts, relocation, or career transitio.n
• Your doctors agree that no significant future medical treatment is necessary.
• You have consulted a workers’ compensation attorney who has thoroughly evaluated your claim value.

Risks to Consider Before Accepting a Lump Sum

• You may waive your right to future medical care, even if complications arise.
• You may underestimate the long-term cost of disability or wage loss.
• If the insurer undervalues the settlement, you could be left undercompensated.
• Insurance carriers often push for settlements that benefit them, not you.

Why Legal Guidance Is Critical

At Holzman & Dickriede, we carefully analyze every aspect of a client’s claim before advising on a lump sum settlement. Attorney Ryan Dickriede has helped numerous Baltimore workers understand their options and avoid unfair settlements that would have left them vulnerable. He negotiates from a position of strength, armed with medical evidence, wage data, and deep knowledge of Maryland’s compensation laws.

The Role of a Maryland Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Maximizing Your Settlement

While it is technically possible to handle a workers’ compensation claim on your own, doing so can leave you vulnerable to undervaluation, delayed treatment, or outright denial. Partnering with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer in Baltimore ensures your rights are protected, your injuries are fully documented, and the full value of your case is pursued under Maryland law.

Accurate Calculation of Your Average Weekly Wage (AWW)

Your AWW is the cornerstone of how benefits like temporary total disability (TTD) and permanent partial disability (PPD) are calculated. Insurance companies often use the lowest possible figures to reduce payouts. A knowledgeable attorney ensures your wage history is correctly calculated, including bonuses, overtime, or second jobs when applicable.

Building Strong Medical Evidence

Medical documentation is critical in proving the severity and impact of your injury. Your attorney will work with your treating physician to secure comprehensive reports and, if necessary, consult with independent specialists. This ensures that your permanent impairment rating, need for future treatment, and work restrictions are fully supported.

Challenging Insurance Company Tactics

As discussed in previous sections, insurers frequently attempt to undervalue claims using strategies like lowball settlements, biased Independent Medical Exams (IMEs), and delayed approvals. A skilled attorney like Ryan Dickriede knows how to challenge these tactics through strategic negotiation or litigation before the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Negotiating Full and Fair Settlements

Most Maryland workers’ compensation claims resolve through settlement negotiations. Having a legal advocate means you are not walking into that conversation alone. Ryan Dickriede brings years of experience handling complex claims involving serious injury, permanent disability, and vocational loss. He understands how to present evidence, calculate long-term damages, and push back against offers that do not reflect the true value of your injury.

Managing Appeals and Hearings

If your claim is denied or disputed, your attorney can request a hearing before the Commission, submit legal arguments, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence. Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law have a strong track record of representing injured workers throughout these proceedings with professionalism and precision.

From filing the initial paperwork to negotiating a final settlement, your attorney’s role is to ensure every possible benefit is pursued and that you are treated fairly under Maryland workers’ compensation law.

FAQs About Workers’ Compensation Case Value in Maryland

Injured workers across Maryland often have similar questions when it comes to evaluating their workers’ compensation claims. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions, based on our experience helping clients throughout Baltimore and the surrounding areas.

What is the average workers’ compensation payout in Maryland?

There is no true “average” that applies to all cases because settlement amounts vary widely based on injury severity, wage history, and disability classification. However, typical settlements can range from $5,000 for minor injuries to $150,000 or more for serious permanent impairments. Catastrophic cases can result in lifetime benefits.

What is the maximum payout for a workers’ comp case in Maryland?

Maryland law sets a maximum weekly compensation rate, which is updated each year by the Workers’ Compensation Commission. For 2025, this rate is based on the State Average Weekly Wage (SAWW). These caps may limit benefits for high-income earners, particularly in permanent total disability cases.

Can I negotiate a workers’ comp settlement on my own?

While you are allowed to negotiate directly with the insurance company, it is not recommended. Insurers have legal teams working to minimize payouts, and unrepresented workers often settle for far less than they deserve. A seasoned workers’ comp lawyer in Baltimore can accurately evaluate your case and fight for a fair settlement.

Will filing a claim get me fired?

Maryland law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who file legitimate workers’ compensation claims. If you are wrongfully terminated for pursuing benefits, you may have grounds for a retaliation or wrongful termination claim in addition to your workers’ comp case.

Can I sue my employer instead of filing for workers’ comp?

In most cases, workers’ compensation is your exclusive remedy, meaning you cannot sue your employer for a work-related injury. However, you may be able to file a third-party personal injury claim if someone other than your employer contributed to your injury—such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner.

How long does it take to receive a settlement?

Timelines vary based on the complexity of the injury, medical treatment progress, and whether the claim is disputed. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others involving permanent disability or litigation can take a year or longer. Holzman & Dickriede work to move cases forward efficiently while maximizing value.

Protect the Value of Your Maryland Workers’ Comp Claim

If you were injured on the job, the value of your workers’ compensation case is too important to leave to guesswork—or to the insurance company’s discretion. Your recovery, your future income, and your ability to live without financial strain depend on securing a settlement that truly reflects the impact of your injury.

At Holzman & Dickriede Attorneys at Law, we do more than file paperwork. We fight for our clients at every stage of the process—from accurately calculating your average weekly wage to challenging insurance company denials and undervalued offers. Attorney Ryan Dickriede uses his deep understanding of Maryland’s workers’ compensation system and years of litigation experience to make sure no benefit is missed and no right is overlooked.

You do not need to face the workers’ comp system alone. Whether your claim is just beginning, has been denied, or you are considering a settlement, we are here to help. Our legal team will provide an honest, thorough assessment of your case value and guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.

Call Holzman & Dickriede today for a free consultation and let us help you get the full compensation you deserve. We are proud to stand up for injured workers across Baltimore and Maryland—and we are ready to stand up for you.