Correctional Officers Worker’s Comp
Correctional officers are also entitled to a presumption of law related to certain health conditions, and as of October 1, 2018, are now considered “Public Safety” pursuant to Baltimore Workers’ Compensation benefits. This provides the enhanced benefits previously only provided to police officers, firefighters and EMTs.
Limited Presumption for Heart Disease and Hypertension
Correctional officers have a limited presumption of law for heart disease and hypertension (high blood pressure). The correctional officer must be employed by Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, or Prince George’s County to qualify for the presumption of an occupational illness.
In addition, a correctional officer in one of these counties is only presumed to have an occupational illness for heart disease or hypertension if they meet all the following criteria:
- The correctional officer is diagnosed with heart disease or hypertension;
- The condition causes a partial or total disability;
- The condition is more severe now than it was before the individual became employed with the department or agency; and,
- The officer submitted to a medical examination as a condition of his or her employment to determine the extent of the heart disease or hypertension before employment.
Only if all four of the above criteria are met will the Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) allow the presumption of an occupational disease for high blood pressure or heart disease.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
Even though you may meet all four criteria, a presumption of law is not a guarantee that you will receive workers’ compensation benefits. It simply places the burden of proving that your heart disease or high blood pressure is not an occupational illness on the workers’ compensation insurance carrier. You may still face an uphill battle to receive workers’ comp benefits if you are unable to work because of your health condition.
An experienced Pinder Plotkin workers’ compensation attorney can help you file your claim and fight for the workers’ comp benefits you deserve. Call 888-844-5373 to schedule afree consultation with a member of our legal team.
FAQs
As a trusted personal injury law firm, we are committed to offering extensive educational resources and addressing frequently asked questions to support and empower our clients throughout their legal journey.
What is the "heart and lung presumption," and how does it help my case?
This Maryland law presumes that heart disease or hypertension developed during your service is job-related. Our firm uses this powerful legal advantage to build a stronger claim for you, shifting the burden of proof to the insurance company.
What if my workers' comp claim for a heart condition is denied?
Insurers often fight these claims. Our role is to aggressively counter their denials by using the legal presumption and medical evidence to prove your condition is work-related and secure the benefits you are lawfully owed.
What specific benefits can you help me obtain?
We fight to ensure you receive all the compensation you're entitled to, including full coverage for your medical treatments, payment for lost wages, and financial awards for any permanent disability caused by your occupational illness.
Why do I need a lawyer with experience in public safety claims?
Claims for correctional officers involve special laws and presumptions that don't apply to other workers. Our specific experience in this area is critical to navigating the system and maximizing the unique benefits available to you.
How do I get started with my workers' compensation claim?
The first step is a free, no-obligation consultation with our team. We will evaluate your case, explain your rights as a correctional officer, and outline the best strategy to move forward with your claim.
Contact a Baltimore Personal Injury Lawyer for your Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, understanding your rights is crucial. Contact Pinder Plotkin today for a free consultation and let our experienced Baltimore personal injury attorneys fight for the compensation you deserve.