How Can I Get Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Maryland?
You probably know that if you get injured at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland. But do you know which types of injuries are covered or how you can ensure you get the benefits you deserve? If you have questions about getting compensation for your injuries, this article will answer some of them. For advice on your situation, reach out to a Baltimore, Maryland workers’ compensation lawyer.
In some states, any injury or illness which is job-related is covered. However, this isn’t the case in Maryland. To be compensable, an injury must:
- Result from an accident. According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act, an accident is a sudden, unusual and extraordinary event. It must create an unanticipated injury or illness. However, there are a few exceptions. For example, you can get compensation for a hernia even if it was caused by strain rather than an accident. Also, occupational diseases are compensable even though they aren’t typically caused by accidents.
- Arise out of the course of employment. You can only get compensation for injuries that result from a condition, obligation or incident of employment. Accidental injuries related to working conditions or performing job duties are considered to be arising out of employment.
- Arise in the course of employment. Your injury must occur at your usual workplace or another location where you’re required to perform job-related duties. It’s not always easy to prove that your actions directly related to your job. You may need an attorney to help you get the compensation you need.
Common Workers' Compensation Injuries and Illnesses
A wide variety of injuries and illnesses can occur on the job. You may slip and fall, get burned, get struck by a falling object or get hit by a car. Some industries like construction and manufacturing are more dangerous than others. However, accidental injuries can happen in any workplace. Meanwhile, occupational diseases are illnesses and ailments which may develop over time. To be compensable, they must result from workplace conditions to which the worker was exposed. The illness must prevent you from performing the duties which exposed you to the hazard. Common work-related illnesses are:- Repetitive stress injuries
- Hearing loss
- Asbestosis
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
What to Do When you Get Injured at Work
You need to take the appropriate steps following your diagnosis to protect your right to get compensation. As soon as you can, you must report the injury or illness to your employer and file a claim. You have one year to report an occupational illness to your employer and ten days to report an accidental injury. You must file your claim within seven years. The claim application form will ask for a wide range of information including:- The type of injury
- Where the accident occurred
- How the accident happened
- Whether your condition has long-term consequences