“Light Duty Work” In Maryland Workers’ Compensation Claims: What Happens When Job Duties Cross The Line?

Returning to light-duty work after on-the-job injuries in Maryland feels like progress. However, for many workers, the assignments waiting for them are more challenging than expected.

What happens when job duties cross the line? Our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains common activities that violate light-duty restrictions and how to protect your rights to benefits.

When a Light Duty Job Doesn’t Match Your Doctor’s Restrictions

Maryland law allows employers to offer “light duty work” to injured employees as part of the workers’ compensation process. Accepting a legitimate light-duty assignment can be a reasonable step toward recovery, but problems arise when the work exceeds your current capacity.

According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC), an employer’s light-duty offer must account for activity restrictions set by your treating physician. Signs that a light-duty assignment may not be legitimate include:

• The job requires lifting, standing, or performing tasks beyond what your doctor recommends.
• The position is in a different location that creates an undue hardship to reach.
• The hours or schedule conflict with ongoing medical appointments or treatment.
• The duties described in the offer do not match what you are asked to do on the job.

If any of these situations sound familiar, do not simply push through. Performing work beyond your restrictions can worsen your injury and jeopardize your Maryland workers’ compensation claim.

What Maryland Workers Can Do When a Light Duty Offer Is Not Appropriate

Being offered light-duty work while receiving workers’ compensation benefits can feel like a double-edged sword. Refusing an assignment outright can put your benefits at risk, but accepting one that exceeds your restrictions can be just as damaging.

Under the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act, your treating physician’s restrictions carry legal weight, and an employer cannot force you to perform work that violates them. Steps to take if your light-duty assignment does not match your restrictions include:

• Document everything, including the tasks you are asked to perform and how they compare to your medical restrictions.
• Notify your treating physician and ask for updated documentation of your limitations.
• Contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney before refusing the assignment or continuing to perform work outside your restrictions.
• File a claim with the WCC if your employer retaliates or attempts to cut off your benefits unfairly.
• Keep records of all communications with your employer and the insurance company regarding the assignment.

Having clear medical documentation and prompt legal guidance can make the difference between protecting your benefits and losing them.

To Protect Your Recovery, Contact Our Experienced Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

A light-duty assignment that pushes you beyond your limits is not just unfair. It can set back your recovery and put your entire workers’ compensation claim at risk.

At Berman, Sobin, Gross, Feldman & Darby LLP, we can review your situation, challenge inappropriate job assignments, and ensure your benefits are protected. If your light-duty work does not feel right, trust that instinct and get legal help. Contact our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney to request a consultation.

Sources:

wcc.state.md.us/

mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gle&section=9-627&enactments=false