Work-Related Car Accidents in Maryland: Your Options For Filing A Claim

Workers’ compensation acts as a safety net, protecting you when injuries happen on the job site. However, what happens if you are in a car crash while working? Are you still covered?

Car accidents are one of the most common causes of serious workplace injuries in Maryland. Our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains options that can help cover your losses.

When a Car Accident Qualifies For Workers’ Compensation in Maryland

Workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland cover employees who are injured on the job. That includes those that happen during work-related car accidents.

According to the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC), workers injured in vehicle accidents may be entitled to benefits when the accident occurs during work-related travel. Situations where a crash or collision may qualify as a workers’ compensation claim include:

• Driving between job sites, client locations, or work appointments during the workday.
• Making deliveries, pickups, or running work-related errands on behalf of your employer.
• Traveling in a company-owned or employer-provided vehicle for any work-related purpose.
• Commuting to a temporary or off-site work location that differs from your regular place of employment.
• Participating in work-related travel, such as attending a conference, training, or off-site meeting.

Standard commutes to and from a regular workplace are generally not covered. If you are unsure whether your accident qualifies, the first step is to get professional legal help.

How a Third-Party Claim Can Significantly Increase Your Recovery

Maryland workers’ compensation provides important benefits after a job-related car accident, but it does not cover everything. Payments are limited to medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and long-term disabilities.

When another driver caused the accident, filing a separate personal injury claim can help cover your total losses. Here’s what you need to know about the process and your legal rights:

• You can pursue Maryland workers’ compensation benefits and a personal injury lawsuit at the same time.
• You can seek payment for pain and suffering and other costs not covered by workers’ comp through a third-party claim.
• Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer may try to recover payment from any third-party settlement you receive.
• Strict statutes of limitations apply in these cases, so act quickly to protect your rights to compensation.

Navigating two different claims is rarely easy, but the payoff can be significant. To protect yourself and your recovery in these cases, work with an attorney experienced in workers’ compensation and personal injury law.

To Find Out How Much Your Claim Is Worth, Contact Our Experienced Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Work-related car accidents in Maryland can cause devastating injuries. When others are at fault, seeking compensation through a personal injury and workers’ comp can help you get the full amount needed to cover your losses.

At Berman, Sobin, Gross, Feldman & Darby LLP, our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorney can evaluate the situation, explain your options, and coordinate filing both types of claims. To find out how much your case is worth, contact our office and request a consultation today.

Source:

mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Laws/StatuteText?article=gle&section=9-101&enactments=false