Workers’ Compensation for Remote Employees in Maryland: How To Protect Your Rights To Benefits
Numerous Maryland residents worked from home due to shelter-in-place orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once these eased and businesses reopened, many continued to perform their jobs remotely. While there are definite advantages to not having to go to a job site, there are also potential risks.
On-the-job injuries can still happen to remote workers. While workers’ compensation benefits can be available to these workers, getting a claim approved often presents challenges. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains common types of remote worker injuries and how to protect your rights to benefits.
Common Injuries Among Remote Workers In Maryland
Remote employees have dominated the workforce in recent years. While some businesses are pushing for a return to the office, the U.S. Career Institute reports that nearly 40 percent of residents continue to work from home. While doing so provides obvious benefits, work-related injuries can still happen. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the most common remote work injuries include:
- Slip-and-fall accidents due to tripping over power cords, cluttered workspaces, and uneven flooring;
- Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome and chronic back pain due to poor posture and excessive typing;
- Neck and spine issues due to non-ergonomic workstations;
These and other remote worker injuries can leave you requiring ongoing medical attention while being unable to do your job. Fortunately, workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland can help cover your losses, but filing a claim often proves challenging when you work from home.
Protecting Your Rights To Maryland Workers’ Compensation Benefits As A Remote Employee
Maryland law mandates that most employers provide workers’ compensation coverage for employees injured while performing job-related duties, regardless of location. However, injuries must occur during scheduled work hours and while completing work-related tasks, which can be challenging to prove. The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) carefully assesses these claims on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.
Do not downplay the situation if you are injured while working at home. Take these steps to protect your health and your rights in a claim:
- Report any injuries immediately to your employer;
- Make sure they complete an accident report and request a copy;
- Document what happened via pictures, videos, and testimony from witnesses;
- Visit your doctor right away, explain that your injuries are work-related, and follow all of their instructions regarding treatment and work restrictions;
- Keep copies of relevant medical records and test results.
- Contact our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights and file a claim.
To Protect Your Rights In A Claim. Contact Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today
If you work from home and get injured on the job, you may be entitled to Maryland workers’ compensation benefits, which can help cover your medical bills, lost income, and other costs. However, proving these types of claims is difficult, and denials are common. To protect your legal rights, contact Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP.
Our experienced Maryland workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees navigate complex claims and secure the benefits they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Source:
https://www.uscareerinstitute.edu/blog/50-eye-opening-remote-work-statistics-for-2024
