How Long Does Workers’ Comp Last in Maryland?

The state of Maryland requires employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This covers employee medical expenses and lost wages due to job-related injuries or illnesses. How long does workers’ comp last in Maryland?

Here’s what you need to know about workers’ compensation timelines if you’re injured at work.

Basics of Maryland Workers’ Comp

To receive workers’ comp in Maryland, you must be injured while performing a job-related task or activity.

The injury must occur within the scope of your employment, not as a result of any careless or reckless behavior on your part.

Once you meet these criteria, you can begin the process of filing a claim with your employer’s insurance carrier.

Assuming the claim is accepted, you’ll receive a variety of benefits. This includes coverage for:

• Medical care
• Disability payments
• Vocational rehabilitation services

Generally speaking, most claims are paid on a biweekly basis. This occurs for up to 500 weeks from the date of the injury or until you reach maximum medical improvement.

In some cases, however, benefits may continue beyond 500 weeks. This is the case when there is evidence that the worker suffered permanent impairments or disabilities as a result of their injury. These are special cases and require additional review.

In addition to monetary benefits, injured employees may also be entitled to other forms of assistance. This includes job retraining services or modification to their work environment enabling them to return safely to their work after recovering from their injury.

Depending on the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to perform certain types of work tasks, you may also qualify for disability payments through Social Security or other government programs.

Do You Need to Speak to a Workers’ Compensation Attorney?

You likely have questions about workers’ compensation if you’ve been injured at work. Unfortunately, it might be difficult to get straight answers from your employer about the situation. A workers’ compensation attorney can help.

Injured employees need to understand their rights under workers’ compensation laws. This enables you to take advantage of all available resources so they can get back on their feet quickly and safely after suffering an occupational illness or injury.

Keep in mind, employees who work for qualifying employers have the right to workers’ compensation. If your employer denies you this benefit or tells you that you do not qualify, you have the right to seek legal support.

For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss your workplace injury or your eligibility for workers’ compensation coverage, contact Shugarman & Mehring at 410.783.4200 or toll-free at 888.342.7200.