Which of the Following is Not Covered Under Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is designed to protect employees who get injured on the job. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. However, not every injury or illness qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits. Knowing what isn’t covered can help you understand the limitations and ensure compliance with Maryland’s laws.

Injuries Outside Work

Workers’ compensation doesn’t cover injuries that occur outside the workplace. If you get hurt during your personal time, at home, or while engaged in non-work-related activities, you won’t be eligible for benefits. The injury must happen while you are performing job-related duties.

Commuting Injuries

Injuries sustained while commuting to or from work typically aren’t covered. Maryland law excludes accidents that happen during your daily commute unless you’re on a work-related errand or traveling between job sites as part of your duties.

Self-Inflicted Injuries

Intentional self-inflicted injuries aren’t covered by workers’ compensation. If you deliberately harm yourself, whether due to personal issues or in an attempt to claim benefits, the insurance won’t cover medical expenses or lost wages.

Injuries from Horseplay or Intoxication

If you sustain an injury while engaging in horseplay or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you won’t receive workers’ compensation benefits. Maryland law requires that the injury must arise out of and in the course of employment, excluding reckless or intoxicated behavior.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Workers’ compensation doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions unless aggravated by a work-related activity. For example, if you have a chronic back problem and your job exacerbates it, you might receive coverage. However, the original condition must have been made worse by your job duties.

Stress-Related Claims

Maryland workers’ compensation generally doesn’t cover stress-related claims unless the stress results from a specific, identifiable work-related incident. General job stress or anxiety without a clear, direct cause related to your employment usually isn’t eligible for benefits.

Illnesses from Common Conditions

Workers’ compensation won’t cover common illnesses like colds or the flu. These illnesses aren’t considered work-related illnesses and are typically seen as everyday risks not tied to specific job duties.

Normal Wear and Tear

Injuries resulting from the normal wear and tear of the body aren’t covered. For instance, general aches, pains, or conditions arising from aging or non-work activities aren’t eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Injuries from Unauthorized Activities

If you get injured while performing tasks outside your job description or without your employer’s authorization, workers’ compensation won’t cover these injuries. Your duties must align with your job role, and any deviations can disqualify you from receiving benefits.

Criminal Activities

Injuries sustained while committing a crime aren’t covered. If you engage in illegal activities during work and get injured, you will not receive workers’ compensation benefits. This rule ensures that workers’ compensation supports only lawful, work-related activities.

Workers’ compensation provides essential protection for employees injured on the job, but it has clear limitations. In Maryland, some injuries are not covered. Understanding these exclusions helps employees and employers navigate the workers’ compensation system effectively.

For more information or to discuss your situation, contact Shugarman & Mehring at (410) 783-4200 or toll-free at (888) 342-7200.