What is legally considered a serious injury in the context of car accidents in Maryland?
Maryland Workers’ Compensation for Car Accident Injuries
Maryland’s workers’ compensation system is designed to provide financial and medical benefits to employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses. When a car accident occurs during employment, workers may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
The Serious Injury Threshold
To qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, an injured employee must meet the serious injury threshold. Maryland law categorizes injuries into two main types: specific injuries and occupational diseases. For car accident injuries, we are primarily concerned with specific injuries.
Specific Injuries
Specific injuries refer to injuries resulting from a specific event or accident. In the context of car accidents during work-related activities, specific injuries might include fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, or injuries requiring surgery.
Serious Injury Criteria
Maryland’s workers’ compensation laws do not explicitly define what constitutes a serious injury. However, the severity of the injury and its impact on the individual’s ability to work and perform daily activities are essential factors. Generally, an injury is considered serious if it results in a substantial impairment of a bodily function or a permanent disability.
Examples of Serious Injuries in Car Accidents
Fractures
Fractures, especially those requiring surgery or extensive rehabilitation, are often considered serious injuries. The severity of the fracture, its impact on mobility, and the potential for long-term impairment are crucial considerations.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
TBIs resulting from a car accident can range from mild to severe. Even mild TBIs can have lasting effects on cognitive function, and severe TBIs may lead to permanent disabilities.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Injuries to the spinal cord can result in long-term disabilities, affecting mobility and overall quality of life. The seriousness of these injuries depends on the extent of damage to the spinal cord.
Severe Burns
Burns, especially those requiring extensive medical treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitation, are serious. The impact on appearance, function, and psychological well-being is taken into account.
Seeking Workers’ Compensation for Serious Injuries
If you have sustained a serious injury in a car accident while on the job, it’s crucial to take certain steps to ensure you receive the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve:
Prompt Reporting
Report the car accident and your injuries to your employer as soon as possible. Prompt reporting is essential for initiating the workers’ compensation claims process.
Medical Documentation
Seek immediate medical attention, and ensure that all your injuries are thoroughly documented by healthcare professionals. This documentation will be crucial in establishing the severity of your injuries.
Legal Assistance
Consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to navigate the complexities of the claims process. An attorney can help you gather evidence, understand your rights, and advocate for compensation.
Navigating the legal landscape surrounding serious injuries in car accidents under Maryland workers’ compensation laws requires a nuanced understanding of the criteria for severity and their impact on an individual’s life. If you find yourself facing the aftermath of a serious car accident injury while on the job, seeking legal guidance is crucial. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you build a strong case, ensuring that you receive the necessary benefits to aid in your recovery and maintain financial stability during a challenging time.
If you’re in Baltimore, MD or the surrounding area, Shugarman & Mehring is available to discuss your unique situation. To speak to someone about your injuries or your Workers’ Compensation claim, contact Shugarman & Mehring at (410) 783-4200 or toll-free at (888) 342-7200.
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