Workers’ compensation insurance is a compulsory insurance policy employers in Maryland must provide for their employees. MD workers’ comp insurance cover is put in place to protect workers who may suffer injuries or illnesses in their line of work.
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Types of Injuries and Illnesses Covered by Workers’ Comp Insurance
The following are types of injuries and illnesses covered by MD workers’ comp insurance in Maryland:
Physical injuries: Injuries that may include broken bones, sprains, cuts, bruises, and strains that occur due to work-related accidents.
Mental health conditions: Employees may suffer from mental health conditions such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder due to their job duties.
Occupational diseases: Workers’ compensation insurance covers employees who may develop illnesses such as lung diseases, sight and hearing impairment, and carpal tunnel syndrome, among other conditions, due to work-related duties.
Repetitive stress injuries: Employees who develop injuries due to repetitive motions or responsibilities such as using machinery or typing. Although such damages or illnesses may sometimes be challenging to prove as work-related, they may be eligible for insurance coverage benefits.
It is imperative to note that workers’ compensation insurance does not cover all injuries in Maryland. For instance, if an employee is injured at work while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they may not be qualified for insurance coverage benefits.
Procedure for obtaining Workers’ Comp Insurance in Maryland after an Injury
Regardless of the work-related illness and injury you suffer while at work, the process of seeking workers’ comp insurance is the same. Below are the steps you should follow to obtain MD workers’ comp insurance after an injury:
Seek medical attention: The first step should be seeking medical attention since health, and your well-being comes first. Inform the health care provider that injuries obtained are work-related. It is vital to understand the rights of workers` comp insurance.
Notify the employer: Let the employer know of the injury or illness as soon as possible. It is best to provide a detailed written notice, a letter, or an email indicating the details of the injury–when, where, and how it happened and the circumstances surrounding it. The employer must provide the employee with information on how to file a workers` compensation claim.
File a claim with the workers’ compensation commission: In Maryland, you must file your claim online or by email within two years from the date of the injury.
Provide supporting documents: You need to provide supporting documentation such as medical reports, accident records, and witness statements. Ensure that you keep all copies of documents related to the injuries and claim.
Attend required appointments: Attend all meetings set by the employer and corporate and provide any necessary information about the work-related injury.
Wait for a final decision: The workers’ compensation insurance commission will review your claims and decide whether or not to approve your claims for benefits. You may receive compensation as disability benefits, medical treatment, or wage replacement benefits.
Summary
Workers’ compensation insurance in Maryland covers a variety of illnesses and injuries that might occur while performing work-related duties. Whether physical, mental or any other illness, you are eligible for the insurance coverage benefits as long as it is work-related.
