When you sustain an on-the-job injury, trying to proceed can be overwhelming and confusing. Not only do you have your physical health to worry about, but you may fear that your job is on the line. It’s important to understand that, in most circumstances, the law is on your side. The following blog explores what you should know about these circumstances and why you must connect with Baltimore County workplace accident attorneys to ensure your rights are protected during these challenging times.
What Are My Rights as An Employee After an On-the-Job Injury?
When you suffer an injury while working, it’s imperative to understand that, under Maryland law, you have the right to workers’ compensation. This is true regardless of who caused your injury. Unlike other kinds of personal injuries, you do not need to prove that your employer’s negligence was the cause of your accident. Instead, you just need to prove that you were injured while within the scope of your duties. However, by filing a workers’ compensation claim, you are relinquishing your right to sue your employer for damages.
You are also within your right to seek compensation for work-related illnesses suffered. When many people think of workers’ compensation, they assume it only covers injuries. However, if you are consistently exposed to harmful substances or other triggers that can cause you to suffer an illness, you are eligible to receive compensation for medical bills and partially lost wages.
It is essential to understand, however, that there are circumstances in which you are not eligible to recover compensation through your employer for an injury or illness sustained on the job. Generally, if you are acting outside of the scope of your duties, working while under the influence, engaged in “horseplay,” or otherwise violating safety rules at work, you can be barred from collecting workers’ compensation.
What Should I Do if My Employer Tries to Rebute Workers’ Compensation?
In some instances, an employer may try to counter, deny, or minimize your workers’ compensation claim to avoid liability. If this is the case, you must know that you are well within your rights as an employee to elevate the matter. As such, you can request a hearing with the Workers’ Compensation Commission, which will examine the facts surrounding your case to determine whether or not your claim is valid.
Additionally, you are within your rights to have a lawyer represent you from the minute you sustain your injury. Many assume they will be treated fairly by their employer, which is far from the truth. In reality, many workers are taken advantage of by their companies, leaving them struggling to make ends meet without income and drowning in medical bills. As such, connecting with an experienced attorney to help ensure your rights are protected during the workers’ compensation process is critical.
When you are hurt, the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi is ready to help fight for the compensation you deserve. Connect with our dedicated legal team today to learn how we can assist you through these complex matters.
