Baltimore Workplace Injuries Outside of Workers’ Comp: When You Can File a Personal Injury Claim
When on-the-job injuries happen in Baltimore, workers’ compensation can help cover some of the costs. However, what many injured workers don’t realize is that it’s not always the only option, and in some cases it is not even the best one.
If a third party outside your employer is responsible for your injuries, you may be able to file a separate personal injury claim, which may entitle you to additional compensation. Our experienced Maryland personal injury lawyers outline situations where others may be liable and your rights to compensation.
When Third Parties Cause Baltimore Workplace Injuries
Benefits are available through the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) when on-the-job injuries happen. It covers medical expenses and lost income but limits the total amount injured workers can recover.
A third-party personal injury claim has no such limits, and it applies in more workplace situations than people often realize. Common scenarios where a third-party claim may be available include:
- Construction site accidents caused by a subcontractor or others not directly employed by the site owner or manager.
- Injuries caused by defective tools, machinery, or safety equipment.
- Delivery and transportation workers injured in work-related traffic accidents due to another driver’s negligence.
- Premises liability injuries, such as when a worker is hurt at a client’s property or job site due to hazardous conditions the property owner failed to address.
- Injuries caused by negligent security, where a third-party security contractor failed to maintain a safe environment for workers.
The Maryland Department of Labor reports that workers in construction, transportation, and healthcare are among the most at risk for on-the-job injuries, many of which involve third-party liability.
Baltimore Third-Party Work Injury Claims Versus Workers’ Compensation
Filing for workers’ compensation benefits may feel like the obvious path when on-the-job injuries happen in Baltimore. However, while filing a personal injury claim may require more effort, the advantages can more than make up for it. Key differences include:
- Maryland workers’ compensation benefits do not cover pain and suffering, but a third-party personal injury claim does.
- Workers’ comp covers up to two-thirds of your average wages, while a personal injury claim covers total lost income and potential future losses, including future income losses.
- A third-party claim can be filed simultaneously with a workers’ comp claim, meaning you don’t have to choose between the two.
If you believe a third party contributed to on-the-job injuries in Baltimore, don’t wait. Get professional legal help today.
Consult Our Experienced Baltimore Personal Injury Lawyers
Workers’ compensation can provide basic protection when on-the-job injuries in Baltimore happen. However, when a third party is involved, a personal injury claim can help you get the full amount you deserve.
At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we provide the trusted, experienced legal representation you need to make the best possible recovery. To talk to our Maryland personal injury lawyers, contact us today and request a consultation.
Sources:
labor.maryland.gov/labor/research/research2020.shtml
dls.maryland.gov/pubs/prod/CourtCrimCivil/Negligence-Systems.pdf
