When you suffer permanent total disability in Maryland due to work-related injuries, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In Maryland, permanent total disability is valid when you can no longer perform any work due to the injury. It is essential to understand your rights and obligations when seeking permanent total disability benefits in Maryland. Here are five things to know about permanent total disability in Maryland when claiming workers’ compensation benefits.
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1. The Coverage Provides Medical Benefits and Partial Wage Loss
When claiming workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland, individuals who have sustained a permanent total disability may be eligible to receive a wide range of benefits. These include medical care and financial payments for partial wage loss. When an individual suffers a permanent total disability, they may be eligible to receive medical care for the rest of their life. That includes coverage for hospital visits, physical therapy, and medications.
Additionally, they may be eligible to receive other forms of treatment, such as prosthetic devices or wheelchairs. Also, you may be eligible to receive financial payments for partial wage loss. These payments will help to replace part of the income that an individual can no longer earn due to their permanent disability. The payment amount depends on the injury’s severity and the individual’s average weekly wages before their injury. Hiring a skilled Waldorf Permanent Total Disability Attorney will ensure you receive maximum compensation benefits for your work-related injuries.
Maryland Workers’ Compensation Presumes Permanent Disability Injuries
Workers’ compensation laws in Maryland take a design that aims to provide financial relief for individuals who sustain job-related permanent total injuries. In Maryland, the workers’ compensation commission presumes some injuries cause permanent disability if they occur while working on the job. For example, loss of both hands and legs and amputation of an arm or leg will be considered a permanent and total disability. Similarly, spinal cord injury or severe burns may also be assumed as such by the commission.
Besides physical impairments, mental impairments are also part of the permanent disability assessment criteria. In some instances, the commission considers cognitive impairments, such as traumatic brain injury, under the same category. It is important to note that a qualified medical professional must evaluate an individual’s impairments, must assess the ability to return to work before determining permanent disability. With the help of legal guidance and necessary documentation, injured workers can often be awarded benefits for their disability.
2. Upon Approval, You Will Receive a Part of Your Pre-Accident Weekly Wages
When approved for permanent total disability benefits in Maryland, you will receive a portion of your pre-accident weekly wages. The amount you receive depends on your average weekly wage before your accident. Generally, you will receive two-thirds of the difference between your pre-accident and post-accident wages, up to the maximum benefit rate set by the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission.
In addition, you may also be eligible to receive additional benefits depending on your circumstances. These benefits include medical care and treatment, vocational rehabilitation services, and other necessary expenses. However, it’s crucial to consult a qualified workers’ compensation attorney to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit you are entitled to under the law. An experienced attorney can help explain the legal requirements for your particular case and advise you on the best course of action.
3. You Need to Meet Certain Conditions to Qualify for PTD
To qualify for permanent total disability (PTD) payments in Maryland, you must meet specific criteria. It is crucial to prove that your injury or illness is disabling, which prevents you from engaging in any gainful employment, either within your previous job or any other job.
Also, your medical care should be under a medical professional for treatment and medication. Your doctor should be able to provide a comprehensive and conclusive medical report on your state of health. A medical report on maximum medical improvement by your doctor will help evaluate whether you’re presumed permanently disabled or whether other conditions qualify you as permanently disabled.
4. Your Injuries are Not a Guarantee for Compensation
You must file a persuasive and compelling claim to receive maximum compensation for your injuries. However, to achieve this, you must work closely with your doctor to help you prove the extent of your injuries. On the other hand, an experienced workers’ compensation attorney will help you compile medical evidence adequate to prove your claims. Pursuing your compensation without legal and professional help may risk your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
If you suffer permanent total disability due to work-related injuries in Maryland, it’s vital to understand rights, obligations, and options for filing a claim and getting workers’ compensation benefits. However, with so many variables, you must work closely with an experienced physician and speak with a qualified and experienced workers’ compensation attorney to address your unique claim and increase your chances of receiving the maximum compensation for your injuries.
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