With over 58,000 residents, Bowie is the largest municipality in Prince George’s County by population, as well as one of the biggest cities in Maryland. Over 70 percent of Bowie residents are engaged in the civilian labor force. Major employers located in Bowie include Giant Food, the Bowie Health Center, Inovalon, Macy's, Lowe's, and Prince George’s County Public Schools. A significant portion of employment in Bowie is concentrated in industries such as construction, health care, manufacturing, sales and retail, and emergency services. These employment sectors have historically seen some of the highest rates of job-related injuries and workers’ compensation claims. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our Bowie workers’ compensation lawyers can provide guidance after an on-the-job injury. If you have questions about whether your injury is covered by workers’ compensation insurance, or if you need assistance in filing a benefits claim, we can help.
Workers’ Compensation Laws in BowieThe Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act requires certain employers to carry insurance coverage for accidental personal injuries sustained by their employees. When a covered employee in Bowie suffers an injury that arises out of and in the course of their employment, or contracts an occupational disease that causes incapacitation of any kind, they may qualify for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation benefits are not dependent on the fault or negligence of either the employer or employee. However, in the event that an employee’s claim for benefits is denied, the employee may appeal.
It is important to note that the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Act provides the exclusive remedy for accidental injuries and occupational disease arising out of employment in Bowie. This means that if your injury is covered by workers’ compensation insurance, you generally cannot file a separate lawsuit against your employer for the same injury. A workers’ compensation lawyer in Bowie can explain all of your options after a job-related injury and assist you in claiming benefits.
Overview of BenefitsWorkers’ compensation typically includes medical benefits and partial payment of wages. These benefits are briefly explained below.
Temporary Total DisabilityIf a compensable injury prevents a covered employee from returning to work, the employee may receive temporary total disability payments during that period. In most cases, these payments equal two-thirds of the employee’s gross wages and are subject to maximum allowable amount by law.
Temporary Partial DisabilityWhen a covered employee has a compensable injury, but can perform only limited duties and limited wages, the employee is entitled to 50 percent of the difference between their gross average weekly wage and their average weekly wage while temporarily partially disabled.
Permanent Total DisabilityWhen an accidental injury results in permanent total disability, the compensation payment is two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage. Permanent total disabilities are serious injuries, such as the loss or loss of use of two limbs and/or eyes.
Permanent Partial DisabilityInjuries that are permanent, yet not serious enough to render an employee permanently totally disabled, are compensable for a set period of time. The amount of payment depends on a number of factors, which can be explained by a workers’ compensation attorney in Bowie.
Other BenefitsA covered employee may be compensated by getting treatment for a work-related injury, as well as payment for their hospital bills, medications, medical equipment, and prosthetics. A covered employee may also be entitled to vocational rehabilitation benefits if they can no longer perform the work for which they were previously qualified. These benefits may include vocational assessment, counseling, job placement and in some cases training.
Contact a Bowie Lawyer After a Work-Related InjuryIf you were injured as the result of a workplace accident or job conditions, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. At Foran & Foran, P.A., we understand that the navigating the claims process can be difficult as you cope with an injury. Our attorneys can handle the case on your behalf and seek the maximum amount of benefits you deserve. We represent people located in Bowie and many other areas of Prince George’s County. To schedule a free consultation with a Bowie workers’ compensation lawyer, call (301) 441-2022 or contact us online.