When an employee is killed on the job, it is very tragic. It affects not only the family of the deceased worker, but his or her coworkers, friends and community. Workers’ compensation death benefits are in place to help the family financially during this difficult time. However, there are certain requirements that must be met.
Because it can be very confusing to know what an eligible family member is entitled to when it comes to a loved one’s death benefits, it is advisable to have the experience and guidance of a workers’ compensation attorney on your side.
For example, the total amount of death benefit payments is dependent on many factors. These include:
— The deceased worker’s Average Weekly Wage
— The State Average Weekly Wage
— The deceased worker’s family income
— The number of dependents
The maximum benefit limit as of January 2016 is $69,177.00.
The death benefits from worker’s compensation in Maryland also include reimbursement for funeral expenses. In order to receive reimbursement, a form must be completed and sent to the Workers’ Compensation Commission.
The loss of a working family member can cause a financial hardship for the remaining members of the family. This is on top of the devastating grief the family is already dealing with. The death benefit is not meant to replace a life insurance payment; however, it will help with the family’s finances until they can learn how to live without their loved one’s full income.
As you can see, workers’ compensation death benefits are very complicated and the advice of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney can be very helpful.
Source: wcc.state.md.us, “Maryland Workers’ Compensation Rates,” accessed Dec. 22, 2016
