Many Maryland workers spend part of their day behind the wheel. Maybe you’re making deliveries. Maybe you’re driving between job sites. Maybe your employer asked you to run an errand, visit a customer, or attend a meeting.
Then there is a crash.
Now you’re injured, your vehicle may be damaged, you’re missing work, and you’re wondering who is going to pay for everything. The answer may be more complicated—and more favorable—than you think.
Workers’ Compensation May Apply Even If the Accident Was Your Fault
One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that workers’ compensation only applies if someone else caused the crash. That is simply not true. If you were performing work duties when the accident occurred, Maryland workers’ compensation benefits may be available regardless of who caused the collision. In many cases, workers’ compensation can provide:
- Medical treatment related to your injuries
- Temporary disability benefits while a doctor says you're unable to work
- Compensation for permanent injuries when appropriate
Unlike a personal injury claim, proving fault is often not the central issue. The focus is whether the accident happened in the course of your employment.
You May Also Have a Claim Against the Other Driver
Here’s where many injured workers leave money on the table. If another driver caused the crash, you may have a workers’ compensation claim and a
personal injury claim at the same time. Workers’ compensation and auto insurance serve different purposes.
Workers’ compensation may cover your medical treatment and a portion of your lost wages. A claim against the at-fault driver may allow you to recover damages that workers’ compensation does not cover, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Additional lost wages
- Property damage
- Other accident-related losses
Every case is different, but many injured workers are surprised to learn they may have multiple avenues of recovery available.
Common Examples of Work-Related Vehicle Accidents
Workers’ compensation claims frequently arise after accidents involving:
- Delivery drivers
- Construction workers traveling between sites
- Home health care providers
- Sales representatives
- Service technicians
- Utility workers
- Employees using personal vehicles for work purposes
You do not have to drive for a living to qualify. If you were performing job-related duties when the accident occurred, workers’ compensation benefits may be available.
Don’t Assume Auto Insurance Is Your Only Option
After a work-related car accident, many workers focus only on the insurance claim and never explore whether workers’ compensation benefits may apply. That mistake can be costly.
If you were injured while driving for work in Maryland, it is important to understand all of the benefits and claims that may be available. What seems like a simple car accident may actually involve both a workers’ compensation claim and a claim against the at-fault driver. The sooner you understand your rights, the better positioned you will be to protect them.
