Workplace injuries and the Maryland workers’ compensation program

Many Maryland residents head to work at some point during the day to provide a service for the community and to put food on their own tables at home. When heading off to their place of employment, many do not think about the possibility of falling victim to workplace injuries. Regardless of the task performed, the risk is present, as two landscapers recently became victims of electrical shock.

The two landscapers were performing services in a neighborhood in another state when one of them came across a primary high-voltage power line. One worker was holding a ladder at the base while the other cleared away some brush. The landscaper who encountered the line was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

The second landscaper who was holding the ladder received a strong indirect shock. The second victim was taken to another local hospital and is currently under care. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration continues to investigate the incident.

Performing any duties associated with employment can create risks for workplace injuries. Should an employee be injured while on the job, the Maryland workers’ compensation program provides benefits to help cover the financial gap that the inability to work can create. For those who lose their life while on the job, the workers’ compensation insurance program provides survivors benefits to spouses and minor dependent children. With the aid of a skilled attorney, employees and/or families can secure guidance in the claims process and assistance in pursuing an appeal, should their initial claim be denied.

Source: palmbeachpost.com, “BREAKING: Power line kills one landscaper, hurts another in Palm”, Eliot Klineberg, Aug. 15, 2017