Workers’ compensation in Maryland for fatal workplace injuries

Every day, thousands of Maryland men and women leave their homes to head to work. The job is oftentimes one that is repetitive, as it has become second nature to many. With one becoming complacent, the possibility of workplace injuries, especially in the construction field, can increase. When employees suffer injuries while performing work-related tasks, workers’ compensation is a benefit that many will utilize to help see their families through the financial challenges that will most likely follow from the inability to work due to the injury.

A 44-year-old female construction worker was leveling a field in another state when she was fatally injured. Reportedly, her co-worker was moving an 18-ton bulldozer to adjust its position when she was struck. The incident occurred on April 14, 2017 around 1 p.m.

The victim was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead. An autopsy later revealed blunt force trauma as the cause of death. The incident was reported to the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and no criminal activity or intent is believed to be a culprit.

Some workplace injuries require little more than a band aid, while others require days or weeks of rest and recuperation before one can return to work. Some on-the-job accidents are fatal and leave a family shattered, not only emotionally but financially as well. In the instance that a worker is fatally injured while on the job, the workers’ compensation will be awarded to a surviving spouse and any minor children. A knowledgeable Maryland attorney can assist families in the steps of filing workers’ compensation claims or appealing any denied claims.

Source: poughkeepsiejournal.com, “Susan Coons of Elizaville struck, killed by bulldozer“, Jack Howland, April 14, 2017