Workers’ compensation may extend to family after fatal accident

Many jobs have obvious dangers associated with them. Some of these dangers may be from performing the same actions over and over again. Some may be from dealing with chemicals or other substances as part of day-to-day job responsibilities. However, even jobs that may seem relatively safe may result in a fatal, unexpected workplace accident. If such an event occurs, the workers’ compensation benefits that Maryland employers are required to provide for their employees may extend to the employee’s surviving family members.

One family may be seeking these benefits after a workplace accident resulted in the death of their loved one. Reports indicate that the accident occurred at approximately 1 p.m. in early July. The man was working at Canam Steel.

Police were called to the scene after a spool of metal that the 38-year-old employee was apparently attempting to load came loose and fell on him. The man, unfortunately, died at the scene. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration will likely launch an investigation into the incident to determine if any health or safety standards were violated. If any violations are found, the company could receive a citation and a fine.

While the loss of a loved one will create grief and emotional turmoil, it can also create long-term financial problems. In addition to the loss of the man’s income and other work benefits, the family will also have to cope with funeral expenses. Fortunately for the family, they may qualify for workers’ compensation under Maryland state law. However, the laws and procedures for obtaining just compensation may be confusing, making additional assistance from those with experience with the process necessary to ensure fair treatment.

Source: wbaltv.com, “Spool of metal fatally crushes man“, Greg Ng, July 8, 2014