Cumberland Correctional Officers Injury Attorney
Correctional officers play a vital role in maintaining order and safety within Maryland’s correctional facilities, including FCI Cumberland, Western Correctional Institution, and the Allegany County Detention Center. However, the job often comes with significant risks. From physical altercations with inmates to hazardous working conditions, correctional officers face a high likelihood of workplace injuries. At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, our experienced Cumberland correctional officers injury attorneys are committed to helping correctional officers secure the benefits they deserve when injuries occur.
Common Injuries Among Correctional Officers
Correctional officers often work in demanding environments that put them at risk for many different types of injuries. Some of the most common injuries reported by correctional officers include:
- Physical Assaults: Inmate altercations can result in broken bones, head injuries, and lacerations.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries: Daily tasks, such as subduing inmates or prolonged standing, can lead to back pain and other chronic conditions.
- Slip-and-Fall Accidents: Correctional facilities often have slippery floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly lit areas, increasing the risk of falls.
- Exposure to Harmful Substances: Officers may encounter hazardous chemicals, biological materials, or infectious diseases in the line of duty.
- Mental Health Challenges: Constant stress, trauma from violent encounters, and long hours can result in occupational illnesses like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.
Workers’ Compensation for Correctional Officers in Maryland
Maryland law provides workers’ compensation benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, including correctional officers. These benefits can cover medical expenses, including hospital bills, medication, physical therapy, and other necessary treatments. Partial wage replacement for the time you are unable to work due to your injury is compensable, as is compensation for injuries resulting in permanent impairment. Maryland workers’ comp also offers vocational rehabilitation assistance in finding alternative employment if you cannot return to your previous duties.
Challenges Correctional Officers in Cumberland Face in Filing Claims
Despite the clear risks involved in correctional work, officers may encounter challenges when filing workers’ compensation claims. Common issues include:
- Denial of Claims: Employers or insurance carriers may argue that injuries were not work-related or are preexisting conditions.
- Retaliation: Some officers fear retaliation for filing a claim, including reassignment or other adverse actions.
- Underestimation of Injuries: Mental health conditions like PTSD may be dismissed as unrelated to work duties.
At Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP, we understand these challenges and will fight to protect your rights. Our team has extensive experience advocating for correctional officers stationed in Cumberland and throughout Maryland.
Why Choose Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP?
For decades, Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP has been dedicated to helping injured workers across Maryland. Our deep experience and record of success sets us apart from other workers’ compensation law firms in Maryland. We understand the unique demands and hazards faced by correctional officers, and our firm has recovered substantial benefits for injured workers statewide. Your case is our priority, and we provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your needs.
Whether you work at the Western Correctional Institution, the North Branch Correctional Institution, or another facility in Cumberland, our workers’ compensation lawyers are here to help. We are familiar with the complex Maryland workers’ compensation laws and the unique challenges faced by correctional officers in Allegany County.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured while working as a correctional officer in Cumberland, don’t take on the workers’ compensation system alone. Let Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP advocate for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing the benefits you deserve.