Workers Compensation in Maine
An ordinary workday can take an unexpected turn with a workplace injury. The pain and uncertainty can leave you wondering, “How will I pay my bills? What happens next?” These are questions no one should face alone.
Maine’s workers’ compensation system exists to provide a lifeline for injured employees. With benefits covering medical care, lost wages, and rehabilitation services, it helps ease the financial strain so you can focus on recovery.
This guide outlines Maine’s workers’ compensation process, the steps you must take after an injury, and why having legal support can ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to.
Workers Compensation Statistics in Maine?
Workplace injuries are a reality for many Maine workers. In 2023, private-sector employers in the state reported approximately 11,200 nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses, translating to an incidence rate of 3.0 cases per 100 full-time employees—higher than the national average. (Source)
Some industries in Maine report more frequent injuries, including:
- Healthcare and Social Assistance: With a high rate of 4.5 cases per 100 workers, this industry sees injuries from patient handling and exposure to illnesses.
- Construction: Known for hazards like falls, equipment mishaps, and heavy lifting, with an incidence rate of 3.9 cases per 100 workers.
- Fishing and Forestry: Physically demanding and often dangerous, these industries face frequent injuries from equipment and environmental conditions.
How Does Workers Comp Work in Maine?
Maine’s workers’ compensation system provides medical and financial support to employees injured or made ill due to their job. To qualify, the injury or illness must result directly from your work duties or workplace conditions. For example, a back injury caused by lifting heavy objects or an illness due to toxic exposure would typically qualify.
Maine requires nearly all private and public-sector businesses to carry workers’ compensation insurance. The only exceptions to this are agricultural and aquacultural industries that hire seasonal workers.
The Maine Department of Business Services states that Maine has a no-fault system when it comes to governing workers’ compensation. This system entitles you to benefits for medical bills, lost wages, and permanent impairments incurred as a result of a job-related injury or illness.
Get Medical Attention
Prompt medical care is essential after a workplace injury. Delaying treatment can worsen your condition and make it more challenging to link the injury to your job—something critical for a workers’ compensation claim.
In Maine, your employer’s insurance carrier may require you to see a designated healthcare provider for your initial treatment. If you are unhappy with the care, you may have the right to seek a second opinion, but it must comply with state regulations.
Even if the injury seems minor, a thorough evaluation is crucial. Conditions like repetitive strain injuries or illnesses caused by workplace exposure can develop over time if left untreated.
Document all treatments, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments. These records will be vital if your claim faces challenges or if you require additional benefits.
File a First Report of Injury
Once you’ve sought medical care, the next step is to notify your employer about the incident. Maine law requires workers to report injuries within 30 days. While this is the legal deadline, reporting immediately can prevent delays in processing your claim.
The Maine Department of Labor says that if a first report of an employee missing one or more days of work due to injury or work-related illness has been filed in Maine, the statute of limitations for a workers’ compensation claim is 2 years from the date of the filing of the report. If no report has been filed then it’s 2 years from the date of the injury or discovery of symptoms.
You should seek immediate medical care if you have been injured or are experiencing symptoms. After that, it is important to file a report with your employer as soon as you can.
Maine workers’ compensation laws state that if you have partial incapacity you can receive benefits for a maximum of 520 weeks. Payment is 80% of your after-tax wage.
Why You Should Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Many believe filing an injury claim is straightforward. While that’s true in some cases, the process often involves unexpected complications.
For example, your employer might dispute whether your injury occurred during work hours or suggest that it happened on your own time. They could also challenge the severity of your injury to avoid liability.
Don’t navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation alone. Hire an experienced workers’ comp attorney to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is handled properly.
Work With an Experienced Local Lawyer in Maine
Your health and well-being need to come first. If you are hurt while working or find out an illness you are suffering is the result of your job, you will want to seek compensation.
We can connect you with a local attorney or one across Maine state lines.
Submit a request online or call us at (866) 345-6784 to find a workers’ compensation lawyer today!
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