Commuting Accidents And The Going And Coming Rule
Most workers assume that if they are injured while traveling for work, workers’ compensation will automatically cover their medical bills and lost wages. Unfortunately, it is not always that simple. In Maryland, commuting-related injuries are often analyzed under what is known as the going and coming rule.
Generally speaking, this rule says that injuries sustained while traveling to or from a regular workplace are not considered work-related. The reasoning is that employees are usually not yet acting within the scope of their employment, but there are important exceptions. Discussing these exceptions with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer can make a major difference for injured workers trying to recover physically and financially.
When Travel Time May Be Covered
Although the going and coming rule limits many commuting claims, Maryland law recognizes that some workers travel as part of their jobs. When travel becomes closely connected to employment duties, injuries may become compensable.
For example, employees who drive between job sites during the workday are often covered if an accident occurs. Similarly, workers running errands for an employer or attending off-site meetings may qualify for benefits because the travel serves a business purpose.
There are also situations where employers provide transportation or require employees to use company vehicles. In some of these cases, injuries occurring during travel may fall within workers’ compensation coverage.
Common exceptions to the going and coming rule:
- Traveling between multiple work locations
- Running work-related errands
- Using employer-provided transportation
- Traveling employees, such as sales representatives
- Special assignments away from a normal workplace
- Business trips or conferences
- Emergency calls outside normal work hours
Each case depends heavily on the specific facts involved. Even small details about why the employee was traveling, where they were going, or whether the employer benefited from the trip can impact whether benefits are available.
Claims May Be Disputed
Following an injury, Insurers may argue that an employee was simply commuting like anyone else and therefore not entitled to benefits. Speaking with a Baltimore personal injury lawyer can help injured individuals better determine whether exceptions to the going and coming rule may apply to their situation.
Once you connect with a legal professional, they will review accident details, employment responsibilities, travel requirements, and employer expectations to assess whether the injury may qualify for compensation. In many situations, workers are surprised to learn that they may have access to benefits.
Importantly, injured workers should act quickly after an accident. Delays in reporting injuries or seeking legal guidance can sometimes complicate a claim. Even if there is uncertainty about whether travel was work-related, obtaining information early can help preserve important evidence. Commuting accidents exist in a gray area of Maryland workers’ compensation law, but that does not mean injured employees are automatically without options.
Are you recovering from an injury that you sustained while traveling to work? Connect with the seasoned attorneys at Iamele & Iamele, LLP to discuss MD workers’ compensation law and explore the possibility of accessing compensation. When you are ready to schedule a confidential consultation, contact us.
