Police, Firefighter, and EMT Workers’ Compensation Claims

Police, fighters, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) put their health and safety on the line each day at their jobs. They are the first people we call when adverse events happen and are typically first on the scene of crimes, natural disasters, and other hazardous situations. As a result, they are among the most high-risk workers when it comes to occupational injuries and illnesses.

The same as with any other worker, emergency service providers are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney explains some of the most common types of conditions they suffer from and how they can protect their rights in filing a claim.

Occupational Injuries and Illnesses Suffered By Emergency Service Providers

According to statistics from the Maryland Department of Labor, over 65,000 people suffer work-related injuries and illnesses each year. Among those most at risk are emergency service providers.

The nature of their jobs puts them in harm’s way on a regular basis and increases the likelihood that accidental injuries will happen. Among the most common types of occupational injuries impacting police, firefighters, and EMTs include:

• Motor vehicle accident injuries.
• Slips, trips, and falls.
• Getting struck by or against objects.
• Overuse injuries.
• Acts of violence.
• Aggressive behavior on the part of people in emergency situations.
• Electrocutions and burn injuries.

Emergency service providers are also at risk for occupational illnesses due to exposure to hazardous substances and toxic chemicals. Heart disease, mental health disorders, and post-traumatic stress are common. Firefighters are at particularly high risk for developing asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), other potentially dangerous respiratory conditions, and some cancers.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits For Police, Firefighters, And EMTs

Emergency service providers are entitled to worker’s compensation for occupational injuries and illnesses. Benefits available through the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC) can help in covering medical expenses and lost wages, while compensating them for any long-term disabilities. However, firefighters, police, and EMTs are just as likely as any other worker to have their claim denied or disputed.

If you are an emergency service provider, take these steps to protect your rights to workers’ compensation benefits in Maryland:

• Inform your employer of any type of job-related accident, illness, or injuries immediately.
• Make sure an incident report is filed and details what happened or your exposure.
• Seek medical care as soon as possible and inform your doctor of all symptoms.
• Follow their instructions when it comes to work and other activity restrictions.
• Keep copies of all medical records and lost wages.
• Contact an attorney to file your Workers’ Compensation claim.

Request A Consultation With Our Maryland Workers’ Compensation Attorney

As an emergency service provider, you put your health and safety on the line daily. When job-related injuries or illnesses happen, Berman | Sobin | Gross LLP is here to help you get the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. Call or contact our Maryland workers’ compensation attorney online to request a consultation today.

Sources:

dllr.state.md.us/labor/research/research2016.shtml

wcc.state.md.us/