Workers’ Compensation for Police Officers, Firefighters, and Emergency Medical Services

Police, fire fighters and EMS workers have additional workers’ compensation benefits available to them if they are injured in the line of duty. If you are a first responder who sustained an injury while on the job, contact Silverman, McDonald & Friedman today to work with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer. We maintain offices in Newark, Seaford and Wilmington for your convenience.

The public relies on first responders, such as the police officers and firefighters who keep people and property safe, and emergency medical service staff who treat injuries as quickly as possible. These three types of jobs have stresses and risks that demand a lot of physical dexterity and a strong emotional state of mind.

Police officers are in danger of being shot or injured. Many of the people they arrest use drugs or are intoxicated. The officers need to constantly balance protecting people while respecting the rights of the people they arrest. Other dangers include being killed or injured in a crash and being attacked by the people they try to arrest. Every day, they risk not coming home at night. Just one trip with the sirens blaring can be difficult for most people to cope with.

Firefighters have to fight flames and smoke that can be impossible to control. They’re often called to save people trapped in the fires. They’re often exposed to dangerous toxins. They may have to carry someone through a burning house or building that is unstable due to the fire damage.

EMS workers rush to get to patients often being killed or harmed in vehicle accidents. Many EMS workers fly to the accident or harm site. Others speed to get to the patient. They often have just seconds or minutes to save someone’s life. They’re at risk for contracting infectious diseases.

Many public servants work nonstandard shifts and late hours.

Common police, firefighter, and emergency medical service injuries and illnesses

Any public or private servant who is injured at work may suffer a workplace accident. Many also suffer occupational illnesses due to the stress of work and their unusual dangers. Typical injuries include:

• Broken bones
• A traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Strains, springs and muscle injuries
• Burn injuries
• Back, neck, and shoulder pain
• Death

Examples of work-related illnesses that can justify a workers’ compensation claim include:

• High blood pressure
• Depression
• Anxiety-related disorders
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Back injuries
• Infections
• Hearing loss due to repeated firearm uses
• Heart attacks
• Exposure to dangerous toxins
• Exposure to radiation through the use of radar devices

Due to the nature of their job; police, firefighters, and EMS workers are generally presumed more likely to develop hypertension and heart disease than other professions.

At the law firm of Silverman, McDonald & Friedman, we have a strong record of success representing police, firefighters, and emergency medical service professionals. We’ll help you get the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. Our offices are located in Seaford, Wilmington, and Newark. We represent work injury victims in Seaford, Wilmington, and Newark. For strong guidance and compassionate help, please call 302-888-2900 or fill out our contact form today.

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