Firefighters risk their own safety to protect the rest of the community. They face significant dangers and are threatened by incredible bodily harm, and even death, in the line of their work. So when a firefighter is injured, what protections do they have while they recover? Firefighters, like many workers, are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. If they are killed on the job, their loved ones may be able to claim their benefits on the behalf of the deceased.
Common Firefighter Injuries
Obviously, burn-related injuries are a common injury, but they aren’t the most common injuries sustained by firefighters. Here are a few of the most common injuries:
- Slip and fall injuries
- Overexertion injuries
- Being struck by flying/falling objects
- Contact injuries
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals or radiation
- Injuries caused by extreme weather conditions
Workers’ compensation is intended to cover any injury or illness that a firefighter may be affected by while on the job. There are also workers’ compensation laws in place to cover the illnesses and injuries that can occur after working for many years as a firefighter. These conditions include:
- Cancer
- Respiratory conditions
- Heart conditions
- Tuberculosis
- Pneumonia
- Spinal disc degeneration
- Hearing loss
- Skin diseases
Exposure to smoke and dangerous chemicals for even short periods of time can be harmful, but decades of exposure will often cause significant health issues.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim as a Firefighter
If you’ve been injured in the line of duty, you deserve to receive the benefits you are entitled to. These benefits can include compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Treatment-related expenses
- Lost wages
- Temporary or permanent disability
Workers’ compensation benefits are meant to cover any related medical expenses and compensate you for your wages while you are in recovery. If you’ve been permanently disabled by your injuries, you can also receive benefits to support you.
What workers’ compensation benefits do not cover, however, is noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering. If there was a significantly negligent action that led to your injury, it may be prudent to file a personal injury claim instead of a workers’ compensation claim. A personal injury claim will include damages for your medical bills, lost wages, and lost potential income, as well as other damages that are harder to quantify. These include pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, emotional trauma, and more.
If you are unsure of which claim is right for you, or what your next steps should be, it’s important to get in touch with a workers’ compensation attorney who is well-versed in the complexities of firefighter injuries. Your lawyer will be a valuable resource and can help you explore all your legal options to ensure that your best interests are looked after. Whether you suffered a sudden injury on the job, or are experiencing a condition brought on by years of exposure to dangerous substances, you deserve to be fairly compensated for your injuries.
Our Albuquerque workers’ compensation attorney is standing by to assist you. Our team at Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law has the experience, knowledge, and passion to fight for your rights. We will work tirelessly to support you and help your case prevail. Ready to learn more? Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with our legal team today.
Contact our firm online, or call (505) 219-2176 to get started.