Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep the rest of us safe. They do so by heading straight toward the dangers we are running away from, whether it is a house fire or a car accident. But who protects them?
Our work injury lawyers are here to serve the firefighting community. Firefighter fatalities in the line of duty have held steady at just under 70 for three years straight nationwide, while more than 68,000 firefighters got hurt on the job in 2015. Surprisingly enough, only 42 percent – or 29,130 – of those injuries actually occurred at the fireground. If you have been hurt on the job, or if you have lost a family member to the job, Burg Simpson’s workers’ compensation attorneys can help you today!
Burg Simpson’s workers’ compensation attorneys and paralegals have more than four decades of experience handling cases regarding firefighter workers compensation law. We can help you traverse a complicated workers’ compensation claims process to fight for your rights and the maximum benefit amount possible. We will help you:
- Understand the firefighter Workers’ Compensation law and its lengthy rules process
- Access the very best – and timeliest – medical care and treatment
- Secure reimbursement for expenses incurred after your accident
- Receive fair compensation for your injuries
- Determine how and when you can file a third-party claim
A work injury lawyer from Burg Simpson has the knowledge needed to help you through these intricate cases if you are a firefighter. Our workers’ compensation attorneys have been standing up for firefighters because they are essential to public safety, and we recognize the risks and dangerous situations associated with your profession. Fill out our Case Evaluation form right now so we can talk to you for Free!
How Firefighters Get Hurt
Just two hazards accounted for more than half of firefighter injuries at the fireground in 2015:
Falls, jumps, slips — These can involve a fall from a ladder, a mistimed jump in a burning building, or a simple slip and fall in a puddle of water. These accounted for 27.2 percent of all fireground injuries.
Overexertion, strain – Also making up 27.2 percent of injuries, these are typically a result of lifting or moving heavy equipment or fire debris.
Struck by objects – Roughly 9 percent of firefighters injured on the scene were struck by an object.
Other injuries include:
- Repetitive strain
- Burns
- Smoke inhalation
- Slip-and-fall injuries
- Stress and psychological conditions, such as PTSD
- Exposure to communicable diseases, such as hepatitis
- Exposure to hazardous and toxic chemicals
- Extreme weather
- Radiation
Common Firefighter Illnesses
Extensive research has shown that firefighters are also prone to several illnesses. Because of the nature of the job, firefighters endure elevated levels of heat, flames, stress (both mental and physical), and carbon monoxide. Several studies have revealed that firefighters are at a much greater risk for heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and hepatitis.
Certain types of cancer are much more prevalent in firefighters, such as digestive, oral, respiratory, and urinary cancers. Additionally, firefighters are twice as likely as the general population to contract malignant mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Finally, research shows younger firefighters (those under 65) have increased rates of bladder and prostate cancers.
If you are a firefighter who has contracted any of these illnesses, your job may have played a part in that. Speak to a workers’ compensation attorney today for FREE!
What Are Firefighters Entitled to with Workers’ Comp?
Workers’ compensation is designed to pay for an injured (or ill) firefighter’s medical expenses. However, there are accommodations for cash reimbursement for missed work days, too. There are other benefits you may be entitled to, as well, such as:
- Temporary total disability
- Temporary partial disability
- Permanent total disability
- Permanent partial disability
- Death benefits
Did you know Burg Simpson’s workers’ comp lawyers can help you apply for additional Social Security benefits, as well? We are also experienced in researching and filing possible third-party personal injury claims. Call us now at 866-234-7768 to find out more!
What Is a Third-Party Personal Injury Lawsuit?
If someone other than your employer was responsible for your injury or illness, you might be eligible to sue a third-party for damages and compensation. It is another reason you should speak with one of our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers today to explore every option available. We offer a free, no-obligationconsultation to discuss your case. If you decide to work with us, we operate on a contingency basis, which means we only get paid if you receive compensation.
HOW TO CONTACT WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAWYER AT BURG SIMPSON
An injury or illness acquired in the line of duty can be devastating. A firefighter killed while trying to save lives is not only tragic, but it can destroy the lives of their loved ones, as well. Burg Simpson can help. Our work injury lawyers have been fighting for workers’ more than 40 years. We know the ins and outs of firefighter workers’ compensation law. Call us right now at 866-234-7768 or fill out our FREE Evaluation Form by clicking here.
