First responders spend their days helping others, often performing strenuous and demanding tasks. These professionals also face a high risk of injury each day. First responders who are injured while performing their job duties are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. However, benefits are not automatically guaranteed. Employees must report their injuries to their employer and file a claim to apply for benefits. The process can be complex, and claims may be denied. If you were injured performing your duties as a first responder, a San Bernardino first responder workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim and help you achieve the best outcome possible.
Contact our dedicated workers’ compensation attorneys today for a free consultation.
Presumptive Coverage for First Responders
Due to the many dangers our San Bernardino first responders face, they are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits that are not available to people in other professions. The law presumes that the following injuries and illnesses are work-related and covered by workers’ compensation.
- Hernias
- COVID-19
- Meningitis
- Heart disease
- Lyme disease
- Certain cancers
- Biochemical exposures
- Bloodborne infectious diseases
- Back injuries from duty belts (for officers who have been employed for at least 5 years)
First responders are also eligible for workers’ compensation related to other injuries sustained while performing work duties. In San Bernardino and across the state, all injuries sustained while performing work duties are covered by workers’ compensation, regardless of fault.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for First Responders
Workers’ compensation benefits in San Bernardino provide financial support for injuries sustained while performing job-related duties. These benefits may include coverage for medical expenses, compensation for lost wages, and payments for temporary or permanent disability. For first responders, the type and amount of compensation depend on the nature and severity of the injury or illness and may include the following.
Medical Costs
Serious injuries sustained by first responders often require a range of medical treatments, including emergency care, hospitalization, ongoing treatment, specialist visits, medication, and therapy. Transportation costs for medical visits may also be covered.
Disability
Temporary or permanent disabilities can prevent first responders from completing their typical duties. When a physician verifies that an employee cannot work because of an on-the-job injury or illness, workers can receive temporary or permanent disability payments that replace full wages up to one year. A work-related injury that results in permanent impairment can make an employee eligible for permanent disability benefits based on the extent of the injury and the age of the employee.
Lost Wages
Recovery from severe injuries often takes weeks or months, during which an injured employee cannot work. Workers in most industries can receive benefits to cover two-thirds of their salary. In San Bernardino, first responders are eligible for full salary for one year after a job-related injury.
Job Displacement Benefits
When a first responder is forced to change careers due to injuries sustained on the job, they may be eligible for a voucher for education-related retraining or skill enhancement to train for a new position. Vouchers can be used to pay for tuition, fees, books, tools, or other educational expenses.
Contact an Experienced Workers’ Comp Attorney for Assistance with Your Claim
If you are a first responder who sustained an injury while performing your work duties, you are entitled to special benefits. However, these benefits are not automatically guaranteed. An experienced San Bernardino first responder workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through the claims process to increase your chances of approval. Don’t leave your entitled benefits to chance. Contact us to schedule a consultation to discuss your claim.
(909) 885-1620