Workers’ Compensation for First Responders

Firefighters, ambulance workers, and other first responders perform demanding work that can expose them to significant physical risks.

New York law provides workers’ compensation protections for certain volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers who are injured in the line of duty. The specific requirements and benefits can depend on the circumstances of the injury and the individual’s status.

Injuries Can Happen in Many Ways

First responders may suffer injuries while:

• Responding to an emergency
• Performing rescue activities
• Operating or working around emergency equipment
• Lifting or carrying patients
• Fighting fires
• Training or performing other covered duties
• Traveling or performing activities connected to their responsibilities

The circumstances surrounding the injury can be important in determining whether benefits are available.

Understanding Your Rights

First-responder workers’ compensation cases can involve questions concerning eligibility, the nature of the injury, medical treatment, wage replacement, and permanency.

It is important to understand how the workers’ compensation system applies to your particular situation rather than assuming that every case is handled the same way.

How We Can Help

Abdo & O’Brien can review the circumstances surrounding a first responder’s injury and explain the workers’ compensation process.

We can also assist with issues involving medical treatment, compensation, permanency, and disputes with the insurance carrier.

If you have been injured while performing first-responder duties, our team can help you understand your options.