Jackson Firefighter Injury Lawyer

Workers’ Compensation for Injured Firefighters

While every worker faces certain workplace hazards, first responders are at a disproportionately high risk of being injured on the job. Firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, and other first responders frequently sustain significant bodily injuries, occupational illnesses, and medical conditions as a result of their work.

If you are a firefighter who was injured on the job or who suffered a work-related medical condition, you may be eligible for compensation through the state’s workers’ compensation system or the recently passed Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act. At ‘MAGGIO LAW, we represent injured firefighters and the families of those who die due to work-related injuries or illnesses. Our Jackson firefighter injury attorneys have extensive experience navigating these complex claims and are prepared to advocate for you.

Injured on the job? Need help with your claim? Let our firm fight for you! Call (601) 265-6869 or contact us online for a free initial consultation.

What Is the Mississippi First Responders Health & Safety Act?

The Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act was signed into law by then-Governor Phil Bryant in April of 2019 and took effect in July of 2021. Under the Act, first responders, including firefighters, with at least 10 years of service who develop certain forms of cancer may qualify for a lump-sum settlement. In general, the specified cancers covered by the Act are presumed to be caused by or related to the first responder’s employment, meaning you do not need to prove that this is the case to be eligible for benefits.

Available benefits under the Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act include:

• $35,000 for a “serious” cancer diagnosis from a board-certified physician
• $6,250 for a “lesser” cancer diagnosis from a board-certified physician
• 60% of the worker’s lost wages or $5,000/month, whichever is less, for up to 36 months

To be considered “serious,” the individual’s cancer diagnosis must either be terminal or require intensive chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and/or surgery. A “lesser” cancer diagnosis is one that is not expected to be terminal, and which can be treated via low-impact methods, such as endoscopy.

Qualifying individuals may be eligible for both forms of medical benefits up to but not exceeding $50,000. To be eligible for wage replacement benefits, the worker must be temporarily or permanently disabled due to their cancer diagnosis. Additionally, there is a six-month waiting period for wage replacement benefits in most cases.

Do Injured Firefighters Qualify for Workers’ Compensation?

In Mississippi, any employer with at least five regular employees must provide workers’ compensation insurance for all employees. While this includes private and state-funded fire departments, federal employees are exempt, as are most volunteer firefighters. As such, your status as a private employee, federal employee, or volunteer will affect your eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits.

At ‘MAGGIO LAW, our Jackson firefighter injury attorneys can discuss your legal rights and options with you during a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you determine if you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, including medical expense benefits, wage replacement, and/or vocational rehabilitation. We can also assist you in identifying and pursuing alternative or supplemental forms of compensation, such as benefits through the Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act or the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers and Firefighters Disability Benefits Trust Fund.

We are well-versed in the many recovery options available to first responders, including firefighters who are injured on the job or develop medical conditions related to their employment. We are also experienced in helping surviving spouses, children, and other loved ones in seeking death benefits after the tragic loss of their family members.

Request a Complimentary Consultation Today

Our team is ready to stand up for you and your rights. We believe that those who dedicate their service and lives to helping others should not have to suffer alone when they are injured or become ill in the course of their work. Our Jackson firefighter workers’ compensation attorneys are here to guide you through the recovery process and fight for every cent you are owed.

We have recovered hundreds of millions in compensation and benefits for our clients. There is no obligation and no risk in discussing your situation with a member of our team today. We invite you to contact us right away to schedule a free initial consultation.

Call (601) 265-6869 or submit an online contact form to get started.