New Jersey EMT Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

Workers’ Compensation Attorney for EMTs in New Jersey

Understanding Your Rights and Benefits as an EMT

Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) serve on the front lines, providing essential, life-saving services in times of emergency. Their service, often carried out in high-stress and hazardous conditions, exposes them to the risk of injury. As a dedicated EMT in New Jersey, it’s crucial to understand your entitlement to workers’ compensation benefits.

What Is Workers’ Compensation for EMTs?

Workers’ compensation for Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) is a form of insurance designed to provide medical benefits and wage replacement to EMTs injured in the line of duty. Given the high-risk nature of emergency medical services, this coverage is crucial, ensuring EMTs receive proper care and financial support during recovery periods. In addition to covering medical expenses and rehabilitation costs, workers’ compensation offers compensation for lost wages if an EMT is unable to work due to the injury. Importantly, it also provides benefits to the family of an EMT who may suffer a fatal incident while on the job. Understanding the scope and application of these benefits is fundamental to fully exercising the rights afforded to EMTs under the law.

Eligibility for EMT Workers’ Compensation Benefits

The state of New Jersey acknowledges the sacrifices and risks EMTs face daily. Despite many being volunteers, there are provisions in the law that recognize the right of specific public officials, including EMTs, to workers’ compensation benefits. The eligibility criteria stipulate that the injury must occur “in the line of duty” and while “doing public duty.” These terms are broadly defined to cover a range of situations faced by EMTs on the job.

Comprehensive Benefits for Injured EMTs

Should you sustain an injury while fulfilling your duties, you may be eligible for several types of workers’ compensation benefits, including:

• Complete coverage for medical treatment associated with your injury
• Temporary disability benefits to support your livelihood during recovery
• A permanency award, should you experience any permanent loss of function

Moreover, EMTs injured on the job are entitled to the maximum weekly statutory wage for the year of the injury, ensuring financial stability while unable to work.

Common Injuries Sustained by New Jersey EMTs

EMTs are routinely exposed to a variety of risks that can lead to both acute and chronic injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Musculoskeletal Injuries: These are often due to lifting and moving patients, which can cause sprains, strains, and back injuries.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Sharp objects at the scene or during the care of patients can cause these injuries.
• Exposure to Infectious Diseases: Through contact with patients, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials, EMTs are at risk of contracting diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and COVID-19.
• Mental Health Issues: High-stress situations can lead to emotional and psychological issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Vehicle-Related Injuries: Accidents while riding in ambulances or other emergency vehicles, as well as struck-by incidents at road scenes, are a concern.
• Burns: Injuries from fires or explosions while providing emergency care can occur.
• Hearing Loss: Exposure to loud sirens and equipment may lead to auditory problems over time.
• Slip and Fall Injuries: These can happen both on emergency scenes and within medical facilities.
• Assaults and Violent Acts: EMTs may face violence from patients, bystanders, or even criminals at a scene.

Our Commitment to EMTs at Di Lauri & Hewitt Law Group

At Di Lauri & Hewitt Law Group, we don’t just provide legal services; we champion the rights of those who serve our communities. As workers’ compensation attorneys for NJ EMTs recognized by Super Lawyers, our track record is backed by a track record of success and a strategic approach tailored to the unique needs of EMTs.

Our attorneys specialize in navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation laws to secure the benefits our clients are rightfully entitled to. We understand the delicate nature of your commitment as an EMT and the challenges that come with being injured in such a critical role. That’s why we’re dedicated to offering personalized legal services that help you through this challenging time.

If you are an EMT who has been injured in the line of duty, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Let our seasoned attorneys at Di Lauri & Hewitt Law Group stand alongside you. Contact us for a consultation and take the first step towards safeguarding your future and the well-being of those who depend on you.