Have you suffered injuries while working as a police officer in Pennsylvania? Dealing with the physical and emotional impact of an injury is hard enough—handling a workers’ compensation claim on top of that can feel overwhelming. You shouldn’t have to face these challenges alone.
The attorneys at Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C., help file claims for workers’ compensation for injured police officers like you. We understand the demands of your job and the specific issues that can arise as you seek your benefits. Contact us today for a free initial consultation, and let us stand by your side as you recover.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation for Police Officers
Workers’ compensation covers law enforcement officers officers who suffer occupational injuries or illnesses in Pennsylvania. This includes injuries that occur while officers perform duties such as arrests, traffic stops, or other law enforcement activities. However, not all injuries qualify for workers’ compensation. For example, injuries resulting from intentional self-harm, drug or alcohol use, or actions outside the scope of officers’ official duties typically do not qualify.
If a police officer gets hurt on the job, workers’ compensation covers all their necessary medical care costs. An injured law enforcement officer can choose their own healthcare providers, but if their employers have posted lists of approved providers, officers must choose providers from those lists for the first 90 days of treatment. After that, they can see any healthcare providers they choose for a second opinion.
Injured law enforcement personnel can claim wage loss benefits, which begin after they miss more than seven days of work. These benefits cover about two-thirds of the officer’s average weekly wage, up to a statewide maximum. If an officer is out of work for 14 days or more, they receive retroactive pay for the first seven missed days. Workers’ comp for police officers also provides specific loss benefits if an officer loses a body part or the use of a body part. The amount of these benefits depends on the body part and the severity of the loss.
Additionally, workers’ compensation provides benefits for partial and total disability. Total disability benefits are available if an officer cannot work at all due to their injury. Partial disability benefits are available if the officer can work but earns less than before due to their injury. Officers can receive partial disability benefits for a maximum of 500 weeks.
Common Injuries Faced by Police Officers
Pennsylvania police officers face many risks while performing their job duties. Common police officer injuries include those resulting from physical altercations during arrests or confrontations, which can result in sprains, strains, and fractures. Officers often sustain injuries to their hands, wrists, and shoulders when restraining suspects or during hand-to-hand combat.
Police work also involves a lot of driving, which increases the risk of vehicle accident-related injuries like whiplash, broken bones, and head trauma. Additionally, officers can suffer from back and neck injuries due to prolonged periods of sitting in patrol cars or carrying heavy gear.
Hazardous exposure is another risk. Officers often encounter harmful chemicals, drugs, or other dangerous materials, which can lead to respiratory issues, skin conditions, or other health problems.
Workers’ Compensation Claim Process for Police Officers
If you suffer a work-related injury as a police officer in Pennsylvania, prompt action is crucial. First, you should report your injury to your employer within 21 days to protect your right to benefits. The final deadline to report is 120 days, but reporting promptly is the best way to get the timely support you need. Once you report your injury, you have up to three years from the injury date to file a claim petition if your employer or their insurer denies your request for benefits.
Having an attorney can make a significant difference in this process. Workers’ comp claims involve complex procedures, and insurance companies are eager to lower costs by reducing benefit payouts. An attorney can gather necessary documentation, meet all deadlines, and present a strong case on your behalf, increasing your likelihood of receiving the benefits you’re entitled to.
Benefits Available to Injured Police Officers
In addition to workers’ compensation, injured police officers in Pennsylvania have access to other significant benefits that can provide financial support during their recoveries.
Pennsylvania’s Heart and Lung Act of 1935 offers full salary continuation and medical coverage for police officers who suffer temporary disabilities while on duty. This allows injured officers to continue receiving their full pay while they recover without using accumulated sick or vacation time. This financial support is critical for officers who need time to heal from injuries they sustain in the line of duty.
The federal Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) Act provides further protection. This program offers a one-time lump-sum payment to the families of police officers who die or suffer permanent disabilities in the line of duty. The PSOB Act also provides educational assistance to the children of fallen officers, helping them cover the costs of college or other higher education.
These additional benefits, alongside workers’ compensation, aim to ensure that injured officers and their families have the financial resources they need during difficult times. Understanding and accessing these benefits can make a substantial difference in the lives of those who serve and protect our communities.
Why Police Officers Should Consider Hiring an Attorney
If you’re an injured police officer, you should consider retaining a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney to safeguard your rights and secure the full benefits you deserve. The workers’ compensation process is complex, with strict deadlines and paperwork requirements. A lawyer can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as missed deadlines or incomplete information, that could delay or jeopardize your claim.
Your attorney can also negotiate with employers and insurance companies on your behalf, demanding fair treatment and preventing your claim from being unfairly denied or undervalued. With a Hershey workers’ compensation lawyer on your side, you can focus on your recovery, knowing that a skilled professional is managing your case and fighting for your interests.
Contact Our Hershey Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today
If you’re a police officer in Pennsylvania dealing with a work-related injury, don’t wait to get the help you need. The attorneys at Calhoon & Kaminsky, P.C., are here to support you through the workers’ compensation process. Contact us today for a free initial consultation. We’ll listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and work tirelessly to obtain the benefits you are due.
