Jackson Fire, Paramedic & EMT Responder Injury Lawyer
Mississippi fire, paramedics, and EMTs encounter work-related hazards on a regular basis that would terrify employees in other professions. Recognizing that these individuals put their lives in jeopardy through exposure to unique risks, lawmakers recently enacted the Mississippi First Responders Health and Safety Act to align the state with others that offer special treatment. You may be able to take advantage of a legal presumption when it comes to claiming workers’ compensation benefits, though some of the traditional options still apply.
However, there are still numerous requirements to qualify, and the legal concepts are complicated. To ensure you obtain the benefits to which you are entitled by law, trust the experienced lawyer at Keith B. French Law. We are prepared to address presumptive disability issues, and a Jackson first responder workers’ compensation lawyer can help. Please contact us to set up a free case review, though some background information may be useful.
Mississippi Workers’ Comp Laws for Fire, Paramedics & EMTs
The state system for workers’ compensation is not based upon fault, but you still need to prove certain facts to be approved for benefits. You must be a covered employee who suffered an injury or occupational disease due to workplace conditions. However, if you fall under the definition of first responder, you get help with this burden from the legal presumption under Mississippi workers’ comp laws. As such:
- Your ailment must involve a cancer or other disease designated by law, most of which would be incurred through exposure to heat, smoke, carcinogens, toxins, or other chemicals.
- Disorders related to the stress of the job for a fire fighter, paramedic, or EMT are also covered.
- First responders are eligible to enjoy the presumption if they have completed at least 10 years of service and cannot perform job-related tasks.
- A qualifying worker does not automatically get benefits, but would raise the presumption when filing a claim.
- Your employer and/or insurance company may rebut the presumption with evidence to the contrary, such as proof of a pre-existing condition. This information may provide grounds to deny your claim or create other challenges.
Workers’ Comp Benefits for First Responders
From the points above, you can see that the process is very detailed and complex compared to other workers’ comp claims. You can trust our Jackson workers’ compensation lawyer for fire, paramedics & EMTs for assistance with this relatively new Mississippi law on presumptive disability. Keith B. French Law will address the details, as you may be entitled to a lump sum payment up to $35,000 if eligible.
Speak to Our Jackson First Responder Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
This overview should help Mississippi fire, paramedics, and EMTs understand the basics about presumptive disability and related workers’ comp issues. It also highlights the difficulties with the claims process. For knowledgeable advice and assistance with your claim, please contact the Jackson offices of Keith B. French Law. You can schedule a no-cost case review with a member of our team by calling 601-983-2667 or visiting our website.
