Springfield, IL Firefighter Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Protecting the Rights of Injured Firefighters in Sangamon County
While firefighting is an incredibly courageous line of work, it’s also incredibly dangerous. From responding to major highway accidents and disasters to rushing into burning buildings, firefighters constantly put their lives on the line to ensure the safety of others. If you were injured as a firefighter in Springfield, securing experienced representation is critical to recovering benefits for medical expenses, lost earnings, and more.
This is where a skilled firefighter workers’ compensation lawyer can make all the difference. At Haxel Law, we understand the unique challenges that firefighters face when seeking compensation for job-related injuries. That’s why our lawyers are committed to protecting your rights in Sangamon County. With decades of experience and a proven track record of results, you can trust us to prioritize your case at every step.
If you were injured on the job in Springfield, our attorneys can work diligently to recover the benefits you deserve. Contact us online to discuss your case.
Common Injuries in Firefighting Accidents
Firefighting is a physically demanding job that requires firefighters to be in top physical condition. Unfortunately, this also puts them at a higher risk of injuries. Common injuries in firefighting accidents include:
- Burns and smoke inhalation
- Respiratory issues due to hazardous materials
- Falls from heights or slippery surfaces while battling fires
- Muscle strains and sprains from performing physically demanding tasks
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health conditions
- Traumatic injuries from vehicle accidents while responding to emergencies
Unique Challenges for Firefighters in Workers’ Compensation Cases
While seeking workers’ comp benefits after any job-related injury can be stressful, navigating a workers’ compensation claim as a firefighter can be all the more tedious. Securing representation from a knowledgeable attorney is paramount to recovering the full benefits you deserve.
Some unique challenges faced by firefighters in workers’ compensation cases include:
- Proving the extent of injuries: Firefighters are at a higher risk for injury than other professions. However, establishing the severity and extent of firefighting injuries can be challenging due to a lack of visible or immediate symptoms.
- Pre-existing conditions: Pre-existing conditions can complicate workers' compensation claims. A knowledgeable lawyer can help establish eligibility for workers’ comp by proving injuries were caused by job-related tasks.
- Mental health concerns: Exposure to traumatic events can have long-lasting impacts on an individual’s mental health and quality of life. However, mental health conditions aren’t always recognized as compensable under workers’ compensation laws, making it crucial to seek legal representation.
- Complex legal procedures: Workers’ compensation laws and procedures can be complex, especially while recovering from a serious injury. A workers’ comp lawyer can help firefighters navigate the legal intricacies of their case while advocating for a fair settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 217-215-4166 today!
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How Long Do I Have to Report a Firefighter Injury in Illinois?
Under Illinois workers’ compensation laws, firefighters must report work-related injuries to their employer within 45 days of the accident or discovery of the injury. Failure to promptly report the accident can result in loss of eligibility for benefits.
To avoid delays, it’s important to include all relevant information in your report, including your contact information, a brief description of the injury, and supporting documentation. Our attorneys can help you file a timely report and support your claim with relevant evidence, freeing you to focus on your health and recovery during this stressful time.
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How to Report a Work-Related Injury as a Firefighter
If you were injured on the job in Springfield, knowing what to do next is imperative to recovering benefits in a workers’ comp claim. Some important steps to take after a firefighter injury include:
- Seek medical treatment: Seek immediate medical attention as soon as possible to protect your well-being and establish formal documentation of your injuries.
- Notify your employer: Inform your immediate supervisor about the accident as soon as possible. Failure to report your injury within 45 days can result in the loss of eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits.
- Complete an incident report: Your employer may request that you fill out an incident form to provide additional details about the injury.
- Keep thorough records: Be sure to document everything related to your injury and keep copies of all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and any other relevant documentation.
- Secure legal representation: Partnering with a firefighter workers’ comp lawyer is essential to navigate the claims process effectively and recover the benefits you’re rightfully entitled to.
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What Are My Rights After a Firefighter Injury in Springfield?
Firefighter injuries commonly result from hazardous environments and repetitive physical strain, which can complicate the process of proving the extent and cause of the injury. Illinois law acknowledges these challenges by allowing claims to include gradually developing conditions like heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and PTSD.
Firefighters are also subject to presumptive laws under the Illinois Compiled Statutes, which presume that certain conditions are related to their employment (such as respiratory and cardiovascular disease). This allows injured firefighters to recover compensation, assuming certain criteria are met.
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What Benefits Are Available in Firefighter Workers’ Comp Claims?
Illinois workers’ compensation laws provide certain benefits to injured firefighters, including:
- Medical expenses: Workers’ comp covers medical treatment, rehabilitation costs, prescription medications, and other necessary medical expenses related to the work injury.
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits: If you are temporarily unable to work due to a job-related injury, you may be eligible for temporary total disability (TTD) benefits. These typically cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage until you are able to return to work or reach maximum medical improvement.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits: If you are able to return to work at a reduced capacity due to your injury, you may be eligible for temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits, which provide two-thirds of the difference between your pre- and post-injury wages.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits: If your injuries result in permanent impairment but don’t completely prevent you from working, you may receive permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits based on the degree of impairment and your average weekly wage.
- Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits: If you suffer a permanent disability that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for permanent total disability (PTD) benefits to cover two-thirds of your average weekly wage for as long as the disability persists.
- Vocational rehabilitation: In some cases, injured firefighters may need occupational therapy or training to return to work. Vocational rehabilitation can help cover the costs of these services.
- Death benefits: If a firefighter dies as a result of a job-related injury, their surviving dependents may receive death benefits to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial support.
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My Workers’ Comp Claim Was Denied in Springfield. What Should I Do?
If your workers’ comp claim was denied after a firefighting injury in Springfield, knowing what to do next is critical to recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other losses resulting from the accident. Some key steps to take after a denial include:
- Consult with your lawyer: Your workers’ compensation attorney can help you exercise your legal rights by filing an appeal.
- Review the denial: Your lawyer can evaluate the denial with a practiced legal eye and gather additional evidence or documentation to support your case.
- File an appeal: To appeal a denied workers' comp claim, injured workers must file a Petition for Review with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). Our firm can help you file your appeal within the 30-day deadline and maximize your chance of obtaining approval for benefits.
Why Hire Haxel Law?
After a workplace injury, seeking sound counsel is critical to recovering the full benefits you deserve. Why trust Haxel Law to protect your rights? Here are some reasons why injured workers trust us to represent their best interests in Springfield:
- Legal experience: When you hire Haxel Law, you’ll put decades of experience on your side while benefitting from personalized representation.
- High success rate: With a winning track record of results and a success rate of over 90%, our advocates have a reputation for obtaining justice.
- Empathetic counsel: Our firm truly understands how it feels to be in your shoes, which is why we provide empathetic counsel to alleviate stress throughout the legal process.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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"Thanks For All You Have Done!"Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.