Springfield, IL Police Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Law Enforcement Injury Lawyers Serving Sangamon County
Law enforcement officers are some of the most courageous and valued members of our society. From gunshot wounds to high-speed chases, police officers are willing to put themselves in harm’s way to protect public safety. At Haxel Law, we believe law enforcement officials deserve the same level of dedication, protection, and respect.
If you were injured on the job in Springfield, our attorneys can fight for the benefits you need to get back on your feet after a serious injury. Since 2015, our police workers’ compensation lawyers have been dedicated to protecting the rights of our brothers and sisters in blue in Sangamon County. Our firm can guide your legal steps wisely and compassionately while you focus on your recovery.
Injured as a police officer in Springfield? Our attorneys can help you seek workers’ compensation for your injuries. Call (217) 215-4166 to schedule a free consultation.
Injury Statistics for Illinois Police Officers
Unexpected accidents can upend an individual’s health, career, and quality of life in a heartbeat, making it crucial to seek sound counsel as soon as possible after an accident. While any workplace injury can be stressful, police officers are at an especially high risk of harm due to the dangerous and unpredictable nature of the job. According to the Department of Justice, approximately 16,000 police officers are injured on the job every year.
Common Injuries in Law Enforcement
Due to the inherent risks involved, work-related incidents can lead to serious injuries for law enforcement officials. Common injuries in the police industry include:
- Fractures and sprains resulting from slips, falls, or vehicular accidents.
- Musculoskeletal injuries due to physical altercations or heavy lifting.
- Gunshot wounds sustained during confrontations or active shooter situations.
- Exposure to hazardous materials due to contact with drugs or chemicals during investigations.
- Psychological injuries caused by stress or trauma in high-pressure situations.
Unique Challenges Faced by Police in Workers’ Comp Cases
At Haxel Law, we understand the unique pressures faced by police officers. Law enforcement officials often face dangerous hazards in their line of work, including physical confrontations, high-speed pursuits, and exposure to unsafe environments, such as gunfire or hazardous substances.
Fortunately, our firm is well-versed in the legal intricacies of these claims to advocate for the full benefits you deserve. From proving the injury was work-related to challenging skepticism from employers or insurers, our attorneys are familiar with local police department policies and procedures in Springfield to help officers navigate common challenges throughout the claims process.
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!
-
What Workers’ Comp Benefits Are Available to Police Officers?
Injured police officers may be entitled to various types of compensation in a workers’ compensation claim. Some available benefits include:
- Medical expenses coverage: Police officers are entitled to full coverage for medical costs related to work-related injuries, such as surgeries, hospital stays, follow-up appointments, treatments, prescription medications, and other immediate and long-term healthcare needs.
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits: If an officer is unable to work in any capacity after an injury, they may receive TTD benefits to recover a portion of lost wages during their recovery period.
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits: For officers who can work but earn less due to their injury, TPD benefits can provide supplemental income to offset the reduction in earnings.
- Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits: If an officer is unable to return to any form of permanent employment, they may receive PTD benefits to make up a portion of their previous wages.
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits: If an officer suffers a permanent injury that partially limits their ability to work, they may receive PPD benefits for diminished earning capacity.
- Vocational rehabilitation: Injured officers may be entitled to financial assistance for retraining or education to help them transition into a new role or career if they cannot return to their previous duties.
-
How Long Do I Have to File for Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
In Illinois, employees must report work-related injuries within 45 days of the accident or risk losing their right to benefits. It’s best to notify your employer verbally or in writing as soon as possible after the incident to maintain your eligibility for benefits and recover compensation for medical bills and other losses related to the injury.
-
I Was Injured on Police Duty in Sangamon County. What Should I Do?
Knowing your rights after a work-related injury is paramount to protecting your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. If you were injured while on active police duty, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Seek medical attention: Seeking immediate medical care is a top priority to prioritize your health and create a formal record of your injuries.
- Report the injury: Notify your employer of the incident as soon as possible to maintain your eligibility for workers’ comp benefits.
- Document the incident: Keep detailed records of the event and any medical treatments to support your claim.
- Seek legal representation: Consulting a workers’ compensation lawyer with experience handling similar cases in law enforcement is a must to recover the maximum benefits you’re entitled to.
-
I Was Recently Diagnosed with PTSD as a Springfield Police Officer. Does Workers’ Comp Cover Psychological Conditions?
Yes, workers’ compensation covers PTSD and other psychological conditions for police officers. However, proving these injuries can be more challenging due to their subjective nature, making it essential to consult with a knowledgeable attorney who can advocate for the full compensation you deserve.
Despite the mental health stigma, it’s important to understand that psychological injuries can be just as damaging as physical injuries. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can inflict debilitating hardships on police officers and their loved ones. Severe cases can not only impair day-to-day functioning, but also rob individuals of the ability to heal and regain a sense of safety in the world.
If you developed PTSD while serving as a police officer, you deserve financial and emotional support to heal from traumatic events and recover your sense of self. Our lawyers can help you seek full coverage for your psychological injuries by gathering evidence to fortify your claim and consulting with mental health specialists if necessary.
Contact Our Time-Tested Trial Injury Lawyers in Springfield
From navigating complex bureaucratic processes to staying financially afloat during the recovery period, the last thing you need after a work injury is additional stress. If you were injured while serving as a police officer, our attorneys can work diligently to recover workers’ compensation benefits on your behalf.
Why trust Haxel Law to protect your rights? Some advantages of partnering with our firm include:
- Over 40 years of experience: We have decades of experience protecting the wrongfully injured in our community.
- Proven track record of results: With a success rate of over 90%, we believe our impressive case results speak for themselves.
- Litigation experience: We never hesitate to stand up to large insurers or companies if necessary to obtain justice for our clients.
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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.
-
"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.