Law enforcement is one of the most hazardous occupations in the world. Police officers, just like firefighters and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), face stress and traumatizing experiences in the line of duty that could result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Legally speaking, traumatized employees are entitled to benefits from workers’ compensation. In reality, however, most insurers unfairly deny officers what they rightfully deserve, which worsens an already troubling situation.
Our Greenville workers’ compensation attorneys understand this and are ready to bring full compensation to your doorstep. Contact us today at (252) 777-2222.
Causes of PTSD Among Police Officers
Law enforcement officers face both physical and mental difficulties that may result in PTSD. Their profession is full of hardships that harbor the following risks:
- Gunshot wounds
- Adverse hostage situations
- On-the-job traffic accidents
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
- Slip-and-fall injuries
- Massive fellow police deaths or injuries
- Survivor’s guilt
Requirements for Compensation for Post-Traumatic Stress
To qualify for compensation for PTSD, you must have:
- Link between your present symptoms and work-related injury established by medical evidence
- Credible supporting evidence that the claimed work related injury occurred
- Medical evidence that diagnoses PTSD
Workers’ Compensation Laws
While workers’ compensation laws allow police officers to obtain some level of benefits when they suffer even minor PTSD, the amount of compensation varies depending on the severity of the situation. For this reason, a professional lawyer comes in handy. He or she will work with your therapist and counselor to build the necessary evidence to prove the severity of your sufferings, and consequently receive a fair settlement.
Professional lawyers have the knowledge and expertise needed to help you receive full compensation, at no upfront cost.
Don’t Fight the Insurance Company on Your Own! Let a Lawyer Help.
Employees with PTSD are entitled to compensation to cover their lost wages, disability benefits, medical bills, and death benefits to surviving family members. Unfortunately, insurance companies and employers might not always do the right thing. Their financial interests sometimes trump the needs of police officers with PTSD. Thus, contacting them without advance knowledge might render you vulnerable. Insurance company adjusters are expert negotiators; they are there to protect their bottom line and will do anything possible to deny or lower your settlement.
If you are a victim of PTSD, you need a lawyer with the proper expertise to fight the “big boys” on your behalf. Our professional lawyers have years of experience handling a myriad of cases, and we would be glad to take your case. We serve clients in Greenville, North Carolina and surrounding areas. We will help you file a claim, represent you in court, fight your battle with the insurance company, and enlighten you more about PTSD workers’ compensation legislation and claims. We will not allow the insurance company to run away from their responsibility. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
As a longtime member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum®, our lead attorney is well-equipped to handle your case. The Ricci Law Firm Injury Lawyers, PA is a group of top-rated US. trial lawyers with multi-million dollar settlements and case verdicts for the injured clients we have served. Take a look at the excellent results our personal injury attorneys have obtained by viewing our Verdicts and Settlements page and our many Testimonials. You can also check out our great client reviews on Facebook, Avvo, and Google.