Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) May Qualify for Additional Compensation After a Work-Related Injury
Some of the work-related injuries paramedics develop can leave them with substantial medical expenses and no way to work while they recover. It doesn’t take long before the cost of their medical care can exceed workers’ compensation limits.
Our Tennessee injury lawyers will thoroughly investigate potential third-party claims to help you get the financial assistance you need and deserve if you’ve been hurt on the job. Your recovery may include compensation for past and future medical expenses, lost income, out-of-pocket costs, physical pain, emotional suffering, and other accident-related damages.
Paramedics Are at Higher Risk for On-The-Job Injuries
Due to the grueling nature of their work, medical first responders are at increased risk of getting hurt while at work. At GriffithLaw, our knowledgeable, experienced attorneys help plaintiffs identify third -parties who could be responsible under Tennessee law for picking up the additional expenses not covered by workers’ compensation. There are a variety of different scenarios in which a medical first responder could be injured on the job, which could lead to a third party being held responsible.
Some of the activities required of EMTs that put them in danger include:
- Lifting patients and equipment
- Treating patients with infections or bloodborne diseases
- Handling hazardous chemicals and bodily fluids
- Assisting in the emergency transport of patients in both air and ground vehicles
- Dealing with potentially combative individuals
- Responding to dangerous locations
Additionally, EMTs may be injured and have third-party lawsuits because of:
Toxin Exposures
Chemicals, drugs, radiation, and other harmful exposures can cause lung damage, chemical burns, and even lead to cancer or infertility.
Personal Vehicle Accidents
If a driver in a personal vehicle is driving carelessly and runs into an ambulance or hits first responders who are assisting accident victims, the resulting injuries could be substantial.
Commercial Vehicle Accidents
If the scenario listed above were to involve a tractor-trailer or other large truck, the injuries to the EMT could be even more devastating.
Animal Collisions
The occupants of an ambulance could be injured if it were to collide with wandering animals.
Dog Bites
Paramedics sometimes respond to dangerous situations, which may include a private home where pets are not contained and a dog bite could result.
Slips and Falls
Unfortunately, the work of a medical first responder sometimes takes them into dangerous buildings that do not meet safety codes, that are not well-lit, that are falling apart, or where they are assaulted. Slip and fall injuries are often the result.
Aviation Accidents
Air ambulances can sometimes crash while transporting patients and EMTs to the hospital due to human errors or poor maintenance.
How Can Injured EMTs Afford a Lawyer?
At GriffithLaw, we don’t believe that inability to pay should prevent first responders from getting the compensation they deserve. For that reason, we provide a free initial consultation to help prospective clients quickly determine if they might have a case. We do not accept payment unless our client receives a settlement. If you do not win your case, you are only responsible for reimbursing our firm for any upfront costs we had to pay to pursue your claim, such as filing fees.
How a Lawyer Can Help
When you are injured, the last thing you should worry about is your legal case. While you focus on your recovery, the legal team at GriffithLaw can help you just like we have many other victims of personal injury accidents:
- Knowing the ins and outs of Tennessee personal injury law
- Collecting evidence, including photo and video footage
- Photographing the scene of the accident
- Filing paperwork
- Gathering eyewitness testimony
- Obtaining police reports
- Reviewing medical records
- Helping you prepare for deposition
- Estimating your lost income
- Ensuring you don’t offer a settlement that is too low
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Finding expert witnesses to support your case
- Advising you against mistakes that could damage your case
- Representing you in court if necessary
We will identify the right defendants and insurance companies and fight for your fair recovery.
