Long Island First Responders Injury Lawyer
First responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical services providers, are often placed in dangerous situations to protect and serve the public. While the risks of the job are well known, that doesn’t mean that first responders are without legal recourse when injured due to someone else’s negligence. At Jacobson Law, we focus on helping first responders pursue third-party liability claims when injured in the line of duty by the reckless or careless actions of others. Our experienced Long Island first responder injury lawyers have developed special expertise representing workers with badges downstate; we understand your unique situation and what you have to deal with on the job. Contact our Long Island offices or arrange an appointment in Manhattan for help with a personal injury claim in New York City.
Third-Party Liability for First Responders
When first responders are injured on the job, workers’ compensation may cover their medical bills and two-thirds of their lost wages. However, if the injury was caused by the negligence of a third party—a person or entity not associated with their employer—additional compensation may be available through a personal injury claim.
These third-party liability claims are crucial in securing compensation beyond the limited benefits of workers’ compensation. This can include damages for pain and suffering, full wage replacement, and other losses that are not typically covered by workers’ compensation.
Due to the nature of their work, first responders are frequently put in harm’s way while responding to emergencies. Unfortunately, this also increases their exposure to third-party negligence. Some of the most common scenarios that lead to third-party liability claims for injured first responders include motor vehicle accidents and falls on dangerous premises.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Traffic accidents are one of the leading causes of injury for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and EMS workers. First responders are often struck by negligent drivers while attending to accident scenes or assisting stranded motorists on the side of the road. In many cases, drivers fail to follow New York’s “Move Over Law,” which requires motorists to slow down and move over when approaching an emergency vehicle on the side of the road.
Dangerous Premises
First responders frequently enter dangerous premises when responding to emergencies. These premises might include homes or businesses with unsafe conditions, such as broken stairs, wet floors, or unsecured animals. If the property owner’s negligence contributed to the hazardous condition, the injured first responder may have grounds for a premises liability claim.
New York’s Firefighter and Police Officer Rule
It’s important to understand that New York law includes what’s known as the “firefighter and police officer rule,” which can limit the ability of first responders to file a lawsuit for injuries sustained in the course of their duties. However, exceptions exist, especially in cases involving third-party negligence. If a third party’s negligence goes beyond the usual risks of the job, such as a driver violating traffic laws or a property owner failing to address a known hazard, the injured responder may still be able to pursue a claim.
Pursuing Compensation for First Responders in New York
At Jacobson Law, we have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by first responders, and we are dedicated to holding negligent third parties accountable when their actions result in injury. We help injured first responders pursue claims for the full range of personal injury damages, including:
- Medical expenses and ongoing care
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or disfigurement
- Emotional distress
By filing a third-party liability claim, first responders can seek the full compensation they deserve for the injuries they’ve sustained, ensuring that their recovery is not limited by the restrictions of workers’ compensation.
Why Choose Jacobson Law for Your Third-Party Liability Claim?
Jacobson Law has extensive experience representing injured first responders in downstate New York. We understand the challenges faced by police officers, firefighters, and EMS workers in the field, and we are committed to fighting for their rights when they are harmed due to someone else’s negligence.
Our firm will thoroughly investigate your case, gathering evidence from the accident scene, speaking with witnesses, and collaborating with medical and industry experts to build a strong claim. We know how to handle insurance companies and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you need to recover fully and return to duty, or rebuild your life if your injuries prevent you from continuing your work.
We are trial attorneys who work every case as if it will go to trial, and we routinely try cases as well. Experience teaches us that putting your case on a litigation footing is the best way to recover maximum compensation, whether it comes in the form of an out-of-court settlement or jury verdict at trial.
Contact Jacobson Law Today
If you are a first responder who has been injured due to the negligence of a third party, don’t try to navigate the legal system alone. Contact Jacobson Law today by calling 631-661-2030 to schedule a free consultation. We will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the necessary steps to pursue the compensation you deserve.
At Jacobson Law, our Long Island injury lawyers are proud to stand with New York’s first responders in their time of need.
