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First Responders: What to Do If You Get a Non-Work Injury

As a first responder, your life is dedicated to serving and protecting others. But what happens when you’re the one who gets injured, and it’s not related to your job? Navigating the complexities of insurance, medical care and time off can be overwhelming, especially when your injury doesn’t fall under workers’ compensation. Here's what you need to know and the steps you should take if you experience a non-work-related injury.


Seek Immediate Medical Attention

First and foremost, treat your injury as seriously as you would for anyone else. Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Quick treatment not only ensures your health and safety but also creates a clear medical record that may be important later if you need to file an insurance claim or take legal action.


Understand Your Health Insurance Coverage

Since the injury is not work related, your workers’ compensation benefits won’t apply. Instead, you’ll need to rely on your health insurance to cover medical costs. Review your policy to understand what’s covered, including any co-pays, deductibles and network restrictions. If your injury requires ongoing treatment, make sure you’re aware of the limits on physical therapy, specialist visits or other long-term care needs.


Report the Injury to Your Supervisor

Even though the injury didn’t happen on the job, it’s a good idea to inform your supervisor. This is especially important if the injury could affect your ability to perform your duties or if you’ll need time off to recover. Early communication can help manage expectations and allow your employer to make necessary arrangements, such as finding temporary coverage for your shifts or finding alternative work you may be able to do if you cannot perform your full duties.


Know Your Rights Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

If your injury is serious enough that you need to take extended time off, you may be eligible for job-protected leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for serious health conditions, without risking their job. However, not all first responders may qualify, so it’s crucial to check with your HR department or a legal professional to understand your rights. If you are a member of a Union, your collective bargaining agreement may provide additional protections. So be sure to talk to your Union steward.


Consider Short-Term Disability Benefits

If your injury will keep you out of work for an extended period, you might want to look into Public Employee Disability Benefits (often called PEDA benefits) or short-term disability benefits. Unlike workers’ compensation, which covers work-related injuries, short-term disability insurance provides a portion of your salary if you’re unable to work due to a non-work-related injury. Check with your employer to see if this coverage is available through your benefits package or if you have a private policy.

Once you’re on the road to recovery, start planning for your return to work. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need to ease back into your duties gradually. Talk with your doctor about any restrictions or modifications you might need and communicate these with your employer. It’s important to prioritize your health and safety to prevent further injury.


When to Seek Legal Advice

In some cases, navigating the aftermath of a non-work-related injury can be complex, especially if there you are unable to return to work at all or if your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence. If you find yourself facing these challenges, it may be beneficial to seek legal advice. An attorney can help you understand your options and ensure that your rights are protected.

As a first responder, you’re used to putting others first. But when you’re injured off the clock, it’s essential to take care of yourself and be informed about your options. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Black & Jones Attorneys at Law. We’re here to support first responders in Rockford, IL, and beyond. Contact us today at (815) 967-9000 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.