State law enforcement is there to do the dangerous jobs, provide protection and help those who need it. They are also tasked with doing certain things that might seem to be drudgery, such as directing traffic. Regardless of the officer's assignment, simply being out and in uniform carries danger. Accidents and incidents can happen that lead to injuries and fatalities. Workers' compensation benefits are useful when there is an accident, so the injured person can receive treatment and be paid while recovering. Having legal assistance to get these benefits and to maximize them is often necessary.
An accident in which a law enforcement officer was hit by a car sent him to the hospital. The accident occurred at around 11 p.m. as the officer was directing traffic. A vehicle was approaching a flashing light at an intersection when the accident occurred. The officer, 51, is a 15-year veteran of law enforcement. He joined this department four years ago. He was flown by air for treatment at the hospital and reportedly had serious injuries. He was subsequently released and is continuing to recover at home. The 28-year-old driver remained at the scene. There are charges pending and the investigation is ongoing.
No matter the kind of workplace accident that occurred, the injured worker should know that workers' compensation benefits are not absolutely guaranteed. The case might be investigated to ensure that the worker is as injured as he or she claims to be. There is often a dispute as to when the person can get back on the job, how severe the injuries are, the medical expenses, and how much treatment is needed. In some instances, the claim is even denied. When there is a disparity in how injured the person claims to be and what the insurer thinks is adequate compensation, having legal assistance to handle the case is a must.
A law enforcement officer was directing traffic when he was hit by a car and seriously hurt. Although he is recovering at home, that does not mean that he will be able to get back to work soon. He might need medical care, miss a significant amount of time at work and need help to recover and make ends meet. That is what workers' compensation is for. Should there be any dispute about his case, he must protect his interests by discussing the case with an experienced workers' compensation lawyer.