Myrtle Beach Firefighter Work Injury Lawyer

Myrtle Beach Firefighter Work Injury Attorney

Firefighting is a difficult job and can often require immense physical and mental strength, bravery, and quick problem-solving. Firefighters in Myrtle Beach place their lives on the line on a daily basis, running into fiery buildings to battle the flames and saving people and animals from emergency situations. Unfortunately, this high-risk job can lead to serious injuries, but a Myrtle Beach firefighter work injury lawyer can help.

Whether you are a firefighter, it is important to understand your rights and legal options under the workers’ compensation system in South Carolina. At Axelrod & Associates, P.A., our attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience helping those injured on the job get the benefits they need to recover from their injuries. We are committed to assisting with all firefighter work comp cases so that injured firefighters can get the benefits they deserve.

Common Injuries Suffered by Firefighters in Myrtle Beach

The job of a firefighter is one of the most dangerous and high-risk modes of employment. The injuries and illnesses that can occur while fighting fires and rescuing victims can leave individuals suffering for years following the accident or injury. Common injuries and illnesses that firefighters suffer in Myrtle Beach include the following:

Burns

One of the most common injuries that firefighters suffer from is burns. These can take the form of thermal, electrical, or chemical burns and can occur from explosions or simply from the nature of the job itself. Burn injuries can lead to deep tissue or bone damage and usually will require extensive treatment and lengthy recovery times, leaving the victim dealing with permanent scars and disfigurement.

Broken Bones

In a fire, the burning structure might collapse, impacting firefighters and causing broken bones and fractures. Firefighters can also fall from ladders or other great heights, resulting in similar injuries. These breaks can cause victims to suffer severe pain, weakness in their limbs, and immobility issues even after the break has healed.

Internal Organ Damage

When a firefighter is hit by a falling structure, they might suffer internal organ damage to their spleen, kidneys, liver, or bowels. They might also suffer a punctured lung if their ribs crack or break due to the impact. Internal organ damage can have lasting effects on victims.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Though firefighters are required to wear helmets when fighting fires, they may still suffer a blow to the head due to a falling beam or other parts of a collapsing structure. These blows can result in traumatic brain injuries, causing impaired balance, slurred speech, trouble with memory or concentration, seizures, and issues with coordination.

Cancers

Firefighters often come into contact with hazardous chemicals or toxins, such as asbestos or other burning materials. Inhaling these substances or the smoke from a fire can lead to several long-term health conditions, including respiratory diseases and certain cancers, like lung cancer.

Lacerations

Firefighters run the risk of suffering lacerations from sharp objects present in a burning structure or during another emergency situation.

Overexertion Injuries

Firefighters are often required to carry heavy objects, such as fire hoses, and victims who are unable to move. This overexertion can cause slipped discs, hernias, and sprains or strains to their ligaments or muscles.

If you have suffered any of these injuries while working as a firefighter, you have the right to file for workers’ comp, and an attorney from Axelrod & Associates, P.A. can help.

Steps To Take After an Injury

If you are injured in the line of duty as a firefighter in Myrtle Beach, there are certain actions you should take to protect your rights to workers’ compensation benefits.

• Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries appear minor.
• Report the injury to your employer within 90 days of the accident.
• File your workers’ compensation claim through your employer.
• Follow the medical advice you are given by your doctors and physicians, attend all therapy appointments, and take prescribed medication, as this can impact the success of your workers’ comp claim.
• Consult an attorney who can assist you if you run into any challenges, such as having your initial claim denied or being given benefits that do not meet the needs of your injury.

FAQs About Myrtle Beach, SC Firefighter Work Injury Laws

How Much Does a Workers’ Comp Attorney Charge?

It can prove challenging to offer an exact number for how much a workers’ compensation attorney might charge for their services in Myrtle Beach, as each attorney is different, and so is each case. There are some common factors that can impact the costs involved in all cases, including the complexity and duration of the case and the experience of your attorney.

Can I File a Third-Party Claim for a Firefighter Injury?

In certain cases, a third party may be liable for your injury, such as a negligent property owner or an equipment designer or manufacturer. Your lawyer from Axelrod & Associates, P.A. can review your case and identify any potential third parties involved in your case, as this can add to the overall value of your claim and include damages such as pain and suffering, which is not covered by workers’ compensation.

What Are Some Mistakes to Avoid in a Workers’ Comp Claim?

There are a handful of mistakes you should avoid making during your workers’ compensation claim, as making any mistake can harm your ability to receive benefits altogether or impact the benefits you receive. Mistakes to avoid include failing to report your injuries, failing to seek necessary medical care, and failing to work with an attorney.

Can I Get Workers’ Comp for a Psychological Injury?

Most firefighters are not only exposed to physical injuries and danger but also suffer emotional and psychological harm due to the things they deal with and witness on the job. Regular exposure to emergency situations can leave firefighters suffering from PTSD, which can lead to nightmares, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.

Speak With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today

Managing a workers’ compensation claim on your own can be a daunting task, especially as you heal and recover from your injuries. Turn to Axelrod & Associates, P.A. to guide you through the process with advocacy, respect, and compassion. Contact our offices to schedule an initial consultation with our team and learn more about our services.