JENKINTOWN PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEYS

There is no doubt that Philadelphia area police officers have dangerous jobs. The men and women who keep our city safe deal with dangerous, unstable, and armed individuals. So, you may be surprised to learn that the motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of police officer injuries and deaths.

Police officers spend a lot of time in their vehicles. Bensalem police officer Jennifer Stahl was in her vehicle last November when a drunk driver ran a red light and crashed into her squad car.  Earlier that month, two Logan officers were injured while responding to an emergency call. In October, a Bethlehem woman was sentenced for the DWI crash that killed a Hamilton Township officer on Christmas Eve 2012.

When a police officer is injured in a motor vehicle accident, there are three ways that the officer can be compensated for injuries:

• Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation
• His own motor vehicle insurance
• A civil lawsuit

Workers’ Compensation

When an officer is injured at work, he is eligible to file a Pennsylvania workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation will cover the officer’s medical bills and a percentage of his salary if he is unable to work. The officer may not qualify for workers’ compensation if his reckless actions caused the accident or if he was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.

Motor Vehicle Insurance

If the officer’s workers’ compensation claim is denied, he may be able to file a claim with his own auto insurance company.

Civil Lawsuit

A police officer who receives workers’ compensation may not sue his employer. However, he may file a lawsuit against any third party that is responsible for the injury because of negligence or a wrongful act. A lawsuit against a drunk or reckless driver can often provide better compensation than a workers’ compensation claim. If your lawsuit is successful, the officer will need to reimburse any money paid by your employer.

What’s the right option for you?  It will depend on the cause of the accident. Contact Mednick, Mezyk & Kredo and ask to schedule a free consultation. We’ll investigate your accident and tell you about your legal options. Call 888-807-WORK to schedule a free appointment.