Volunteer firefighters have one of the most dangerous jobs and put their lives on the line for the general public each time they are on a call. As a result, the chances that they will become injured or ill as a result of their job are high. Many volunteer firefighters wonder whether they are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits in the state of New York. Luckily, they are protected under the Volunteer Firefighters’ Benefits Law and can obtain workers’ compensation benefits if they are injured as an active volunteer member of a fire company in New York State. However, it is important to note that a volunteer firefighter forfeits his or her rights to receiving benefits under this law if they become injured solely because they either intend to injure themselves or someone else OR that they became injured as a result of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on the job.
Another important factor to keep in mind is that firefighters, surviving spouses, or dependents of firefighters who were injured or became ill as a result of working at the World Trade Center may also be eligible for benefits.
If you are injured as a volunteer firefighter, it is important that you file the Volunteer Firefighter’s Claim for Benefits form. You also must notify the town or secretary of the fire district of your injury within 90 days of the accident.
If you have questions about your rights as a volunteer firefighter, contact our firm today.
The Law Offices of George Poulos is an experienced Workers’ Compensation, personal injury, and Social Security Disability law firm with offices in Queens and the Bronx. If you require strong legal representation, contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation.
