Workers’ Compensation for First Responders in Greensboro, NC

Are you a first responder in Greensboro who got hurt or sick because of your job? You put yourself at risk to help others, but now you might need help yourself. You could be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits for your work-related injury or illness, and you should not have to figure out the claims process alone.

An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer from Ward Black Law can evaluate your specific situation, explain your legal options, and fight for the maximum benefits you are owed. Our team has helped injured workers across North Carolina for decades, and we want to help you, too.

Contact us now to arrange your free claim review. We’ll listen, answer your questions, and help you take your next steps in the workers’ compensation system.

Why Injured First Responders Should Choose Our Law Firm

Ward Black Law has served injured workers in North Carolina for over 30 years, and we know how to help first responders who are injured on the job. Our Greensboro-based team has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for clients across the state. Here’s what one woman had to say about working with us:

“They fought for things I didn’t know I needed to fight for.”—Former Client

If you work as a firefighter, police officer, or EMT, and you are dealing with a work injury or occupational illness, our legal team is ready to give your case the time and attention it deserves. We listen, we explain your options clearly, and we fight to get you what the law allows.

Our Greensboro workers’ compensation lawyers do not charge hourly or upfront. If you do not win, you do not owe us anything for our services. Our lawyers and staff care about doing the right thing for every person who calls us. We also give back to the community by tithing 10 percent of our attorney fees to nonprofits each year.

Eligibility for First Responders Filing Workers’ Compensation Claims in Greensboro

First responders in Greensboro, including firefighters, police officers, and rescue workers, could qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if they suffer injuries or illnesses related to their job. North Carolina workers’ compensation laws establish a no-fault system that covers full-time, part-time, and even volunteer first responders, as long as they were on duty or acting under official orders at the time of their injuries. The injury must occur while doing work-related tasks, during training, or when responding to emergencies.

The law also covers certain illnesses like cancer or heart attacks linked to firefighting or other high-risk duties. The injured person must report the injury to their employer as soon as possible and file a claim within specific deadlines. In some cases, retired firefighters can qualify for benefits if they develop specific cancers within 10 years of retirement.

Common Injuries and Occupational Diseases Among First Responders

First responders frequently encounter hazardous situations, operate heavy equipment, and respond to high-stress emergencies. Such conditions substantially increase the risk of injury and illness, including traumatic injuries and those that develop over time.

Common examples of injuries and occupational diseases for first responders include:

• Burns – Firefighters and rescue workers often develop burns from flames, heat, or chemicals.
• Fractures – Slips, falls, and impacts during rescues or pursuits can easily break bones.
• Hearing loss – Repeated exposure to loud sirens, tools, or explosions can damage hearing.
• Respiratory issues – Inhalation of smoke, dust, and chemicals can cause severe lung injuries.
• Heart attacks – High-stress calls and physical strain can trigger cardiac events.
• Back and joint injuries – Lifting gear or people can lead to pulled muscles or joint damage.
• Cancer – Some types of cancers are linked to occupational exposure to toxic materials.
• PTSD and trauma-related disorders – After witnessing violent deaths or serious accidents, some first responders struggle with nightmares, anxiety, and withdrawal from daily life.

Benefits Available to Injured First Responders

Workers’ compensation for first responders in North Carolina can include several types of benefits. Examples include coverage for medical treatment, such as doctor’s visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and physical therapy. If an injury keeps the first responder from working, they can receive weekly checks to replace a portion of their lost income. The amount depends on their average weekly pay before the injury and is capped at a statewide maximum.

If a worker’s injury causes long-term or permanent disability, they could receive additional disability payments. Some firefighters with job-related cancers also qualify for one-time payments of up to $74,000 and monthly checks of up to $5,000 or 75 percent of their pay. The special cancer benefits apply starting July 1, 2025, and are available to both active firefighters and those who retired within the past 10 years.

Workers’ compensation can also pay for job retraining if the injured or ill first responder cannot return to their previous job due to their condition.

Mental Health Coverage for First Responders

First responders face stressful and dangerous situations on a regular basis, which can severely affect their mental health. In North Carolina, workers’ compensation can cover mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if they are clearly linked to a specific work-related event. First responders can qualify by showing that their jobs caused the mental health condition and that the effects prevent them from working normally.

If approved, benefits may include coverage for counseling, therapy, medication, and wage replacement if the individual is unable to work. Filing a claim for a mental health injury involves the same process as that for a physical one, but it can be much harder to prove. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys can help you pursue the benefits you need if you are dealing with a mental health issue due to your work as a first responder.

Challenges in the Claims Process and How Ward Black Can Help

Filing a workers’ compensation first responder claim in North Carolina can feel overwhelming. You might deal with claim denials, undervalued benefits, or pressure to return to work too soon. The rules and requirements can be hard to follow, especially when you are hurt or sick.

Our experienced first responder lawyers can step in and protect your rights by:

• Reviewing your workplace injury or illness to see if it qualifies under North Carolina law
• Gathering medical records and job details to support your claim
• Filing the correct paperwork on time and in the proper format
• Talking with your doctors about what they need to document
• Dealing with your employer and the insurance company on your behalf
• Demanding full compensation for medical expenses, income losses, and disability
• Appealing decisions that lower or cut off your benefits
• Preparing your case for a hearing if the claim does not settle

Talk to Our Greensboro Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Today

If you work as a first responder and need help with a workers’ compensation case, contact Ward Black Law today. Your initial claim review is free, and you will not pay any legal fees unless we win for you.