Florida’s police officers, firefighters, and corrections officers face the potential for trauma on a daily basis that most people will never experience. The law now allows for first responder benefits in Florida when those events lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The Heart Bill lawyers at Bichler & Longo, PLLC is dedicated to protecting those who protect and serve, and we want you to have all the support you need as you face this difficult situation.
First responders see and hear things while on the job that stay with them. The emotional impact can be life-altering, even when there are no physical injuries.
Florida allows for PTSD benefits for first responders to fall within workers’ compensation when the condition is diagnosed as work related. “Mental and nervous injuries” have been covered for medical treatment since 2007, but the law has expanded. Now, if a doctor or psychiatrist diagnoses PTSD connected to a qualifying event on the job, wage loss may also be covered. This change reflects years of advocacy recognizing that trauma truly affects the body and mind.
If you are struggling, you should know that treatment, counseling, and medication are all covered when PTSD is part of a valid work-related claim. Our firm speaks with first responders every day who worry about stigma, job security, or complicated rules. We can help determine if your PTSD is clearly connected to the job and what the next best option is.
Many first responders want to know what support they can receive once they have a diagnosis. PTSD benefits are focused on helping Florida first responders recover while staying financially stable. Covered benefits include:
Each case is unique and these benefits are not automatic. Wage loss depends on whether your PTSD has placed you in a position of temporary disability. It is important to speak with a firm that handles these claims every day.
The simple answer is yes. Florida workers’ compensation law now recognizes PTSD coverage for first responders who meet the statutory criteria, but several conditions must be met. First, you must receive a diagnosis from a licensed medical doctor or psychiatrist, and second, the diagnosis must connect your PTSD to a qualifying work event.
Many first responders worry that their experiences will not justify PTSD, but this is one of the biggest misconceptions. The law outlines specific triggering events. For example, you may fall within the statute if you respond to violent scenes, traumatic accidents, fatalities, or catastrophic injuries.
Deadlines to file a PTSD claim for Florida first responders are strict, and they depend on several complicated factors. There are two specific deadlines to know:
These timelines are often misunderstood, so we strongly encourage any first responder who is considering a claim to contact our firm as soon as possible.
When trauma causes emotional strain, you need to have strong advocates on your side. First responder PTSD benefits in Florida are meant to give you the financial support you need while you deal with an intense medical condition. Our firm works only with first responders, and we understand both the demands of your job and the confusion that follows a PTSD diagnosis. If you have questions, concerns, or need to begin a claim, reach out to Bichler & Longo, PLLC.