Early retirement and workers’ compensation are the likely needs of a Milwaukee deputy according to recent reports. Critically injured after a police chase, the emotional testimony of the injured officer may have played a role in the judge’s decision to impose jail time on the defendant involved. The court’s determination of guilt and a prison term for the person who caused the workplace injury may add sound information to a workers’ compensation benefits request.

Records show the man pleaded guilty last month to charges that included operating while intoxicated causing injury, eluding police and reckless endangerment – his third drunken driving offense. Struggling with alcoholism, the man told the court he needed punishment and help.

It’s reported that during the seven-mile police chase, the drunk driver’s vehicle reached speeds of 100 mph. It hit a barricade and careened into the officer’s squad car. Severely injured, the deputy hasn’t been able to work since the crash. Based on physical pain, anxiety and depression that reportedly continue to plague the work accident victim, he is seeking workers’ compensation benefits that can provide income to live and cover medical and other expenses.

A prison sentence of 9.5 years, and the apology given to his victim by the defendant, may or may not help alleviate some of the psychological issues he suffers. Effective presentation of the trauma aftereffects that likely will necessitate an early end to the officer’s career can help with his workers’ compensation claim. When someone is seeking benefits, a more secure future, both financially and emotionally, may be possible through strong advocacy that is supported by a personalized approach.

Source: 
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “Wisconsin man gets 9.5 years in drunk driving crash, third drunk driving incident” Jul. 28, 2014