Connecticut State Police Trooper Injured When He Was Struck by Car During the Course of His Work

First responders put their lives on the line everyday for the protection of the public. They do so knowing of the risks that they could face in the line of duty, but also knowing that if they are injured or killed while doing their job, they or their families have the right to file for a workers’ compensation claim. This may be the case for one Connecticut state police trooper who was injured when he was struck by a car during the course of his work.

The accident happened on a recent evening on Interstate 91. The officer had apparently pulled over and turned on his cruiser’s lights to assist a motorist with retrieving a truck bed liner that had flown off onto the highway. Another driver allegedly struck the officer and the first motorist after passing around the police car. Authorities report that the driver pulled over after the incident, and she has not impeded the investigation.

The trooper was rushed to a nearby hospital and remains in serious but stable condition. The first driver that was also allegedly hit sought treatment at another hospital but only had minor injuries. A representative of the Connecticut State Police reported that they will investigate the matter thoroughly and commended the officer for his attempt to protect the public by moving the roadway debris.

When an accident like this happens to a police officer who was in pursuit of his or her duties, he or she is entitled to file a workers’ compensation claim. Doing so could help the employee cover any lost wages, pay medical expenses or cover any other costs that might have resulted due to the incident. Here in Connecticut, it is important that first responders know all the options available to them should the unthinkable happen. Apart from likely qualifying for workers’ comp benefits, the injured trooper is entitled to pursue a claim for personal injuries against the driver whose vehicle struck him.

Source: The Courant, “Trooper Struck By Car, Injured On I-91 North In Hartford“, Nicholas Rondinone, Aug. 8, 2014