If you have been injured on the job in Englewood, Illinois, it is important to know your rights and options when it comes to workers’ compensation. The process of filing a claim and receiving benefits can be complex and confusing, but with the help of an experienced Englewood workers’ compensation lawyer, you can ensure that your rights are protected. The attorneys in our personal injury law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, have decades of experience representing victims in these cases. Contact us for a free consultation.
What Is Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
Workers’ compensation in Illinois is a type of no-fault insurance that provides benefits to employees who are injured or become ill while performing their job duties. It is designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. Workers’ compensation also provides death benefits to the dependents of injured workers whose injuries are fatal.
What Are Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Wage replacement benefits include:
Temporary Total Disability
Provides two-thirds of the average weekly wage until returning to work or reaching maximum medical improvement.
Temporary Partial Disability
Provides support for reduced work hours by covering the wage gap from pre-injury earnings to recovery wages.
Permanent Partial Disability
Involves enduring impairments that still permit some level of work.
Permanent Total Disability
Provides benefits, usually two-thirds of an employee’s average weekly wage, for those who are permanently disabled.
Are not a wrongful death claim. They provide financial support and funeral expenses to dependents of deceased workers.
Why Can Workers’ Compensation Cases be Denied?
Workers’ compensation claims might be denied for reasons like:
- insufficient medical evidence,
- discrepancies in accident reports,
- self-inflicted injuries,
- horseplay,
- intoxication,
- injuries outside job duties, or
- administrative errors like missed deadlines and incomplete paperwork.
Common Injuries from Workplace Accidents
Some common injuries from workplace injuries and accidents include:
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Fractures
- Head, back and neck injuries
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Burns and lacerations
- Occupational illnesses (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome, mesothelioma)
What to Do After a Workplace Accident in Englewood
If you’ve been injured in the workplace or become ill due to work in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, here’s what to do:
- Report the accident to your employer immediately.
- Your employer will file the claim with the employer’s insurance company.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Document all injuries and treatment received.
- Keep track of any time missed from work due to injury.
- Consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney in Englewood for legal representation.
Do I Need Personal Injury Lawyers for an Englewood-Chicago Workers’ Comp Claim?
While you are not legally required to have a lawyer for a workers’ compensation claim, it is highly recommended. An experienced Englewood personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system and ensure that your rights are protected. They can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies for compensation, and represent you in court if needed.
Why Should I Consult a Lawyer Before the Insurance Company Makes an Offer?
Consulting with workers’ compensation attorneys before accepting insurance offers is wise. Insurers might propose a low settlement that won’t fully cover your expenses and future medical bills.
When Is a Third-Party Accountable in a Workers’ Compensation Case?
Victims of workplace accidents can file a third-party claim if the responsible party IS NOT their employer. Unlike a workers’ compensation claim, this personal injury claim allows for non-economic damages like pain and suffering. It provides extra financial recovery for serious injuries or illnesses caused by another’s negligence.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
If you’re injured at work or have a work-related illness, contact our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers. We understand the system’s challenges and will strive to secure your rights for maximum compensation.
Free Initial Consultation
Injured workers can contact our personal injury law firm for a free consultation to review your workers’ compensation or personal injury case.
(312) 223-1700