If you’ve been injured on the job in South Shore Chicago, it’s crucial to consult a skilled South Shore workers’ compensation lawyer. Workplace personal injuries often can be devastating, but with legal assistance from our experienced personal injury attorneys at The Kryder Law Group, LLC, you may secure the compensation you deserve.
What Is Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
According to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305, et al.), workers’ compensation is a no-fault insurance that provides benefits for employees injured or made ill by job duties. It covers medical bills, lost wages, and death benefits for dependents. The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) administers the program and handles disputes between employees and employers.
Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
All Illinois, all employees can receive benefits for work-related injuries or illnesses, regardless of fault. However, independent contractors and seasonal or temporary workers might not qualify. Also, workplace injuries from intoxication or policy violations could disqualify a worker from benefits.
What Are Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Benefits to cover lost wages and medical expenses include:
Temporary Total Disability Benefits
Wage support until return to work or medical improvement.
Temporary Partial Disability
Wage gaps for reduced work hours.
Permanent Partial Disability
For those with irreparable impairments.
Permanent Total Disability
Ongoing benefits for lifelong disabilities.
Death Benefits
Support for dependents of deceased workers. This is not a wrongful death action.
Why Can Workers’ Compensation Cases be Denied?
Workers’ compensation claims can be denied for several reasons, including insufficient medical evidence, inconsistencies in reports, self-inflicted injuries, horseplay, intoxication, injuries that occur outside job duties, or administrative errors like missed deadlines and incomplete paperwork.
Common Injuries from Workplace Accidents
Some common workplace injuries from 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 South Shore Chicago
An injured or sickened worker should:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Report the accident to your employer immediately.
- Your employer will file the claim with their workers’ compensation insurance company.
- Document all injuries and treatment received.
- Keep track of any time missed from work due to the injury or illness.
- Consult with an experienced South Shore workers’ compensation attorney for legal representation.
Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer for a South Shore Chicago Workers’ Comp Claim?
While you don’t need a lawyer for a workers’ compensation claim, South Shore workers’ compensation attorneys can provide valuable assistance. They help you navigate the legal system, maximize your benefits, and ensure your payments continue uninterrupted. If your claim is denied, they can support your appeal and pursue additional compensation through settlement of a third-party lawsuit.
When Is a Third-Party Accountable in a Workers’ Compensation Case?
Individuals injured in workplace accidents can pursue a third-party claim if the liable party is NOT their employer. Unlike workers’ compensation, this personal injury claim allows for recovery of non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. It offers additional financial compensation for severe injuries or illnesses resulting from another person’s negligence.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
If you’re injured at work—for example, injuries from job-related car accidents—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 fair compensation.
Free Initial Consultation
If you’ve been injured at work, get in touch with our personal injury law firm for a free consultation. Let our legal team review your case, outline your legal options, and guide you through every step of the process.
(312) 223-1700