When you have been injured on the job in Chicago, you may want to know what Illinois workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to. This is where a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer from our personal injury law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers stands ready to help.
Do I Need a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer?
If you have suffered a workplace injury, it is important to consult with a workers’ compensation lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected, that you receive all the benefits you are entitled to under Illinois law, and that your benefits don’t stop unexpectedly. A workers compensation claims lawyer can help you understand and navigate the legal process.
What Is the Illinois Workers’ Compensation System?
Established by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act and managed by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, the Illinois workers’ compensation system is a no-fault insurance system mandated by state law that provides benefits to employees who have been injured on the job or suffered a work-related illness. This system ensures that workers receive necessary medical treatment and compensation for lost wages due to their injuries.
Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Illinois?
In Illinois, most employees are covered under the Workers’ Compensation Act, regardless of the size of the business or the type of industry. This includes part-time, full-time, temporary, and seasonal workers. Exceptions may include independent contractors and some agricultural workers who may not have workers’ compensation cases.
What to Do After a Workplace Accident in Chicago
Some steps to take after a workplace accident include:
- Injured employees should seek medical attention immediately.
- Notify your employer about the incident as soon as possible and document all details.
- Under workers’ compensation laws, it is your employer’s legal obligation to report the incident to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.
- Gather evidence and witness statements if applicable.
- Contact a dedicated Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer to discuss your rights and the next steps, especially to review the settlement offered by the insurance company.
What Is the Difference Between a Third-Party Lawsuit and Workers’ Comp?
This is separate from workers’ comp no-fault benefits. If a negligent third party, that is NOT the employer, contributed to the accident, they can also be sued for pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. Since workers’ comp does NOT cover things like pain and suffering, this is the only way to get that kind of compensation.
Common Types of Workplace Accidents in Chicago, IL
Our workers’ compensation lawyers handle a wide range of serious workplace injuries and accidents:
- Slip and fall accidents
- Repetitive stress injuries (RSIs)
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Construction site accidents
- Machinery malfunctions
- Chemical exposure (PELs)
What Benefits Are Available Through a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
A workers’ compensation case can provide:
- Medical Benefits: All necessary and reasonable medical expenses for work-related injuries or illnesses are covered. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, medication, physical therapy, and related treatments.
- Temporary Total Disability Benefits: If your work-related injury causes you to miss more than three days of work, temporary total disability benefits (TTD) may be available. These benefits compensate for lost wages while you’re unable to work due to the injury.
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits: These benefits cover the permanent loss of function in limbs or organs due to a workplace injury. Compensation is based on the severity and impact on your ability to work.
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits: If you are permanently unable to work due to a work-related injury, permanent total disability benefits may be available.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits: These benefits offer job retraining or education if an injured worker can’t return to their previous job.
- Death Benefits: If a worker dies from a workplace injury or illness, death benefits are available for their dependents.
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Today
If you are one of the injured workers in Chicago, call The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers to discuss your workplace accident case with one of our skilled Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers.
One of the workers’ comp lawyers on our team will review your Illinois workers’ compensation claim, counsel you of your rights, and answer your questions.
(312) 223-1700