Illinois workers injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, but the system can be complex. An experienced Skokie workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the process and secure the benefits you deserve. Our personal injury law firm has decades of experience handling workers’ compensation cases, and we can help you too.
What Are Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
The Illinois workers’ compensation system, managed by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305, et al.), requires nearly all employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance. This ensures financial and medical support for employees with work-related injuries or illnesses. As a no-fault system, it covers both union and non-union workers, protecting Illinois employees.
It allows injured workers to receive compensation without having to establish fault.
The benefits include:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) replaces wages and covers medical care for workers temporarily unable to work.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) helps injured workers with reduced earnings after returning to work.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) supports workers with permanent impairments.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) provides lifetime financial support for permanent disabilities.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits help workers retrain or access programs if they can’t return to their jobs.
- Death benefits offer financial support and funeral expense coverage for dependents of workers who died from workplace injuries or illnesses.
Why Can Workers’ Compensation Cases Be Denied?
Under Illinois workers’ compensation law, a claim can be denied if:
- The injury or illness isn’t reported on time
- There’s insufficient evidence or documentation
- Preexisting conditions contributed to the issue
- The injury happened outside work or during non-work activities
Common Types of Workplace Accidents in Skokie, IL
Common workplace injuries and accidents include:
- Slips and falls
- Burns or chemical exposure
- Repetitive motion injuries
- Machinery-related injuries
- Overexertion-related injuries
Most Common Workplace Injuries
Common on the job injuries include:
- Fractures (broken bones)
- Sprains and strains
- Burns
- Repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
- Back, spinal, and neck injuries
- Head trauma and brain injuries
What to Do After a Workplace Accident in Skokie
If you’ve been injured at work:
- Report the incident to your employer, who will notify their workers’ compensation insurer.
- Get medical care and follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
- Keep records of medical expenses and missed work.
- Consult experienced Skokie lawyers to help you file a workers’ compensation claim and get fair compensation.
Why Do I Need a Skokie Workers’ Comp Attorney?
A skilled workers’ compensation attorney can advocate on your behalf to secure the maximum compensation you deserve, ensure your medical bills are covered, and protect you from sudden interruptions in your benefit payments.
They are also equipped to efficiently resolve any disputes or complications that may arise throughout the workers’ compensation process, providing you with peace of mind and guidance every step of the way.
What Is a Third-Party Lawsuit in a Workers’ Compensation Case?
In some workers’ compensation cases, employees can file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party responsible for their workplace injury. These claims may offer additional compensation beyond Illinois workers’ compensation, including damages for pain and suffering.
For instance, if a worker is injured in a motor vehicle accident while on the job, they may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Contact a Skokie Workers’ Comp Attorney Today
Our workers’ compensation attorneys have successfully represented injured employees in Skokie and across Illinois. We know the law and will work tirelessly for the benefits you deserve. Call for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700