If you’ve been injured at work, it’s important to understand your rights and the benefits available under workers’ compensation laws. A Des Plaines workers’ compensation lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. Our personal injury law firm has decades of experience helping injured workers and is ready to assist you.
What Are Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
According to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305, et al.), the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) manages the Illinois workers’ compensation system, requiring nearly all employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance to provide financial support and medical benefits for workers with work-related injuries or illness. Union workers and non-union employees are eligible under the no-fault system.
It ensures injured workers recover compensation without needing to prove fault.
The benefits include:
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD) provides wage replacement and medical care for workers temporarily unable to work.
- Temporary Partial Disability (TPD) assists injured workers returning to work with reduced earnings.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) provides benefits to workers with permanent impairments.
- Permanent Total Disability (PTD) benefits provide lifetime financial support for permanent disability.
- Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits may help workers retrain and access programs when they can’t return to their old job.
- Death benefits offer financial support and cover funeral expenses for dependents of workers who die from workplace injuries or illnesses.
Why Can Workers’ Compensation Cases Be Denied?
Under Illinois workers’ compensation law, worker’s comp benefits can be denied by the employer’s insurance company when there is:
- A failure to report the injury or illness in a timely manner
- A lack of evidence or documentation supporting the claim
- Preexisting conditions that may have contributed to the injury or illness
- An injury that occurred outside of work hours or while engaging in activities not related to work
Common Types of Workplace Accidents in Des Plaines
Workers’ compensation claims often result from workplace accidents and injuries, such as:
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Overexertion or repetitive stress injuries
- Machinery malfunctions or equipment failures
- Exposure to hazardous substances or chemicals
- Vehicle accidents while on the job
Most Common Workplace Injuries
Some of the more common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Sprains and strains
- Burns
- Repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Back, spine, and neck injuries
- Head trauma and brain injuries
What to Do After a Workplace Accident in Des Plaines
If you have been injured in a workplace accident and need to receive disability benefits:
- Report the incident to your employer right away; they must notify their workers’ compensation insurance carrier.
- Get medical care for your injuries and follow the doctor’s instructions.
- Keep track of all your medical bills and any work you miss because of the injury.
- Talk to workers’ compensation lawyers who can help you with your claim and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
Why Do I Need a Des Plaines Workers’ Comp Attorney?
A dedicated workers’ compensation lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to seek maximum compensation for you, make sure your bills for medical treatment are paid, and ensure your checks don’t stop without warning.
An IL workers’ compensation attorney can also handle employer disputes or complications that arise during the workers’ compensation process.
What Is a Third-Party Lawsuit in a Workers’ Compensation Case?
In some workers’ compensation cases, an injured worker can file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party if their negligence caused the workplace injury. These lawsuits can provide additional compensation beyond what Illinois workers’ compensation covers, such as pain and suffering.
For example, if a worker is hurt in a car accident while on the job, they may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim.
Contact a Des Plaines Workers’ Comp Attorney Today
Our personal injury lawyers have a proven track record of successfully representing injured employees in Des Plaines and across Illinois. With thorough knowledge of Illinois workers’ compensation laws, we are dedicated to securing the benefits you rightfully deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700