Understanding your workers compensation rights as an Illinois resident will give you a better idea of what you can do to protect yourself and gain deserved benefits and compensation if a work-related injury were to occur. Below, our video gives an overview of the workers comp claim process, and we’ve compiled a general overview of your rights under Illinois workers compensation laws to help further your understanding of what it takes to have a case if you’ve been injured on the job or as a result of the work that you do.
In order to file a workers compensation claim in Illinois, it's important that you inform your employer of your injury or illness within 30 days of the incident. Although this notification may be given orally, it's usually best to prepare written documentation to ensure validity and proof. Among this documentation, you should include a description of the incident, your personal information, and a detailed account of the date, time, and place that the accident occurred. The more information you have regarding the incident and the resulting injury, the better.
Under the Illinois Workers Compensation Act, a work accident doesn't have to be the only or even the principle cause of injury in order for an individual to qualify for workers compensation benefits. For example, if an individual exacerbates an existing injury or pre-existing condition as the result of a work-related injury, that individual is entitled to benefits through workers compensation. Among these benefits include customary and reasonable medical treatment, Temporary Total Disability, and Permanent Partial compensation.
Although Illinois law mandates that your employer make payments due to your work-related injury or illness, there's a strong chance that they're going to try and pay the lowest amount possible. If you've been injured on the job, it's important that you get the compensation and benefits that you deserve, rather than what's easiest or most convenient for your employer or your employer's insurance carrier. In order to make sure that you're getting the compensation you deserve for your injury, it's important that you reach out to a dependable workers compensation attorney that will defend your case and help you obtain what you rightfully deserve.
The experienced attorneys at Lipkin & Apter have helped hundreds of clients receive benefits and compensation for their work-related injuries. If you think you may have a case regarding a work-related accident, please contact the workers compensation attorneys at Lipkin and Apter!