Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois are available to injured employees, regardless of their fault in the workplace accident. These claim benefits are provided through the employer’s insurance, but it’s up to the injured employee to file a claim. 

Seeking a workers’ compensation claim is often the only way to manage medical expenses and living costs. Despite Illinois’ no-fault system, navigating claims can be overwhelming. Therefore, hiring an experienced workers’ compensation attorney ensures you receive financial benefits from your employer’s insurance company or any other negligent party.

If you have been injured at your workplace, let us fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with an Illinois workers’ compensation lawyer.

Statistics on Illinois Workplace Accident Cases 

According to Forbes Advisor, Illinois saw 112,500 nonfatal workplace injuries reported by private industry employers in 2022. 

Out of these, 73,500 were DART cases, indicating a rate of 1.8 per 100 employees. DART incidents involve missed work, job restrictions, or transfers.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 21,000 cases of injuries and illnesses in the state and local government sector in Illinois in 2022, with a rate of 4.2 cases per 100 full-time workers.

Illinois experienced 75 fatal work injuries from transportation incidents, which represented 42% of all workplace fatalities in the state. Exposure to harmful substances or environments resulted in 30 fatalities.

The private transportation and warehousing sector experienced the highest number of fatalities in Illinois, totaling 41, consistent with the previous year.

The transportation and material moving occupational group recorded the highest number of workplace fatalities in the state, with 56 deaths.

Men made up 94% of work-related fatalities in Illinois, and white non-Hispanics comprised 68% of workplace deaths.

Of the 177 fatal work injuries in Illinois, 75% were wage and salary workers.

According to data from the National Council on Compensation Insurance (NCCI), motor vehicle crashes were the costliest cause of lost-time workers’ compensation claims, averaging $89,152 per claim in 2020 and 2021.

Amputations were the costliest nature of the injury, averaging $126,033 per claim during the same period.

Claims involving head or central nervous system injuries averaged $94,285 per claim in 2020 and 2021, making them the most expensive in terms of lost-time workers’ compensation claims.

What is a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois? 

Workers’ compensation claim is an insurance program that provides benefits for employees who are injured or become ill due to work-related duties. Typically, workers’ compensation benefits cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. In Illinois, workers’ compensation benefits are guaranteed by law.

Illinois established its workers’ compensation system in 1912, ensuring injured workers receive financial support without proving employer negligence. In return, employers are protected from personal injury lawsuits related to workplace injuries.

However, there are exceptions to a workers’ compensation claim:

Illinois workers’ compensation lawyers can provide invaluable guidance in navigating through the claims process, helping you understand your rights and ensuring you receive all the benefits you are entitled to. 

What Types of Work Injuries Are Covered by Illinois Workers’ Compensation?

Illinois workers’ compensation claim covers a variety of work-related injuries across numerous industries. Data from the Illinois Department of Public Health reveals that employees face a wide range of injuries each year, from minor to severe and even fatal.

Common injuries for which injured workers can receive financial compensation include: 

These injuries can affect any part of the body, from head to toe, and occur in industries such as transportation, warehousing, agriculture, and construction.

Surprisingly, office settings also pose risks, such as repetitive stress injuries or toxic chemical exposure, which are also covered under Illinois workers’ compensation laws. In the case of fatal injuries, the worker’s family can recover financial compensation through the Illinois workers’ compensation claim.

Experienced Illinois workers’ compensation attorneys can help you file a claim and secure the benefits you deserve.

When Should I Report a Work Injury in Illinois?

Notify your employer of a work injury immediately to protect your right to receive benefits. Delaying notification could risk your ability to claim workers’ compensation benefits. You can report the injury orally or in writing, and it’s recommended to file a formal claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, inform a supervisor, such as a boss or foreman, within 45 days of the injury. If you fail to report the injury within this timeframe, your employer may dispute or deny your claim, potentially leading to a loss of entitled benefits. Consult an Illinois workers’ compensation attorney to report a work-related injury within the dictated timeline. 

Steps to Take After a Work Injury in Illinois

Taking the right steps after a work injury in Illinois is crucial for securing your right to workers’ compensation benefits. Immediate action can make the difference between receiving full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages or missing out on the support you need. Failing to follow these steps may put your claim at risk, leading to potential denials or delays in receiving benefits according to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. 

Here’s what you should do after a work injury in Illinois:

Taking these steps not only protects your health and well-being but also ensures you receive the maximum workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to.

What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available in Illinois?

Injured workers are protected under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, which offers various types of benefits to help them recover and return to work:

Medical Care: Workers injured on the job have the right to necessary medical treatment, including doctor visits, hospitalization, surgery, medications, and physical therapy. These expenses are covered, with no out-of-pocket costs.

Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Workers unable to work during recovery can receive TTD benefits. Typically, this is two-thirds (66.67%) of their average weekly wage, within certain limits, for the disability period.

Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Workers able to return to work with limited capacity may qualify for TPD benefits, which provide two-thirds of the wage difference from before and after the injury.

Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Those with permanent impairments but some work capacity may qualify for PPD benefits under Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. The amount in permanent partial disability benefits varies based on the type and severity of the impairment.

Permanent Total Disability (PTD): Workers who are completely disabled and cannot engage in any employment may receive PTD benefits, usually two-thirds of their average weekly wage for life.

Vocational Training: Injured workers unable to resume their previous jobs may receive vocational rehabilitation to retrain for a new role.

Death Benefits: If a work-related injury or illness results in death, dependents may receive death benefits for funeral costs and ongoing financial support.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: In cases where employers or insurers unjustly delay or deny benefits, injured workers may receive penalties and interest as compensation.

How to Establish Your Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois

To prove your Illinois workers’ compensation claim, you must provide evidence of your eligibility for benefits. Here’s what you need to demonstrate in workers’ compensation cases:

Along with proving these elements, injured workers must ensure that the employer receives timely notice of the accident or exposure. Skilled workers’ compensation lawyers in Illinois will demonstrate the grounds of your workplace accident claim and help you seek maximum financial recovery. 

How Lawyers at the Injury Lawyer Team Help Receive Maximum Claim Benefits 

If you have been injured on the job in Illinois, a workers’ compensation attorney can help you receive the maximum benefits you deserve. They will guide you through the no-fault system, ensuring your workers’ compensation claim is properly filed with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.

The Injury Lawyer Team provides knowledgeable workers’ compensation lawyers who will help you collect all entitled benefits and request an immediate hearing if there are delays. They gather essential evidence, respond to challenges, and fiercely advocate in negotiations and proceedings. With their expertise, you can secure the largest settlement or award possible, protecting your future.

All our attorneys accept workers’ compensation cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning our clients don’t have to pay legal fees until we resolve their case through negotiation or litigation. 

Hire an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today 

If you have suffered a workplace injury in Illinois, the Injury Lawyer Team, sponsored by Rosenfeld Law Offices, workers’ compensation lawyers are ready to support your recovery. We specialize in securing benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, disability, and vocational retraining. 

If you or a loved one have faced injury or loss on the job in Illinois, you deserve justice and maximum compensation. Our experienced work injury attorneys will stand by your side to protect your rights during this challenging period.

Contact our legal team today at (888) 424-5757 to schedule a free consultation with experienced workers’ compensation attorneys. All confidential or sensitive information injured workers share with us remains private through an attorney-client relationship.