In 2020, Chicago, Illinois, recorded around 106,900 occupational injuries, although most were nonfatal. Being injured at the workplace entitles you to compensation from the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission in Chicago.
However, these compensation laws in Chicago, Illinois, can be confusing. That’s why it’s crucial that you know your rights as a worker and what benefits you can receive if something happens on the job.
A Chicago workers compensation attorney will ensure you get the medical treatment and financial support that you need to recover from an injury while still being able to take care of yourself and your family. How can they help you, and what other things should you know about this topic? Find out.
What should you do after an injury?
When you are injured at work, it can be challenging to know what to do next. To begin with, you should contact your employer immediately and also your attorney. Your employer will file the claims form called Form 45 and determine if you are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. If there is a dispute about your claim, hiring an attorney specializing in workplace injuries in Chicago may be a good idea.
Is Illinois a fault-free state?
Illinois is a fault-free state, meaning you are entitled to compensation in Chicago regardless of whose fault or negligence caused the injury. You could claim compensation if you received an occupational injury at the workplace.
How can an attorney help you?
An experienced attorney can help ensure that all your legal rights are protected during this time so that no detail goes unnoticed by an insurance company or its lawyers. Your lawyer can also help determine whether your injuries qualify for medical treatment through workers’ comp and which doctors are covered by insurance plans.
You can also ask them how much compensation may be available from both parties responsible for causing injuries at work, such as employers, or third parties, such as contractors working on site (including subcontractors hired by them).
Your attorney will also ensure that you follow the statute of limitations in Chicago for filing your claims. In Chicago and Illinois, the time limit is three years from the accident (in case of no compensation) and two years (from the date you last received your medical bill).
Workers comp vs. Insurance difference
The workers’ compensation law is different from other insurance laws. The most crucial distinction is that most states require employers to carry compensation insurance but not other types of insurance. If an employee receives an injury at their workplace, they can file a claim with their employer and not be required to go through any other steps after receiving medical care.
Is it mandatory to have compensation insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory. In Illinois and the city of Chicago, workers’ compensation insurance is required for every employer with at least one employee and contractor. Your employer could face fines and other legal penalties if they don’t have this coverage.
You should hire a Chicago workers’ compensation attorneyto help you with the claims process and win a settlement on your behalf. They will play a crucial role in ensuring that you receive compensation proportionate to your injury at the workplace.
