If you’ve been seriously injured at work in North Chicago, IL, understanding and navigating the complexities of workers’ compensation laws can be challenging. At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team of workers compensation lawyers is skilled in handling these serious personal injury cases.
We represent injured workers throughout North Chicago and the broader Illinois area, helping them secure the compensation they rightfully deserve. Don’t navigate the Illinois workers’ compensation system alone; get the experienced legal aid you need.
What Is Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act?
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305/) is an Illinois law designed to provide benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. It operates under a ‘no-fault’ system, meaning employees can claim regardless of who is at fault for the injury.
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission oversees the the Illinois workers compensation law— it’s enforcement and resolving disputes between employees and employers. Most employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover potential claims, aiding employees in their recovery, and securing their financial stability during trying times.
What Are Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits include:
- Medical Benefits: Covers all necessary medical treatments, surgeries, and medications required for the worker’s recovery.
- Temporary Total Disability Benefits (TTD): Compensation provided when an employee is completely unable to work temporarily due to work-related injury or illness.
- Temporary Partial Disability Benefits (TPD): Financial assistance offered when an injured employee can perform light duties on a temporary basis.
- Permanent Total Disability Benefits (PTD): Benefits provided when a worker is permanently and entirely unable to work due to a work-related injury.
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits (PPD): Compensation given when the work-related injury permanently limits the worker’s ability to work, but they can still perform some duties.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: Aids workers unable to return to their old job by providing resources for retraining and job search assistance.
- Death Benefits: Financial assistance provided to the dependents of a worker who dies from a job-related injury or illness.
- Wage Replacement: It replaces a portion of lost wages when an employee is unable to work due to a work-related injury or illness.
Common Types of Workplace Accidents in North Chicago
In North Chicago, workplace accidents vary broadly.
Construction Accidents: Construction sites are inherently hazardous workplaces that pose significant risks to workers’ safety, making construction accidents more prevalent.
Industrial Accidents: Due to heavy machinery and hazardous equipment, industrial workers are at a higher risk of suffering severe injuries.
Transportation Accidents: Vehicle-related accidents, including trucking and transportation industry incidents, can lead to serious injuries or fatalities for workers involved.
Slips, Trips, and Falls: Slips and falls are common workplace hazards that can result in various injuries ranging from minor to severe.
Repetitive Motion Injury (RMI): Repetitive motions, such as typing, lifting, and operating machinery, can lead to repetitive stress injuries over time.
Occupational Diseases: Exposure to harmful substances, such as asbestos or chemicals, can cause chronic illnesses and diseases, addressed by Illinois’ Occupational Diseases Acts (820 ILCS 310/).
Who Can Receive Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits?
Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits are extended to the dependents of workers who died from their workplace injuries. Dependent family members typically include spouses, minor children, and individuals unable to support themselves due to physical or mental limitations.
Common Injuries from Workplace Accidents
Some common injuries from on-the-job accidents include fractures, burns, lacerations, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and respiratory illnesses due to exposure to harmful substances, and repetitive stress injuries. These injuries can be debilitating and lead to significant financial burdens and medical expenses for injured employees and their families.
What to Do After a Workplace Accident in North Chicago
- Report the Incident: Immediately inform your supervisor, manager, or HR about the accident for proper documentation.
- Seek Medical Help: Get necessary medical treatment as soon as possible.
- Document Everything: Keep a record of all incident-related details and treatments.
- Contact a Lawyer: Consult an experienced workers’ compensation attorney for knowledgeable counsel.
How Long Do Injured Workers Have to Report Work-Related Injuries?
In Illinois it’s crucial to report the incident to your employer as soon as it occurs to ensure your rights are protected:
- General injuries should be reported within 45 days of the accident.
- Radiological exposure injuries should be reported within 90 days.
- Occupational diseases should be reported as soon as you discover the injury, no longer than 45 days.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Workers’ Comp Claim?
Yes, getting a lawyer on your side for a Workers’ Compensation Claim is a good idea although Illinois law does not require it. Illinois workers’ compensation lawyers know the ins and outs of the legal process and will negotiate with the insurance company for you to make sure your medical costs are covered. In addition, they’ll ensure receiving workers’ compensation benefits payments does not stop unexpectedly.
What Are Reasons Workers’ Compensation Claims Are Denied?
Workers’ compensation claims can be denied due to several reasons, including late reporting, lack of medical evidence or other critical evidence, discrepancies between the accident report and medical records, or suspicion of fraud. Employers or insurance companies might also argue that the accident did not occur at work or that the personal injury itself is not as severe as claimed. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain all relevant documents and seek legal counsel to ensure a fair claim process.
Holding Negligent Third-Parties Accountable
In cases where a negligent third party, not your employer, contributes to your workplace accident, you have the right to pursue a separate claim against them. This claim can cover damages not included in workers’ compensation, such as pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical bills. Workers’ compensation does not account for the emotional distress of work injury, thus this lawsuit is the only means to obtain compensation for such suffering.
What Is My Case Worth?
Determining the value of a workers’ compensation case involves several factors. A workers’ compensation lawyer considers the extent of your injuries, the cost of medical treatments, and the impact on your earning capacity. Additionally, they assess whether the injury led to permanent impairment or disability. The degree of your employer’s liability under personal injury law and the strength of medical evidence also influence the worth. of your workers’ compensation claim.
Contact North Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, our dedicated North Chicago workers’ compensation attorneys are ready to guide you through the legal maze after a workplace injury. During a free consultation, we’ll evaluate your case, discuss potential compensation, outline the next steps, and answer your questions.
Worried about affording a lawyer? Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis — you only pay legal fees if we win your case. That way, all injured workers have access to legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Don’t wait, the time to act is now. Protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve with our experienced team by your side.
(312) 223-1700