Illinois Workers' Compensation Claims Attorneys
If you have been injured at work, you must take several steps to protect yourself and your rights to workers' compensation benefits. It is important to speak with a lawyer - but there are several other things that you should also do as soon as possible.
For general informational purposes, the attorneys of Woodruff & Johnson have provided the following guide to the process of filing a workers' compensation claim. For specific details regarding your potential claim, contact our offices today.
Filing a Workers' Compensation Claim
Following an injury on the job, seek medical attention immediately.
As soon as you are physically able, notify your employer of the accident or injury. If notification isn't made within 45 days of a work accident, you may forfeit your right to workers' compensation benefits. Notice may be given orally or in writing, but must be made to a person in a management position, not a co-worker.
In addition to notifying your employer, you must file a claim with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission. To file a claim, you must complete an Application for Adjustment of Claim - completing an accident report for your employer is not the same as filing a claim. By filing a claim you protect your right to receive benefits, including medical treatment and disability payments for time you cannot work.
Sometimes workers are concerned about filing a claim against an employer, fearing that they might face negative consequences from supervisors and managers. Don't worry. In a workers' compensation claim, there is generally very little interaction between your lawyer and your employer. Most of the time, we are dealing directly with your employer's insurance company.
If your injury on the job has left you unable to work for three consecutive days, your employer must do one of the following:
- Begin paying you benefits
- Explain in writing what additional information is required before benefits can be paid
- Provide written explanation of why benefits have been denied.
Workers' compensation in Illinois is a no-fault law. You are eligible to receive benefits even if your actions contributed to your injury or occupational illness.
Following a work accident, contact our offices for a no-charge, no-obligation consultation. We'll help you secure the workers' compensation benefits you need and deserve. Call us if your initial claim has been denied. We can effectively handle Illinois workers' compensation appeals.
Our founder, attorney Casey Woodruff, provides continuing legal education to other attorneys regarding workers' compensation law. He and his staff are eminently qualified to help you file your claim and obtain benefits.
