Common Questions About Workers’ Compensation Claims
Although hiring a lawyer is not a formal requirement for workers’ compensation claims, it can often give workers an advantage. A skilled attorney from Gordon Gordon & Centracchio, can help you understand your rights, obligations and options. We can also stand up for you against large employers and powerful insurance companies if your case involves any conflict. Call 312-332-5200312-332-5200 or contact us for a free consultation.
Am I Entitled To Workers’ Compensation?
In Illinois, most workers can claim compensation for work-related injuries or occupational diseases. This includes most truck drivers, office employees, manufacturing workers, construction workers and more.
However, the nature and cause of your injuries can play a role in your eligibility. For example, if you suffer an injury at a voluntary social event with coworkers, there is a chance that you would not be eligible for compensation.
However, you might still be eligible if you suffer an injury while working in general – not just while at a specific workplace. For example, an office assistant could suffer an injury while delivering a company parcel to another business. That employee might still be entitled to compensation.
How Do I Get Workers’ Compensation?
Your employer pays for an insurance policy that covers workers’ compensation claims. When you suffer an injury at work, you should report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. Your employer should explain the next steps to you and notify their insurer of the injury.
Once the insurance company is in the picture, your case can potentially become more complicated. The insurer could offer a settlement or deny your claim. If you have trouble with insurance, call a lawyer who can advocate on your behalf.
What Benefits Are Available?
Potential benefits can include:
- Compensation for your medical expenses related to the injury
- Temporary total disability benefits
- Partial permanent disability benefits
- Permanent total disability benefits
- Vocational retraining
The benefits of your individual case will depend on the circumstances of your injury and whether you are – or eventually will be – able to continue work.
What If My Claim Is Denied?
Workers’ compensation claims can be difficult, and employees might not understand the different obligations that they may need to fulfill. For example, some insurance plans require employees to work with a preapproved medical provider. Failure to follow these rules could lead to claim denial.
However, insurance and workers’ compensation claims are complicated. It is advisable for injured employees to work with an attorney to ensure that they take the right steps – and that insurance companies are not wrongfully denying their claims.