Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim as an Office Worker in Chicago

Chicago is home to thousands of office workers, and many of these employees work in the downtown core. You might have chosen a career in an office specifically because you wanted to avoid injuries. But while it’s true that an office building is safer than other workplaces, accidents can still happen. So how do you approach a workers’ compensation claim after an office injury in Chicago?

Common Examples of Office Injuries 

Although various accidents can happen in an office building, a few injuries are particularly common. One example is a fall, and this can occur in any workplace imaginable. A worker might slip, trip, and fall due to walking hazards in their office. Common tripping hazards include broken/uneven carpets, loose cables, puddles, and dimly lit stairwells.

Another common issue for office workers is repetitive strain injury (RSI). Office work can be very repetitive, especially when it comes to typing and sitting at a computer. These injuries are just as legitimate as traumatic injuries caused by a single event. Although they may occur gradually over time, RSIs can be life-changing and career-ending. Those who type for hours may develop carpal tunnel syndrome, a common hand condition that may require significant treatment.

Workplace violence is also fairly common in offices. This environment can be highly stressful, and co-workers may become physically violent with each other for various reasons.

All of these injuries and accidents can lead to legitimate workers’ compensation claims. Although offices may not be as dangerous as other workplaces, employees still have the right to file claims and recover compensation for their damages.

File an Injury Report as Soon as Possible

 If you suffered an injury at an office building, you should file a report with your supervisor as soon as possible. Your workers’ compensation lawyer can help with this step, and you should file your report immediately. Delays could cause issues with your claim, and it might be impossible to recover compensation. Even if your employer is pushing back, you should still file your injury report in writing.

Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible 

You should also seek medical treatment as soon as possible after your office accident. Again, delays could cause issues with your claim – and it may be impossible to seek compensation if you don’t see a doctor. Even if you’re struggling with an issue that has gradually manifested (like an RSI), you should still see a doctor right away.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago Help Me? 

Office workers should be able to file their workers’ compensation claims in Chicago without many issues. This claim should provide enough compensation to cover medical bills and lost income – allowing injured office workers to fully recover before returning to work. That said, this process is often more complicated than it seems at first – especially if your claim is denied. If you’re having any issues with your claim or you simply want to learn more about this process, contact the Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources:

 igchicago.org/information-portal/data-dashboards/city-of-chicago-active-employees-demographics/

shrm.org/topics-tools/news/risk-management/5-common-office-hazards-to-prevent