Illinois Workers’ Compensation: FAQs
If you’re an employee who’s recently suffered an injury in Illinois, you might have many questions about the workers’ compensation system. This is where workers’ compensation attorneys come in. Workers’ compensation attorneys provide you with legal representation and the information you need to stay informed about the workers’ compensation system and the workers’ compensation claim process.
In this article, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the Illinois workers’ compensation system and workers’ compensation process.
Who is covered under the Workers’ Compensation Act?
The Workers’ Compensation Act covers most employees hired in Illinois. As an employee, you receive this protection from the first day you start your job.
Who qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits?
You don’t have to have suffered your injury in the office or another workplace to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. If you suffered your injury while performing a duty connected to your employment, even if you were not in your workplace, you most likely qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
How long do I have to give an employer notice of my injury?
You are required to give an employer notice of your injury within 45 days after your injury arises. Nevertheless, it’s best to inform your employer of your injury as soon as possible.
How long do I have to file a workers’ compensation claim?
According to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, you generally have three years from the date you sustained your injury to file a workers’ compensation claim.
What injuries are covered by the workers’ compensation system?
The Illinois workers’ compensation system covers injuries that workers sustain while performing work-related duties. This includes injuries that occur gradually over time. For example, if your injury occurred because of repetitive job duties, you have the right to recover workers’ compensation benefits.
What benefits can be obtained through a workers’ compensation claim?
After filing an Illinois workers’ compensation claim, you can recover the following benefits;
- Medical benefits
- Wage differential benefits
- Temporary disability benefits
- Permanent total disability benefits
- Permanent partial disability benefits
- Disfigurement benefits
- Vocational rehabilitation and maintenance benefits
Do I have to show that my employer was negligent?
The workers’ compensation system is a no-fault system, so you don’t need to show that your employer was negligent to recover benefits. Also, your employer cannot allege negligence on your part as a defense.
Can I file a workers’ compensation claim if I had an injury to the same body part?
Yes. Your employer is still responsible for paying you workers’ compensation benefits if you suffered a new injury to that body part or if your pre-existing injury worsened.
If I file a workers’ compensation claim, will I lose my job?
It’s unlawful for your employer to fire you because of exercising your workers’ compensation rights.
Contact a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
If you recently suffered an injury in Illinois while on the job, it is best that you retain a workers’ compensation lawyer. Our Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer at Connolly Injury Law can provide you with the information you need and help you recover the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve.
Source:
ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2430&ChapterID=68
