Mistakes To Avoid During Your Workers’ Compensation Trial In Illinois

Illinois employers carry workers’ compensation insurance, which is a type of insurance that provides no-fault benefits to employees who suffer injuries or illnesses on the job. You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you have suffered a workplace injury or disease in Illinois.

After filing your workers’ compensation claim, you may need to go to trial. A workers’ compensation trial in Illinois involves giving testimony under oath outside of court. It is one of the crucial steps in finalizing a case in the event settlement is not reached. The result of your trial will significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Unfortunately, many employees unknowingly make mistakes during their workers’ compensation trial that end up adversely affecting their case’s outcome. It is crucial that you understand the mistakes that you should avoid during your workers’ compensation trial. The following are some of the worst mistakes plaintiffs make during a trial for workers’ compensation;

Mistake #1: Giving False Information or Withholding Information

It is a big mistake for you to give false information during your workers’ compensation trial. If caught in a lie, it can damage your credibility in other aspects of your case. Also, you should avoid withholding information specifically requested during the trial, as withholding information can also hurt your credibility.

Mistake #2: Exaggerating Your Injuries

It is crucial that you avoid exaggerating your injuries. If it is discovered that you have exaggerated your injuries, it could hurt your credibility and make it hard for you to recover benefits. Only provide accurate information about the extent of your injuries.

Mistake #3: Offering Too Much Information

Although you need to provide the information that is asked for, you should avoid volunteering too much additional information that is not relevant to the question. Only answer the question asked and wait for the next question before sharing additional information.

Mistake #4: Answering When You Are Uncertain of the Answer

If you do not understand a question or are unsure about what is being asked, you should ask for clarification. When you request that the question be repeated or rephrased, you can avoid giving an inaccurate or misleading answer.

Mistake #5: Answering Before the Opposing Attorney Finishes the Question

You should not answer a question until the attorney has finished talking. Do not assume you know what the attorney is asking. If you assume you know what the attorney is asking, you could end up giving out unnecessary information that could harm your case.

Mistake6 #: Being Argumentative or Unprofessional

Lastly, you must remain calm, professional, and respectful throughout your trial. Arguing or becoming aggressive with the defense side will only harm your case. If you feel like you are about to lose your cool, request a break and talk to your attorney about how you feel.

Contact a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

You may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if you’ve suffered an injury or illness on the job in Illinois. Our Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer at Connolly Injury Law can help you file your claim and fight for the benefits you deserve.

Source:

law.cornell.edu/wex/workers_compensation