Burr Ridge Workers Compensation Lawyer
You expect your Illinois employer to maintain a safe workplace, but statistics reveal that on-the-job injuries and occupational diseases are still a major concern. According to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (WCC), around 132,400 workers are hurt and another 185 victims are killed in work-related accidents every year. Entire households suffer the impacts as bills pour in and a key financial contributor is unable to work. If you were hurt in a workplace accident, you may wonder about your options to recoup these losses.
Fortunately, you may qualify to file a claim for monetary benefits under Illinois’ workers’ comp system. Because the process can be more complicated than filling out some forms, it is wise to trust our team at Connolly Injury Law for assistance. To learn how we can help, please contact our office to schedule a no-cost consultation with a Burr Ridge workers’ compensation lawyer. You might also find it useful to review some background information about your rights.
How Illinois’ Workers’ Comp Laws Work
The state’s system for workers’ compensation is one of no-fault, which means you do not need evidence that your employer was negligent in causing your medical condition. However, the laws also balance the interests of your employer by providing that a workers’ comp claim is your sole remedy. You cannot pursue a lawsuit in civil court unless:
- Your employer did not comply with laws that require workers’ comp insurance or self-insurance;
- Your employer or an agent caused your injuries through intentional conduct; or
- A third party, unrelated to your employer, caused the accident in which you were injured.
You cannot recover amounts for pain and suffering unless one of these exceptions applies, but you may qualify to obtain amounts for many other losses.
Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits
To be eligible for workers’ comp in Illinois, you must have suffered a medical condition related to your job tasks, workplace conditions, or other factors present in your place of employment. It is also necessary to notify your employer within 45 days after an accident, though you should aim to provide notice as soon as possible.
There are many different benefits available for covered employees, and our Burr Ridge workers’ compensation attorneys at Connolly Injury Law can explain which would apply to your situation. Your payments may include:
- Medical bills to treat your work-related injuries or occupational illness;
- Wage replacement, when your medical condition causes you to miss work;
- Total or partial disability benefits, which may be permanent or temporary in nature; and
- Death benefits, if you are the surviving family member who lost a loved one in a workplace incident.
Set up a Free Consultation with a Burr Ridge Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a work-related accident, it is critical to retain experienced legal counsel for assistance with the workers’ comp process. Our lawyers at Connolly Injury Law are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees, so please contact our office at 312-780-0816 to schedule a free claim evaluation today.
