Employee Rights Under Illinois Workers’ Compensation Law
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 2.9 million non-fatal injuries in the workplace during 2015; this statistic means that three out of every 100 workers are affected by on-the-job incidents. These victims may experience various losses as a result. Illinois workers’ compensation laws exist to compensate injured employees, providing such benefits as the costs of treatment, disability benefits, vocational rehabilitation, and lost wages.
To cover these benefits for an injured employee, an employer must procure workers’ compensation insurance that pays out for qualifying claims. In turn, the insurer funds payment for an injured worker’s losses. In the spirit of ensuring an employee can return to work as soon as possible after suffering an injury, Illinois workers’ compensation laws incorporate a no-fault system of benefits. Therefore, a worker doesn’t have to prove that an employer was negligent in any way.
An employee has certain obligations in order to obtain the benefits he or she is allowed by law. A victim must notify the employer about the incident that caused the injury, preferably in writing. The employer is responsible for informing the insurance company to begin the claims process, and start paying benefits for qualifying claims.
Workers’ Compensation Disputes
An employer may deny a workers’ compensation claim, often on the grounds that the matter doesn’t qualify as a workplace injury under the law. A worker must file the proper paperwork with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission in the event of a contested claim; it’s wise to file a claim with the IWCC even before a dispute. The IWCC will step in as necessary to enforce the state’s laws on injuries in the workplace and protect the rights of employees.
Discuss Your Case with an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
The Schultz & Myers Personal Injury Lawyers workers’ compensation legal team has represented many individuals injured while on the job, helping them obtain the full extent of benefits allowed under the law. However, the key to success with these types of cases is retaining an experienced, dedicated attorney as soon as possible after your injury. Our Illinois workers’ compensation attorneys can schedule a free consultation at your convenience, so please contact us to discuss your circumstances. You may also visit us online for more information.
