Common Questions about Workers’ Compensation

• How soon should I report an accident/injury in the workplace?

Although your manager or supervisor should be informed of the accident as soon as possible, workers in Illinois have 45 days to report it before any benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act will be forfeited.

• Should I provide a recorded statement to an insurer?

As with other insurers, you should hesitate to make any recorded statements for workers’ comp insurers. Although they may be courteous and appear to be on your side, they are tasked with limiting liability for their companies as best they can. Many claimants have made seemingly innocuous comments which were later used against them, so consulting with an attorney before making any statements is strongly advised.

• Can I receive benefits even if I have been employed for 90 days or less?

Generally, yes; you may qualify for workers’ comp benefits even if you were injured on your first day on the job. Some employers attempt to conceal this truth to avoid paying more substantial premiums for such claims, so anyone who has been injured within 90 days of work should consult with an attorney to determine how to proceed.

• What benefits are available to workers’ comp claimants in Illinois?

Medical benefits “reasonably related to” treatment and care for the injury suffered in the workplace;

Vocational rehabilitations for injured employees participating in these programs;

Temporary partial disability benefits – If you can return to work but at a lower capacity than before the injury/illness, these are wage-replacement benefits which cover the difference/s of lost wages.

Temporary total disability benefits – Wage-replacement benefits for injured employees while they are out of work and recovering from their injury/illness.

Permanent partial disability benefits – For employees who have suffered a permanent injury/disability but are still able to work.

Permanent total disability benefits – For employees who are permanently unable to work.

Death benefits – For survivors or dependents of an employee who has died as a result of a work-related injury or illness.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident in the workplace, contact 844 See Mike, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.