Have you been injured in a recent work accident? If so, you should speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer in Joliet. Postman Law has extensive experience pursuing workers’ compensation claims and can help you pursue the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
Our team has secured over $3 billion for injury victims. With full-service case management, we offer the resources of a big firm with the care and attention of a small one. Contact our offices online or call today to schedule a free case consultation and learn how a Joliet personal injury lawyer can assist you.
How Does Workers’ Compensation Work in Joliet?
With only a small number of exceptions, almost all employers in Illinois are mandated by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance pays for injuries that employees sustain while on the job. When you get injured at work, you report the injury to your employer. Your employer reports the injury to their insurance, which will then pay you benefits.
In addition to carrying workers’ compensation coverage, employers must keep records of work injuries and place a notice in the workplace informing workers of their insurance rights. Failing to keep records or notify employees is a violation of the law that can result in penalties.
For a free legal consultation with a workers compensation lawyer serving Joliet, call 844-767-8626
Common Workplace Injuries in Joliet
Injuries can happen in virtually any workplace, but they are most common in heavy industries, like construction, manufacturing, transportation, and logistics. Workers’ compensation generall covers any kind of injury or illness, so long as it occurred at your job while performing normal job duties.
Below are some common types of workplace injuries we encounter in our practice:
- Slip and falls
- Injuries from blunt force trauma
- Caught-between accidents
- Vehicular accidents
- Cuts and lacerations
- Overexertion injuries
- Repetitive motion strain
- Burns and chemical exposure
- Long-term disease
Joliet Workers Compensation Lawyer Near Me 844-767-8626
What Compensation Does Workers’ Comp Offer in Illinois?
Workers’ compensation coverage provides three primary benefits for employees:
- Medical benefits. Workers’ compensation will cover the cost of any necessary medical treatment related to your injuries. This includes hospitalization costs, follow-up care, prescriptions, rehabilitation, counseling, and medical devices. In most cases, you can choose your own medical provider.
- Wage replacement. Workers’ compensation will also pay replacement wages if you cannot work. The exact amount is based on your level of disability, but in most cases, you should qualify to receive two-thirds of your average weekly income.
- Death benefits. If you lost a loved one in a work accident, workers’ compensation will typically cover up to $8,000 in funeral expenses and pay the survivors a death benefit of up to two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly earnings.
Wage replacement and death benefits are also subject to state minimum and maximum amounts. Your Joliet workers’ comp lawyer can explain what benefits you are entitled to receive.
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The Importance of Medical Documentation When Making Workers’ Compensation Claims
It’s incredibly important that you see a doctor as soon as possible after a work injury. Seeing a doctor creates a record of your injuries. You’ll need a full accounting of your injury diagnosis and treatment plan when you file a workers’ compensation claim.
Without medical documentation, it’ll be extremely difficult to prove your injuries and connect them to your work accident. Insurance companies will use any chance to dispute the reality and severity of your injuries, so you need exhaustive documentation to prove your claims.
Can I Sue My Employer for Work Injuries?
You generally cannot sue your employer for work injuries in Illinois. Workers’ compensation is meant to be the main remedy for work injuries, and the trade-off for no-fault coverage is that you can’t sue your employer for negligence if you get injured at work.
However, you can sue a third party who is not your employer if they caused your injuries. For instance, if defective equipment injured you, you could file a workers’ compensation claim and sue the manufacturer in a product liability lawsuit.
You may also be able to sue your employer if they fail to carry workers’ compensation coverage. Without coverage, your employer loses their general immunity to liability for injuries. Your Joliet workers’ comp attorney can evaluate your situation and determine all possible avenues for compensation.
Time Limit for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim
There are two time limits you need to be aware of for workers’ compensation. The first is the timeline for notifying your employer. You generally need to notify your employer about your work injury within 45 days.
The second time limit is for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If your employer doesn’t report your claim or it’s denied, you generally have three years to file a claim with the state Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Start Working With a Joliet Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
A work injury can set you back financially and cause great stress in your personal life. If you’ve been injured, you deserve to work with an attorney who can fight for your interests and well-being. Postman Law can be your legal advocate and give you the support you need to navigate your difficult circumstances.
Let us show you why countless individuals have chosen us for legal representation. Fill out our contact form or call us to speak to a workers’ compensation lawyer in Joliet.