Steps to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, all employers are required to purchase workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. If an employee is hurt on the job, certain costs, such as medical bills and lost wages, will be covered by their employer’s workers’ compensation coverage. However, it can be difficult to follow the filing procedures outlined by the state. For this reason, you need the help of the Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.. Our dedicated legal team will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you understand what needs to be done at every turn.

To find out how we can help you with your workers’ compensation claim, call (312) 236-2900 now.

Filing Your Claim

When you get hurt on the job, you may be worried about your injuries and whether you’re able to continue working. Regardless of the situation, you should take a few steps that will enable you to get workers’ compensation benefits as quickly as possible. Steps to file a workers’ compensation claim in Illinois include the following:

1. Seek medical help.Any time you are injured, you should seek medical care right away. If you need to be seen urgently, seek care at an emergency room or urgent care clinic. If your doctor is available quickly, schedule an appointment as soon as possible. If your employer offers on-site medical treatment, utilize those services as well. This medical documentation will be implemental in proving your claim later.
2. Notify your employer.As soon as possible, you should notify your supervisor and/or human resources department that you have been injured. You only have 45 days after being injured to notify your employer, otherwise, your claim may be denied. Your employer should give you step by step directions for properly notifying them of your injury so that you don’t give up your right to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other benefits. At a minimum, you must describe your injury and the body areas impacted by the injury or accident.
3. Document your injuries.Make sure you keep records of your injuries, including lists of all doctors you’ve seen and their opinions. Keep receipts and bills from medical providers, pharmacies, and stores from which you buy over-the-counter supplies to treat your injuries. Keep a diary of how the injuries are impacting your life.
4. Report to your employer regularly.Your employer likely has requirements for submitting claims for lost wages. You will have to stay in contact with your employer and complete any necessary documentation.
5. Check the status of your claim.If your employer does not approve every part of your claim, you may have to appeal their decision to the Workers’ Compensation Commission. You can check the status of it on the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission website here. If treatment is being denied or wages have not been approved, you should seek legal help.

When you are filing a workers’ compensation claim, you must be prepared. This means carefully documenting your injuries, keeping track of your injury-related expenses, and verifying that you are getting the correct amount for your workers’ comp claim. Your employer may deny your claim or fail to compensate you properly for medical bills, travel, lost wages, or other losses. A Chicago workers’ compensation attorney can help.

How Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. Can Assist You

While it is possible to go it alone when pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, having the help of an experienced lawyer can be extremely helpful. An attorney can work with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission to ensure that you are receiving fair compensation. The Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. will listen to your side of the story and help you to uncover any and all costs you are owed because of your work injury. They will ensure that you are not pressured into accepting an offer that is less than what you deserve.

To find out how you can be fairly compensated for your workplace injury, call (312) 236-2900 or contact us online today. Our dedicated team of legal professionals will do everything in their power to protect your rights.