There are three main benefits under Illinois workers' compensation law
Illinois workers' compensation cases are not lawsuits. Employees in Illinois can typically not sue their employer for negligence. Instead they get workers' compensation benefits and don't have to prove any fault or negligence if their injuries arose out of and in the course of their employment. Injured workers usually can receive:
100% of their medical bills: That means no co-pays or out of pocket expenses if the treatment is reasonable and necessary.
66% of your average weekly wage: This is also known as TTD benefits or temporary total disability. You get 2/3 of your average wage over the last 52 weeks. Unlike some other benefits, there is no maximum amount of time to receive TTD. You get it until you are back to work at your old job or can work with restrictions.
A settlement for the permanent nature of your injury: This is known as PPD or permanent partial disability benefits. The amount you receive for this depends on your wage and the impact of the injury on your life and how it will effect you in the future. Lawyers determine this by looking at your medical records and comparing your situation to past cases that have been settled or decided by a Judge in Illinois.
In some instances you can get penalties and fees against your employer which will increase your compensation. This usually happens when benefits are denied without any basis. There is no provision under the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act to receive "punitive damages" or compensation for "pain and suffering."
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
