We haven't talked much about occupational exposure injuries so here you go
The Occupational Disease Act is for the most part the same thing as the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act except that it deals with injuries that are a result of exposure to chemicals or other occupational hazards. It's not like lifting a box where something happens and you know you are injured. Rather it's an exposure that over time causes a problem.
We are investigating the case of a firefighter who has developed leukemia. Some studies show that firefighters are at risk for leukemia to do exposure to toxic chemicals when responding to a fire call. On top of that, there is exposure to benzene and other chemicals when driving their trucks.
Much like a typical repetitive trauma case, if your doctor says that your job contributed to your disease, you are eligible for benefits even if your job is not the primary cause. 100% of your medical bills should be paid, you'd get 2/3 of your wage tax free for your time off work and you'd be entitled to compensation for the permanent nature of your injury.
Because these problems don't show up right away, many clients are under the gun time wise to get a case filed. If you think you are injured from an exposure to chemicals at work do not delay seeking a lawyer.
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.
