Floats like a butterfly, stings like a bee and other odd work injuries
Quick primer on some unique injuries in Illinois workers' compensation:
Bee stings: If you get stung by a bee and then get hurt from that (e.g. bee stings you and you hurt your knee trying to run from it) it's probably not a case. The theory is that you are at no increased risk to the general public of that happening. Bee stings could happen anywhere. On the other hand, if you are a bee keeper or work in a place that is infested with bees that would be a different story.
That curb tripped me: Again, it's typically not an increased risk situation if you trip on a curb. But if you are a traveling employee that might be enough to make it a case.
Allergic reactions: If your job requires you to work with a product like latex and you have an allergic reaction, that is a case. The employer needs to find a way for you to do your job without the latex being a problem.
Black eyes and broken noses: If you get in to a fight with a co-worker about a work issue and are not considered the "aggressor" then your injuries are covered. If you are the aggressor or you are arguing about things that have nothing to do with work (e.g. why the Bears are so bad) then it's likely not a case.
Burns and scars: Any disfigurement from a work injury is compensable as far as medical bills and lost time go related to that injury. For permanent compensation you need to show disfigurement above the knees or below the navel or anywhere else on your body. In other words, if hot grease gets spilled on your stomach at work, the resulting scar might not be worth anything. But if it's on your arm then you have a claim.
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.
