Workers Compensation Lawyer in Chicago, Illinois Work Injury Attorney

Step #1, always, is to get medical attention for your injury. Step #2 is to notify your employer. You only have 45 days to do this or it can hurt your chances of getting benefits under workers’ compensation.

We hear from people who did not report their injuries and wish they had. The reasons for not reporting an injury range from thinking the injury isn’t serious enough, to fear of getting fired, and general misinformation about workers’ compensation.

The reality is that a minor injury can worsen, and if you reported it by the deadline, you’re in a better position. If you fail to report it and then lose your job, you have even bigger problems. It is illegal for an employer to fire you for pursuing a workers’ compensation claim, and in Illinois there are laws to protect you.

Your employer is supposed to fill out a specific form. Many do not. Some companies have their own forms in place, as well. In many small companies, all of this is overlooked. Because you are required to notify your employer, we suggest putting something in writing, even if it’s an informal note. Make sure to keep a copy. The goal is to ensure that your employer can’t claim that you never told them.

Think long term. While at the moment it may seem like just a couple of doctor appointments and a few missed days, you can end up needing surgery and missing months of work. If you are approved for benefits under workers’ compensation, you can get your medical bills covered and even get checks for a portion of your wages until you recover.

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.

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