Getting injured at work can be a traumatizing experience, especially if you sustain severe injuries that may affect your life permanently. In Illinois, laws are in place to protect the rights of workers who sustain injuries at their workplaces. These laws provide avenues of compensation and legal remedies to injured employees. However, to access these remedies, you will have to navigate various legal requirements and procedures. The following is a comprehensive guide on what to do if you are injured at work in Illinois.
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Report Your Injury Immediately
The first step you should take after getting injured at work is to report the injury immediately to your employer. According to Illinois laws, you are required to report any work-related injuries to your employer no later than 45 days after the incident. However, it’s always advisable to report the immediately to avoid complications.
You can report the injury either verbally or in writing. Verbal reporting is crucial, especially when the injury is severe, as it’ll prompt quick medical intervention. If you choose to report the injury in writing, ensure you keep a copy of the report for your records.
Seek Medical Attention
The next step after reporting the injury is to seek medical attention. Your employer should provide you with a list of approved healthcare providers from which you’ll receive medical treatment. If your employer fails to provide you with these providers, you can seek medical attention from any healthcare practitioner of your choosing.
Illinois laws require employers to cover the costs of medical treatment for work-related injuries. However, employers can challenge medical bills if they believe the charges are unjustified or inappropriate.
File A Workers’ Compensation Claim
After you report the injury and receive medical treatment, you should file a workers’ compensation claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). The IWCC is a state agency responsible for managing workers’ compensation claims.
To file a claim, you should complete an Application for Adjustment of Claim form and file it with the IWCC. The IWCC will review the claim and make a decision on whether or not to award compensation to cover your medical bills and lost wages.
Cooperate With Your Employer And The IWCC
During the claims process, you’ll need to cooperate with your employer and the IWCC. This includes attending medical examinations, providing information and documentation as requested and attending all scheduled hearings and appointments.
Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer
If you believe that your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance provider is acting in bad faith, or if the compensation provided isn’t satisfactory, you can hire a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure you receive all the compensation you’re entitled to.
Your lawyer will investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury, review medical records, and gather other relevant evidence to build a strong case. They will represent you at hearings and negotiations with your employer and their insurance provider.
Conclusion
If you’re ever injured at work in Illinois, it’s essential to know your legal rights and the steps you need to take to secure compensation. Remember, the actions you take immediately after sustaining the injury can significantly impact your case. Always report the injury to your employer, seek medical attention, and file a workers’ compensation claim with the IWCC. Additionally, cooperatively work with your employer and the IWCC, and consider hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you.