Most employees have heard of the term “workers’ comp.” If you have been injured at the workplace or have suffered an illness as the result of doing your job, chances are you have already encountered the complex maze of seeking workers’ compensation benefits.
Although simple to file, workers’ compensation claims are extremely complicated and should not be handled without the assistance of a skilled attorney. Going at it alone may garner you less than all of your deserved benefits!
At Drake & Collopy, P.C., we have been fighting for the rights of injured victims since our firm’s inception in 1996. With more than 40 years of collective experience, we understand the complexities involved and the obstacles encountered in achieving your rightful reimbursement for a workplace injury or illness. The following are a few of the most frequently asked questions our dedicated Chicago personal injury attorneys have encountered.
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Workers’ compensation is a system of benefits that employers are required by law to provide to their employees. These benefits are available regardless of who is at fault for the accident. The three main categories of benefits are:
- Payment of any reasonable and related medical bills
- Temporary total disability (TTD) payments during periods of time off work
- Permanent disability restitution, usually in a lump sum, based on the nature and extent of the injury
In most instances, the Workers’ Compensation Act covers:
- Injuries that are caused, in whole or in part, by the employee’s work or that happen while the employee is on the job
- Repetitive-motion injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- A stroke, heart attack, or other physical problem caused by work
- A pre-existing condition that was made worse by work
Generally, you must notify your employer within 45 days of an accident. If you wish to make a claim, you must file within three years after an on-the-job injury, death, or disablement, or within two years of the last payment of a medical bill or TTD benefit, whichever is later. Certain illnesses have longer windows to file for compensation. If you are unsure of which statute applies to your case, a skilled workers’ compensation attorney can provide the insight you need.
There are several kinds of workers’ compensation benefits, and they include:
- Medical care that is reasonably required to cure or relieve the effects of the injury
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, if you are off work and recovering
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits, if you are able to work part-time
- Vocational rehabilitation and maintenance benefits
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits, if you have sustained permanent injury and are able to return to your job
- Disfigurement benefits
- Wage differential benefits, if you are unable to return to your job but are able to work in another type of job with lower pay
- Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits, if you have been left permanently unable to work in any kind of job
- Death benefits for surviving family members
Here are some guidelines to follow if you have suffered an injury or illness as the result of doing your job:
- First, get the medical attention you need, then notify your employers as soon as you are able. If you do not inform your employer of your illness, accident, or injury within 45 days, you may lose your right to receive benefits.
- In the case of a workplace accident, document everything you can about the mishap. Include the facts of the accident, the type of treatment you received, and witness statements.
- For gradual-onset conditions or illnesses, keep a detailed record of how you are feeling each day and how the condition or illness impacts your daily activities.
- Save any and all bills from medical providers, including prescriptions.
- Tell your doctors your injury or illness is covered under workers’ compensation insurance. This will help ensure they are following state-approved treatments and billing schedules.
- Cooperate with doctors and follow their instructions. If you disregard doctor’s orders, it can be counted negatively against you. Make sure to obtain an updated disability slip from your doctor at each visit.
- Retain an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to protect your rights and maximize the benefits you are entitled to under the Workers’ Compensation Act.
Don’t miss your chance to obtain the benefits you deserve! Contact Drake & Collopy, P.C.
Unfortunately, workers’ compensation insurance carriers will often agree to pay benefits initially, but they abruptly and unjustly terminate them. The primary objective of insurance companies is to minimize claims, maximize profits, and not protect your best interests.
If you or a member of your family has been injured in a work-related accident, we can help! Workers’ compensation claims are complex, and it is ill advised to attempt to handle one on your own. Our experienced Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers can deliver the fervent advocacy you need to receive your complete allotment of benefits.
Don’t lose your right to obtain the benefits you deserve!
Contact Drake & Collopy, P.C. today for a free case evaluation!
