Even using the utmost caution, we spend at least eight hours a day at work, and eventually, most of us are bound to get hurt in one way or another. Although the number of fatal workplace injuries dipped somewhat in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic, as the unemployment rate continues dropping, workplace injuries are expected to rise again.
Illinois requires nearly every worker to be covered by workers’ compensation insurance provided by their employer. However, just because an employer has workers’ compensation insurance does not mean that they will be willing to pay or willing to pay fairly. Sometimes employers even flout the law and do not get workers’ compensation at all. If you have been injured at work, you may want to seriously consider getting help from an Illinois workers’ compensation attorney who can help.
What Does a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Do?
The responsibility of a great workers’ compensation attorney is to secure the best possible outcome in your case. They know the system and the kinds of mistakes that often trip people up. Attorneys with experience resolving workers’ compensation cases also have the knowledge to go toe-to-toe with insurance companies and non-compliant employers.
This starts with helping you file a claim for compensation, which is not as easy as simply asking your employer for time off work. You will need to file a compensation claim within the necessary deadlines and follow up to make sure you get your benefits as soon as possible. If your claim does not contain the necessary information, it may be denied.
Fighting a denied claim can be exhausting and stressful when you are trying to recover from a work accident. An attorney can take on the heavy lifting for you so you can rest and recover. If necessary, they will help you build a strong case by collecting evidence about the accident and its impact on your life.
Once you have the evidence to make your case, an attorney can help you decide how much money to claim. Insurance companies are expert negotiators and will be looking for reasons not to pay you the full amount you request. Your attorney can negotiate on your behalf, ensuring the insurance companies negotiate more fairly with you.
Call a Will County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Although you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, the insurance company may be reluctant to pay or may dispute the facts of your accident. If you have been hurt on the job, meet with Plainfield, IL workplace injury attorney Daniel Flaherty with Flaherty Law. Call us today for any personal injury matter and get a free, confidential consultation. You can reach our offices at 815-860-5702.
Sources:
https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2430&ChapterID=68
https://www.bls.gov/iif/