Workers’ compensation and third-party litigation
Thousands of men and women file workers’ compensation claims yearly in Greater Chicago, yet only a fraction of those claims are ever paid out. Why? Most people don’t take one critically important step to protect their rights and ensure they receive the compensation they’re due: Start working with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney right away.
Workers’ compensation coverage is designed to provide coverage for employees injured while on the job. When you receive any type of job injury, from a construction accident to a slip and fall to a vehicle collision while on the job, the law provides for your medical bills to be paid and your lost wages to be partially covered. However, the process is rarely so straightforward.
Like most legal processes, filing a workers’ compensation claim can be complex. Even a single misstep can result in your claim being undervalued or denied outright. Working with an experienced, knowledgeable attorney right from the start is the best way to ensure your rights are protected so you can receive all the benefits you deserve.
Workers’ compensation claims
Medical bills
Illinois workers’ compensation law requires your employer to pay for your reasonable and necessary medical care. However, your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance carrier will likely dispute the reasonable and necessary definition. In addition to a required examination by the company doctor, you are entitled to be treated by two doctors of your choice. Any further treatment, including specialist referrals, will be questioned and often denied. Our firm negotiates with the insurance company to ensure that you receive the medical care you need.
Disability payments
If you cannot work due to your injuries, you are entitled to disability payments. Your doctor may assess—
- Temporary total disability (TTD). You cannot work until your injuries heal and are entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wage.
- Partial permanent disability (PPD). Your injuries reduce your earning capacity for the rest of your life. A settlement amount must be determined to compensate for your reduced income.
- Permanent total disability (PTD). Your injuries leave you unable to work at your established trade for the rest of your life. Your settlement or award must be large enough to permanently replace your income.
If the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission denies your disability status, our lawyers will represent you at an administrative hearing to appeal the decision. If your petition continues to be denied, we will file a lawsuit to get you the appropriate compensation for your disability.
Lawsuits against other parties
Workers’ compensation awards are legally limited and may not be adequate to cover your losses. When this is the case, our construction lawyers and workers’ compensation attorneys examine the circumstances of your accident to determine if another party may have been responsible. Examples of negligent third parties include—
- Vendors
- Contractors
- Machine manufacturers
Work with us to get compensation for your job injuries
At the Blumenshine Law Group, we work closely with men and women employed throughout the Greater Chicago area and Illinois, helping them understand the process and take the steps they need to help ensure their rights are protected to receive the benefits and compensation they deserve.
For a free consultation about your work injury case, contact one of our experienced attorneys at [email protected] or call or text us at (312) 766-1000. We help people in the state of Illinois.