What Does a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Do?
Employees are responsible to their employers to deliver quality while employers are responsible for maintaining a safe job site. When an accident happens on the job and an employee gets hurt, the employee is entitled to compensation. In Illinois this is known as workers’ compensation and is covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act.
How Do I Bring a Workers’ Compensation Claim?
A quick glance at the Workers’ Compensation Act will show that getting compensated for a work-related injury could be quite complicated. The terms of employment are important; was the employee a contractor, subcontractor, temporary, or full-time employee? There may even be a clause in the employment contract that changes the claim. The location of the job site also plays a role. The exact cause of the injury helps determine who is responsible. Additionally, the type of work that caused the injury comes into play when bringing a claim.
How Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?
If you have been hurt on the job, it is critical that you know your rights to compensation. For instance, if you don’t notify your employer of your injury within 45 days, you forfeit your right to compensation altogether. You are eligible to receive compensation even if you have contributed to your own injury because Illinois is a “no-fault” system. Knowing how the system works will ensure that you get the compensation to which you are entitled under the law. An injury can cause you to miss work and the paycheck that comes with that time on the job.
Arming yourself with an attorney is the first step to guaranteeing your injuries do not ruin your finances. At Woodruff Johnson & Palermo we understand the workers’ compensation system and will fight for your right to recover. If you have suffered an injury at work, contact our team of Downers Grove workers’ compensation lawyers today to schedule a free consultation.
