Process to File for Workers' Compensation Claim in Chicago

Work-related medically consulted injuries totaled 4.53 million in the US in 2022. This shows that worker injuries are a common occurrence happening everywhere, and Chicago, Illinois, is no exception. Various types of workplace injuries may include slips, being hit by moving objects, and falls from heights, among others.

In case you are a victim of such an incident, it's crucial to seek medical attention and then file for worker's compensation with the help of a lawyer. This ensures that you receive the necessary support and compensation for your injuries and any resulting financial losses.

Let's discuss the step-by-step process of filing a worker's compensation claim and its benefits!

Requirements for Filing a Worker's Compensation Claim

The following are the things you must ensure for a successful work injury claim:

• You must be an employee of the company or business
• Share the injury details with the employer within a specific deadline
• The injury or illness should occur in the workplace to qualify it as a workplace injury
• Your employer must have a worker's compensation insurance

Step-by-Step Process of Filing a Worker's Compensation Claim

To secure a fair amount for your loss in a workplace injury, you should follow these steps:

Get Medical Care

The first step in filing your worker's compensation claim is to get medical care for your injury as soon as possible. No injury is small to be ignored because what may seem insignificant can result in severe underlying health conditions, such as internal bleeding and whiplash.

It creates a documented proof of the incident. These medical records are used by the Chicago workers compensation lawyer to file your claim.

Inform Your Boss About the Incident

Your next step should be to inform your employer about the incident and share all the necessary medical reports. Some other things that you must share to strengthen your case are:

• Images of the scene
• Initial doctor’s diagnosis report
• Witness statement
• Specialist reports
• Photos of the injury

In the state of Illinois, you are required to submit your worker's compensation application to the employer within 45 days of the incident. If you don't file a claim during this time, you may not get well-deserved compensation.

A few tips that you must follow when informing your boss about the incident are:

• Mention the date and time of the incident in the application.
• Directly contact the employer and avoid relying on third parties like co-workers or managers.
• Submit the application in written form to avoid any discrepancies.

File Your Application for the Adjustment of Claim

Now, you must fill out the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission Application for Adjustment of Claim. The time duration to submit this application is anywhere around 3 years from the day of injury.

Once submitted, you'll also be required to submit other paperwork sharing information like when and where the incident occurred, the nature of your injury, and any medical treatment you've received. Your employer and their insurance company then review your claim to check its validity.

Meanwhile, you'll be given a list of medical providers where you can get the necessary treatment. The employer will be responsible for replying to the claim within 14 days, especially if you have missed three or more days of work.

Track the Status of Your Worker's Compensation Claim

You can keep track of the status of your claim application via the Illinois Workers' Commission Website. If your employer doesn't agree to your claim, you can get legal help from a worker's compensation lawyer to challenge the decision.

Compensation Available for Worker's Compensation Claim

The following are some benefits or compensations you can receive for your worker's compensation claim:

• It covers medical, rehabilitation, and other ongoing care expenses
• The worker's compensation claim pays you for lost wages if you are at temporary total disability (complete off to employees to allow recovery from injuries) or temporary partial disability (employees work for fewer hours for healing from the injury).
• Workers often fall ill in the workspace due to allergens or exposure to harmful chemicals. Worker's compensation claim pays for the necessary treatment and any ongoing care.
• In case of a work-related injury that results in death, the claim provides benefits to the deceased employee's dependents. The benefits include covering funeral expenses and providing financial assistance to the deceased spouse, children, or other dependents.

Conclusion

Filing for a worker's compensation claim is not a difficult task. You must get proper medical attention following the incident and then share the injury or illness details with your employer. Apply for the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission Application for Adjustment of Claim to cover your damage expenses, be it physical, financial, or emotional.

Once you are done applying, keep track of your application to see if the claim is approved or rejected. If it's approved, you can expect coverage for lost wages, medical bills, illness treatment, and funeral costs.