Workers' Compensation Claims
Few things hit home like being hurt on the job. Surgeries, physical therapy, medical bills, and time away from work are often just the beginning.
Fortunately, you’re not alone. At Black & Jones, we’ve spent decades seeking justice on behalf of injured workers who become our clients. We listen to you, help you translate the legal and medical jargon, and in the end, make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
EXAMPLES OF CASES WE'VE WORKED ON
- Construction accidents
- Car accidents
- Slip and falls
- Altercations at work
- Carpal tunnel
- Repetitive trauma injuries
- Exposure to hazardous material, mold, fumes, asbestos or cancer-causing agents
- Burns
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Histoplasmosis
- Heart attacks
- Spinal cord injuries
- Heavy equipment operator injuries
- Iron worker injuries
- Workplace deaths
- Injuries to police and fireman in the line of duty
- Disfigurement injuries
- Injuries causing loss of career
- Eye injuries
KEY STEPS
Initial Consultation
The insurance companies aren’t thinking about your best interests. So, get in touch with us first. We’ll explain your options and ensure you’re taking all the right steps.
Notifying Your Employer
Illinois law states you must notify your employer within 45 days of an injury—or whenever you realize a link between your condition and your work. This can be as simple as mentioning you have pain or need to see a doctor. In some cases, you may have more time.
Filing Your Claim
Next is filing a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). You must do so within 3 years of the accident or 2 years from when you were last paid a benefit. We may be able to get this deadline extended in certain circumstances.
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How We Help
We work for you. Not your employer and not the insurance company. We’re here to stand up for your rights and guide you through this complicated process.
Count on us to:
- Explain your options and return all calls within 24 business hours
- Communicate with your doctors, obtain medical records and secure testimony
- Handle all communication with the insurance company
- File your claim with the IWCC
- Advise you on issues with unions, government agencies and collections
- Present your case in a strategic, favorable manner
- Empower you to make informed decisions
- Stand with you and battle for proper compensation
OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Understanding Jurisdiction
Worried because the injury didn’t happen in state? Don’t be. If you received your job offer in Illinois—in person or otherwise—you’re eligible. The state takes workers’ compensation seriously and filing here is likely your best option.
Lost Wages
If you’re sidelined by a work-related injury, you’re owed temporary disability benefits equal to 2/3 of your average weekly wage. That’s counting other jobs you are unable to work. We won’t let you get shortchanged.
Amputation of Body Parts
When you suffer a full or partial amputation, you’re entitled to statutory loss benefits to be paid immediately upon informing the insurance company. Should this not happen, or they pay out at the wrong rate, you want someone on your side.
Special Benefits for First Responders
Our local heroes rightfully enjoy unique protections. For example, if a firefighter or EMT suffers from a bloodborne pathogen, respiratory or vascular disease, cancer, hernia or hearing loss, it’s presumed to be from a work-related exposure.
Your Legal Status and the Law
In Illinois, undocumented workers are entitled to the same benefits as anybody else. You need an attorney who is not afraid to stand their ground and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve—regardless of legal status.
Retaliatory Discharge
We won’t let you get bullied. An employer can’t fire or refuse to rehire you for exercising your rights under the Workers’ Compensation Act. If it happens, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
Related Blog Posts
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As if getting hurt on the job isn’t stressful enough, now it’s time to navigate the workers’ compensation system—which, unfortunately, is filled with red tape, tons of paperwork, and sometimes, even an employer who doesn’t want you to file a workers’ compensation claim. Check out the top workers’ compensation FAQs people call and ask us about.
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