Workplace injuries can disrupt your life in an instant, leaving you with physical pain, emotional strain and financial uncertainty. Knowing your rights and legal options is crucial to protecting yourself and your family in the aftermath of an on-the-job injury. At the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline, we are committed to helping injured workers in Illinois secure the compensation they deserve. Here’s what you need to know about your options if you’re injured at work.
Understanding Workers’ Compensation in Illinois
If you’re injured on the job, Illinois law provides protections through the Workers’ Compensation Act. This law ensures that employees receive specific benefits for work-related injuries, regardless of who was at fault. The purpose of workers’ compensation is to provide swift and fair financial relief without the need for lengthy court battles.
Most Illinois employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This means that if you are injured while performing your job duties, you are typically entitled to certain benefits, which we’ll discuss in detail below.
Key Benefits You Are Entitled to After a Workplace Injury
1. Full Coverage of Medical Expenses
One of the core benefits of workers’ compensation is the payment of your medical expenses. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, therapy, prescriptions and even occupational rehabilitation when necessary. You have the right to choose your own doctor, rather than relying on one dictated by your employer’s insurance company. Additionally, any medical treatment deemed “reasonable and necessary” for your recovery must be covered.
A skilled attorney can ensure that the insurance company pays these bills and doesn’t deny or delay treatments you require.
2. Compensation for Lost Wages
If your injury prevents you from working, you are entitled to Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits, which replace a portion of your lost wages. Typically, TTD benefits equal two-thirds of your average weekly wage before taxes. These payments help bridge the financial gap while you recover and are unable to earn a regular income.
Ensuring that these payments arrive timely and accurately is a key area where legal representation can make a significant difference.
3. Settlement for Permanent Injuries
Employees who suffer permanent injuries may qualify for a monetary award as compensation for the injury itself. The amount depends on factors like the severity of the injury, the part of your body affected and your overall earning capacity. This can be a life-changing component of your compensation, supporting long-term financial stability for you and your family.
Navigating these settlements can be complex, as there’s often a wide range of acceptable amounts the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission may approve. Having an experienced lawyer to negotiate on your behalf is critical for maximizing the compensation you receive.
Why Legal Representation Matters
While workers’ compensation aims to protect injured workers, insurance companies don’t always make the process easy. They may deny claims, delay payments or offer low settlements that fail to reflect the full extent of your injury. A knowledgeable attorney at the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline can safeguard your rights and help you pursue the maximum possible compensation allowed under Illinois law.
Take Action Today
Workplace injuries can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face this challenge alone. With over 30 years of experience, the Law Office of Mitchell A. Kline is dedicated to standing up for workers like you. Whether you’re dealing with denied claims, delayed payments or an unclear path forward, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to and the justice you deserve.
