Illinois Workers’ Compensation law is often complex and turns on unusual facts and circumstances.
If you are injured driving to or home from work, then you usually cannot be awarded benefits pursuant to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.
There are certain exceptions.
If you are traveling for a work purpose, then you can typically win your case.
For instance, if you are driving from your home on your way to work to pick up office mail at the post office and you are involved in an accident then your injury should be compensable.
Or if you are taking an office deposit to the bank after work and are injured, then you should win your case.
You do not have to prove someone else is at fault in these type of accidents to win your work injury case.
As a matter of fact you could be at fault or inattentive in some way and still be able to recover under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation law.
Another exception is if are on a business trip and injured while driving. This would include accidents while on free time or while going out to dinner. The law expends coverage greatly while you are on a business trip.
You may also be able to file a negligence claim against the other motorist if they are at fault.
Questions about a work injury? Feel free to contact Illinois Work Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.