In Illinois, if your work injury prevents you from performing your former job permanently you will need to take several steps.
First, prove that your work accident has resulted in permanent restrictions.
Second, prove the permanent restrictions keep you from performing your old job.
Third, conduct a job search to show that there are no jobs that are able to accommodate your restrictions.
If you are able to find a job, then you may be entitled to a wage differential between the wage at your former job and the wage at your new job.
If you cannot find any jobs because your restrictions are too limiting, then you would be entitled benefits for the remainder of your life time.
The process is complicated and requires compliance with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation law and rules.
Please contact Illinois Work Comp Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371 to discuss your work injury and your next steps for recovering a settlement for your serious work injury.