The new Illinois Workers Compensation Law will dramatically change the way you will need to prepare for your settlement talks.
For injuries after September 1, 2011 the arbitrator will determine value of your injury based on AMA guidelines, what is in your medical records, and your limitations in light of work experience and age.
To put your self in the most favorable light you will need to explain in detail to your doctor what bothers you regarding your injury and how it limits your daily and work activities.
You should explain this to your doctor at each visit.
Most definitely, you should do this at the final visit.
Otherwise, you may end up with a short note in the records that provides “return to work without restrictions”.
This may seriously decrease the value of your case.
A detailed description of your problems in the final note will give you valuable information to argue for increased payment for permanent partial disability.
Questions about your Workmans Compensation claim, or what you need cover with your doctor? Feel free to contact Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Dirk May at 309-827-4371.