Important Illinois Work Comp Steps

In Illinois it is very important to give written notice of your work injury as soon as possible.

Most employees have a work injury report available for this situation. Complete it and ask for a copy for your records. The sooner you complete the form, the better.

The insurance company cannot argue the accident did not happen if you have a copy of the written form.

You should go to a doctor as quickly as you can get into.

Make sure to explain to all the staff and the doctor that your injury happened at work, how it happened, and all the body parts injured.

The closer to the time of accident that you visit the doctor, the better for you case. It shows the connection between your accident and your medical treatment.

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Arbitrators rely heavily on accident reports and medical records.

When you have both and medical treatment shortly after the work injury, the Arbitrator will rule in your favor and award you related medical bills, off work pay, and a settlement at the end of the case.

Follow these steps and contact an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Attorney to represent you and protect your interests.

Questions about your Work Injury case? Feel free to contact Illinois Workers’ Compensation Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

How Do I Get My Work Comp Money?

In Illinois you cannot get your Illinois Workers’ Compensation settlement money until your medical treatment has been completed and your doctor releases you permanently from further treatment.

This is because your settlement is based on the type of injury you experienced, the medical treatment you received (such as surgery or injections), and any permanent restrictions you have.

Do not let the insurance company forget to pay your settlement. Some companies will hope an injured worker does not understand they are entitled to money once the doctor has released them from care.

The settlement must be put in writing and submitted to an Arbitrator for approval. Payment usually comes within 4 weeks.

If you do not see a settlement from the insurance company or one of their lawyers contacts you, then make sure to get an Illinois Workers’ Compensation attorney to help you.

You may consult with a lawyer to review the amount of money you should receive for your settlement. There are no attorney fees owed until the end of the case when you are paid your money. Under Illinois law the attorney fees are limited to 20 percent of the settlement.

Questions about your work injury? Feel free to contact Illinois Work Comp Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.