Workers Compensation

Illinois Workers’ Compensation settlements and awards are based on your wages.

For instance a person who was injured while working a McDonald’s and earning minimum wage will receive much less than a full time union worker with the same injury.

Awards and settlements are calculated using a percentage of the injured body part.

For instance, the back has a total of 500 weeks. If you settle for 10 percent of the back you will receive 50 weeks.

50 weeks times your average weekly wage multiplied by 60 percent determines what you will receive. The 60 percent of the average weekly wage is specified in the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act

An example of this is an average weekly wage of $500 times 60 percent equals $300. 50 weeks is multiplied by the $300. This equals $15,000.

Since your wage governs the size of the award or settlement, it is important to make sure that the insurance company has the correct amount when deciding your case.

Another important thing to remember is that if you have a second job and your first employer is aware of it, then it can be added to your average weekly wage. This will boost your average weekly wage.

Overtime can be added in at the regular rate if you can show overtime is mandatory and is worked on a regular basis.

Questions about your work injury? Feel free to contact Illinois Workers’ Compensation Attorney Dirk May with Williams and Swee at 309-827-4371.