Chicago Workers Compensation Lawyer
Most Chicago employees who sustain workplace injuries can file a workers’ compensation claim to recover medical, wage, vocational rehabilitation, and disability benefits. Workers’ compensation is insurance employers purchase to cover the costs of accidents at their job sites. While the filing process is simple, sometimes insurers offer unfair compensation or deny valid claims altogether.
Content Written by: Samuel Meirowitz
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished NYC personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Samuel Meirowitz is “Top 100 Trial Lawyer” and an accomplished NYC personal injury lawyer, trial attorney and relentless advocate for his clients. Previously, he served the State of New York for four years as a prosecutor in the Bronx District Attorney’s office. Mr. Meirowitz is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida State Courts.
Quick Links
- How Can Meirowitz & Wasserberg Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Help You?
- What To Do if You Were Injured on the Job in Chicago
- Who Is Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Chicago?
- Types of Injuries and Illnesses Covered Under Workers’ Compensation
- Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available for Injured Workers in Chicago
- What Is the Time Limit To File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Chicago?
- How To File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois
- What To Do if Your Workers’ Compensation Claim Is Denied Benefits
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact an Experienced Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Today
If you’ve been hurt in a workplace accident, it’s crucial to secure high-quality legal assistance from a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer. Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can ensure you know your rights and help you on the path toward compensation. Call (844) 446-9529 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.
How Can Meirowitz & Wasserberg Workers' Compensation Lawyers Help You?
The legal team at Meirowitz & Wasserberg is composed of highly compassionate attorneys known for their aggressive trial skills in the courtroom. We defend everyday people who experience injuries caused by others’ negligence and have a history of securing high-value compensation for our clients.
We have extensive experience representing injury victims throughout the country, including in Chicago. We have recovered over $360 million in settlements and verdicts. In one case, we obtained a settlement of $235,000 for a client whose jaw was fractured in a workplace slip and fall accident.
Our nationally recognized trial attorneys have also received numerous awards for their work. Founding partner Samuel Meirowitz was ranked as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers and named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. Founding partner Daniel Waserberg was also listed as a Top 100 Civil Litigator by the National Trial Lawyers. He is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court Northern District of Illinois and is a member of the American Association for Justice.
We’re proud of the high-quality legal service and representation we provide to our clients. Their testimonials speak for themselves. Below are just a few of the glowing reviews we have received for our services handling workers’ compensation claims in Chicago:
“Meirowitz & Wasserberg was very helpful in assisting me with the injury that I sustained at work. The lawyers made the process quick and easy and allowed me to focus on rehabbing my hip instead of the legal process. 5 Stars!!!!” – Vishnu Bodavula
“The construction company my brother was working for tried to fire him instead of paying for a workman’s compensation claim. Meirowitz & Wassenberg helped him get what he was due and made it an extremely easy and low-hassle experience!” – Kellen Parish
“I went straight to the Meirowitz & Wasserberg firm after I had an incident at a restaurant where I injured myself on a wet floor. They helped me out immediately, and I could never thank them more. Nothing was difficult on my end, and they handled my situation very professionally.” – Presley Campy
What To Do if You Were Injured on the Job in Chicago
If you’re hurt in a workplace accident, there are important steps you should take to preserve your right to compensation.
- Report the Injury to Your Employer Immediately
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act requires employees to report an injury to their employer within 45 days. If you fail to do so, you may lose the right to workers’ compensation benefits. While you have some time to report, insurance companies are more likely to contest your claim if you don’t take action quickly. They may argue that your injury happened outside the workplace and that your employer isn’t responsible.
To avoid this situation, notify your employer immediately after an accident. It is wise to do so in writing. Include your name, a description of the incident, and the date of your report. Your written report may become important evidence should a dispute arise.
- Document Your Injury
In the immediate aftermath of a workplace accident, you may not think to take pictures of the scene and preserve evidence for an insurance claim. However, the more evidence you have of your accident, the easier it will be to obtain compensation.
Use your phone to take pictures of your injuries and anything that contributed to the accident. For instance, if you tripped over an electrical cord and twisted your knee, take a photograph of the cord and the surrounding scene. If there are nearby witnesses, tell them you’re hurt and note down their names and contact information.
Your employer likely requires you to report accidents and injuries to a supervisor. Make a prompt report, but avoid signing paperwork before consulting with an attorney.
- Get Medical Assistance
If you’re injured, you need medical care. Go to your nearest hospital or doctor’s office for help. If your injury is severe, you may require emergency transportation. Tell the treating physician what happened and let them examine you. They’ll write a report on the extent of your injuries, which can help your credibility when you file your official claim.
- Speak With a Chicago Workers' Compensation Attorney
While it’s possible to obtain workers’ compensation benefits without legal assistance, it can put you at a disadvantage. Scheduling a consultation with a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago can help you understand your legal options and avoid mistakes that adversely impact your benefits.
When you entrust your claim to a qualified attorney at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, we’ll handle the filing process and represent you during benefits negotiation. That way, you can focus on recovering from your injuries rather than dealing with administrative paperwork.
Who Is Eligible for Workers' Compensation Benefits in Chicago?
Most employees who experience a workplace injury are eligible for workers’ compensation. That includes office staff, construction workers, day laborers, engineers, forklift operators, truck drivers, and others.
However, the insurer may refuse to pay benefits if they can prove any of the following:
- You intentionally caused your injury.
- The injury occurred on your personal time and not at the workplace.
- You were under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Your employer doesn’t have workers’ compensation insurance.
- You didn’t report the incident within 45 days.
Speaking with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer is crucial to avoid complexities that hinder your ability to collect benefits.
Types of Injuries and Illnesses Covered Under Workers' Compensation
Workers’ compensation covers virtually any illness or injury that occurs as a result of your employment. Some examples of common injuries and diseases we see include:
- Broken bones, strains, and sprains
- Back injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Cuts and lacerations
- Hearing loss from noise exposure
- Asthma and other respiratory illnesses
- Cancer due to exposure to chemicals or other cancer-causing substances
If your injury can be traced back to the workplace, you may qualify for workers’ compensation.
Workers' Compensation Benefits Available for Injured Workers in Chicago
Employees who successfully file a workers’ compensation claim may receive certain financial benefits, including the following:
- Reimbursement for past and future medical expenses related to the injury, including hospital stays, specialist visits, surgery, X-rays, diagnostic tests, and supportive medical equipment
- Wages lost during the time you’re unable to work
- Disability and vocational rehabilitation benefits
- Death benefits for your family if you die from a work-related injury or illness
Our seasoned Chicago workplace injury lawyers work tirelessly to obtain optimal case results for injured workers.
What Is the Time Limit To File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Chicago?
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act requires employees to report a work-related injury or illness to their employer within 45 days of the incident. Failing to report can result in an automatic denial of benefits.
You must file your claim within three years of the accident date or two years after receiving the last of your workers’ compensation benefits. If you fail to file on time, you may lose your right to benefits.
Most injured employees are eager to receive benefits immediately following an injury. It’s vital to speak with an attorney who can expedite the process and represent you if the insurer disputes your claim.
How To File a Workers' Compensation Claim in Illinois
To start a Chicago workers’ compensation claim, follow these steps.
1. Notify Your Employer
Illinois law requires employees to notify their employer within 45 days of a workplace accident that results in injury or illness. You can inform your employer verbally, but it is wise to do so in writing. Your report should include a date and description of the incident. If you suffer a latent occupational illness, such as cancer or asthma, the notification period begins once you become aware of the condition.
2. Wait for Benefits
Once you report an injury or illness, your employer must file a report with their insurance company. The insurer will inform you of their decision on benefits and any additional steps to take. If you disagree with their decision or there is pushback on the claim, you’ll want to seek immediate legal assistance.
3. File a Claim or Appeal With the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission
Again, you have a maximum of three years to file a claim. If an insurer disputes or denies your workers’ compensation benefits, you can also file an appeal with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. Disputed claims can be complex, and the Commission may require you to attend hearings to resolve your case. Working with a qualified attorney can help cut through the red tape.
What To Do if Your Workers' Compensation Claim Is Denied Benefits
If an insurer denies your workers’ compensation benefits, that doesn’t mean your case is over. Again, you can file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. Getting an attorney involved is critical, as they may be able to negotiate a settlement with the insurer rather than going through an extensive legal process.
To obtain legal advice on workers’ compensation in Chicago, contact Meirowitz & Wasselberg. We have extensive experience representing clients in complex cases and can assist you in resolving a claim denial.
Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals considering a workers’ compensation claim often have questions. Here are a few of the most common inquiries we hear.
How much do workers' compensation lawyers charge in Illinois?
At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, we work on a contingency fee basis. There is no consultation charge, and you’ll only pay for our services if we win your case.
What is the average workers' compensation settlement in Illinois?
The value of a workers’ compensation settlement varies according to the extent of the employee’s injuries, the length of time they’re unable to work, and other extenuating factors. The average workers’ compensation settlement is between $20,000 and $40,000, but yours can be much higher if your injury is severe. Schedule a free consultation with our work injury lawyers in Chicago to learn how much your case is worth.
Do all workers' compensation cases end in a settlement in Illinois?
Most workers’ compensation cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, our attorneys will not accept an unfair settlement that doesn’t fully account for your losses. If the insurer is unwilling to provide you with fair compensation, we are ready to fight back.
Can I fire my workers' compensation lawyer in Chicago?
Yes. You are under no obligation to continue working with an attorney who isn’t providing you with quality advice and service. If you are unsatisfied with your current work accident lawyer in Chicago, contact Meirowitz & Wasserberg for a free consultation.
Can workers' compensation stop paying you in Illinois?
Not unless the insurer has reasonable cause for doing so. For instance, your benefits may end if you’ve healed from your injury and a doctor deems you fit to work. However, the insurer should provide adequate notice of termination of benefits. If your workers’ compensation benefits are wrongfully cut short, consult our workers’ comp law firm in Chicago.
Can I be fired for filing a workers' compensation claim?
No. Filing a valid workers’ compensation claim is completely within your legal rights. If your employer fires you for filing a claim, they can be held liable for retaliation and wrongful termination.
Contact an Experienced Chicago Workers' Compensation Lawyer Today
Navigating the workers’ compensation process is time-consuming and arduous. Rather than attempting to understand all the complexities alone, put your case in the hands of a seasoned lawyer who understands Illinois workers’ compensation laws. The attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg are ready to assist you and ensure your case receives the utmost care and attention it deserves. Call (844) 446-9529 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation.
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