As a member of Springfield’s hard-working class, you take pride in showing up to work on time and doing your job well. The last thing you wanted to worry about was losing income from getting injured at work.
If you have found yourself in this situation, there are some things you should know about how workers’ compensation can protect your family’s financial future while you focus on recovering.
How Can the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act Help Me?
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act became law in 1911 to protect injured employees like you through financial benefits. These benefits help offset the cost of missing work and other financial hardships, like physical therapy, surgeries, home modifications, or even childcare. You are typically eligible to receive benefits after an on-the-job injury, regardless of who is responsible, because Illinois has a no-fault benefit system. Depending on the severity of your disability, you may be eligible for up to 2/3 of your average weekly wages in compensation.
Where Do I Start?
Before applying for workers’ compensation benefits, you should schedule a visit with your doctor as soon as possible to help you understand the scope of your injury. You should then notify your employer of the incident and resulting injury. You must do so within 45 days, or they can legally deny your claim to benefits. If your injury is from prolonged use or trauma, you should notify your employer as soon as you know the condition exists. Be sure to provide your employer with as much information as possible, such as the location of the injury, time and date, and any witnesses who can corroborate your claim.
Knowing the details of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act can help protect you and your family from the financial burden of a workplace injury.