Workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois provide medical care and reimbursement for lost wages for employees who suffer work-related injuries and illnesses. These benefits often play an important role in helping workers recover from their conditions while continuing to be able to support themselves and their families. The following are three common questions Rockford workers have about workers’ compensation and their eligibility to receive these benefits.
Questions About Illinois Workers’ Compensation
As experienced Rockford workers’ compensation attorneys, the following are three of the most common questions we hear from injured clients:
1. What Types of Injuries or Illnesses Are Covered By Workers’ Compensation In Illinois?
As outlined by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, workers who suffer injuries or illnesses arising out of or during the course of their employment may be entitled to benefits. Common types of injuries include:
- Muscle, tendon, and ligament strains, sprains, and tears,
- Broken bones or multiple fractures;
- Cuts, lacerations, and amputations;
- Thermal or chemical burns;
- Back and neck injuries, such as fractured vertebrae or ruptured disks;
- Spinal cord injuries;
- Head injuries, such as skull fractures, concussions, or traumatic brain injuries;
- Injuries that result in the loss of vision or hearing.
Occupational illnesses are also covered. These may include respiratory disorders and lung disease caused by breathing in asbestos fibers, as well as certain types of cancer due to chemical or radiation exposure.
2. What Types of Benefits Am I Entitled To Receive?
Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, workers who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses may be entitled to the following types of benefits:
- Medical care, which includes diagnostic testing and treatment;
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits, which reimburse workers while they recover from their injuries;
- Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits, if the injured worker can return to work, but is placed on light duty;
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits, if the worker can return to their job but suffers permanent disability or disfigurement;
- Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits, if their injury or illness prevents them from ever returning to work;
- Vocational rehabilitation/maintenance benefits, to allow retraining for another occupation;
- Death benefits, which provide help for family members in the event the worker dies as the result of their injury or illness.
3. What Should I Do If I Suffer A Job-Related Injury Or Illness?
If you are diagnosed with an occupational illness, you should let your employer know as soon as you are aware of your condition. If you are injured on the job, you should notify your employer or supervisor immediately and seek medical attention. Your employer is required to do the following:
- Provide first aid and medical care;
- Notify their insurance carrier or workers’ compensation administrator;
- Begin making temporary disability payments if you are unable to work for more than three days or notify you if any additional information is required to process your claim.
Your Worker’s Compensation Claim
If you suffer an on-the-job injury or occupational illness and are not getting the benefits you are entitled to, reach out to our Rockford workers’ compensation lawyers. At Tuite Law, we act as a strong legal advocate to assist you in getting the benefits you need to recover from your injury or illness. Call or contact our office online to request a free consultation today. (815) 965-5777.