Workplace injuries are very common and can range from minor to extremely serious. If you have been injured on the job, you are now faced with navigating the Chicago Workers’ Compensation system while you are trying to recuperate. This can be a difficult task, especially if your employer is uncooperative.
Worker’s Compensation Insurance
Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to protect both the employer and the employee and is required by Illinois law. When a worker is injured, he or she is entitled to file a claim for medical expenses related to the injury. The employee may also be eligible to receive compensation for lost wages. In exchange for these benefits, the employee is not allowed to sue his or her employer for damages related to the injury, even if the employer would normally be held liable.
Claims Process
Resolving a workers’ compensation claim quickly is beneficial to both the employer and employee. It helps the employee concentrate on recovering from his or her injury and may allow them to return to work sooner. It helps the employer by reducing the number of days it takes to get their employee back to work.
Despite these facts, some employers will stall the claims process by not processing the necessary paperwork in a timely manner or by trying to convince the insurance provider to deny the claim altogether. Why would an employer do this? The answer is simple, the more claims a company has, the higher their insurance premiums, and the employer may simply want to save money.
Additionally, some employers feel that certain types of injury claims are illegitimate. They often believe that an employee who files a repetitive stress injury claim (such as carpal tunnel syndrome or a lumbar back injury) is simply trying to game the system to collect disability or some other financial gain.
Shea Law Group
If you have been injured while performing your job, and you believe your employer is going to stall or try to deny your claim, you will want to speak with an experienced attorney right away. By reaching out to our dedicated team of Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Shea Law Group, you will be ensuring your rights are protected and your financial future remains secure.
Give us a call today at (877)-365-0040 to book your free, no-obligation consultation. There is absolutely no risk, as we never charge a fee unless we collect for you.
