Behavior That Can Derail Your Workers’ Comp Claim

In Illinois, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if you are injured at work. However, certain behaviors and actions can damage your case. Learn more about this topic in this article, and if you have legal questions, speak to our Antioch workers’ comp lawyers at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C.

Essential Facts About Illinois Workers’ Compensation

If you need to file for workers’ compensation in Illinois, it is essential to understand some critical aspects of the law:

• You have 45 days from the accident date to inform your employer of the accident, but the sooner the better.
• There is a three-year time limit to file your workers’ compensation claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.
• Depending on the nature and extent of your injuries, you may be entitled to medical care, temporary total disability, temporary partial disability, permanent partial disability, or permanent total disability. Your family may be eligible for death benefits if you die from your injury or illness.

Behavior And Actions That Can Derail Your Workers’ Comp Claim

Workers’ compensation in Illinois is intended to provide you with medical and wage benefits during your recovery. However, there are things that you can do that can damage your claim, so it is always best to have your case handled by a workers’ compensation lawyer:

Failing To Report Your Injury

Nothing will derail your workers’ compensation claim faster than not reporting the injury on time. The law requires you to report it to your employer within 45 days, but the longer you wait, the more likely the claim will be challenged. Even if you have a minor work injury, promptly report it to your employer.

Ignoring Work Restrictions

If your physician puts work restrictions in place when you return to work, you must follow them. If the insurance provider can prove that you are doing things your doctor says you cannot, you will likely get less compensation, and the claim could be denied outright.

Not Telling The Doctor About Your Injury Specifics

Being as detailed as possible with your doctor about your injuries and pain is essential. Minimizing the pain you are experiencing or not describing to the doctor how you were injured could affect your claim. For example, if your doctor does not know you have severe back pain from a fall at work, they will have no reason to prescribe treatment, which can derail your claim.

Not Disclosing A Previous Injury

You also should disclose a significant previous injury that could affect your current work-related injury. If you suffer a similar injury at work, you could have your claim denied.

Contact Our Antioch Workers’ Comp Lawyers Today

If you were in an accident at work in Illinois, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills and lost earnings through workers’ compensation.  However, workers’ comp claims are tricky, and getting maximum benefits without an attorney’s help is challenging. Contact our Antioch workers’ comp lawyers at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. for assistance with your case at (847) 395-2200.