Best Workers Compensation Lawyers in Schaumburg, IL

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Schaumburg, Illinois?

  For non-emergencies within Schaumburg, dial 311.

• Where can I get a copy of police report for incidents related to my case in Schaumburg, Illinois?

  Go to the Schaumburg Police station at 1000 W. Schaumburg Road in the metro. If you need more details about requesting police reports, call the records section at 847-882-3534.

• Can you be eligible to a workers' compensation claim if you are a union worker in Schaumburg?

  Yes. All types of workers in Schaumburg are covered, union members included, by the state's Workers' Compensation Act. Some of the benefits that can be obtained when filing this type of claim are payments for lost wages, medical costs, and vocational training. There are also advantages to being a union member if you get injured at work. Some of these advantages involve the union negotiating for job security and investigating the accident.

• When should you talk to a workers' compensation lawyer in Schaumburg?

  You should talk to a workers' compensation lawyer if your claim in Schaumburg is rejected by your employer and if there are delays in the payments you are receiving. When you have any pre-existing conditions and your employer retaliates because of the claim, you need to consult with a lawyer as soon as you can. These cases could be complex and the chances of a better case outcome are high if you have legal representation.

• What happens after an employee becomes injured in a workplace accident in Schaumburg?

  The employee in Schaumburg must notify their supervisor of the injuries as soon as possible. The supervisor, in turn, must arrange the appropriate medical care whether through an in-house or outside provider. After that, the supervisor has to report within 24 hours the workers' compensation claim to the Cook County Department of Risk Management. The First Report of Injury or Illinois Form 45 can be sent by fax at 866-839-5397 or by email at work.comp@cookcountyil.gov.

• How much time does an employee have to file a workers' compensation claim in Schaumburg?

  An employee is only given three years since the injury happened to file a workers' compensation claim in Schaumburg. If an employee previously received compensation from a claim, the second claim has to be filed within two years after receiving the last payment. The employee could be prohibited from obtaining compensation when the required form, Application for Adjustment of Claim, does not reach the Illinois Industrial Commission by this time.

• What are some useful tips when filing a workers' compensation claim in Schaumburg?

  If you are filing a workers' compensation claim in Schaumburg, you should consent to a drug test by your employer. It is important for you to speak to your supervisor about the accident but be wary of discussing it with your other co-workers. Never make social media posts about your situation until your case has been successfully resolved. Most importantly, try to get treatment from an insurance-accredited medical provider so the expenses can be covered.

• What does a workers’ compensation attorney do?

  Workers’ compensation attorneys help injured employees recover monetary benefits following workplace accidents and illnesses. Attorneys in this practice area provide legal advice, gather evidence, review medical records, prepare petitions, and negotiate insurance settlements. They also represent clients’ interests during court cases and administrative hearings overseen by state workers’ compensation boards.

• What are the benefits of filing a workers’ compensation claim?

  Workers’ compensation insurance gives employees access to vital cash benefits in case of workplace injuries or illnesses. Filing a claim can help injured workers pay for medical care, physical therapy, and essential living expenses while they recover from a temporary or permanent disability. Workers’ compensation also pays for funeral and burial expenses following fatal workplace injuries.

• How long does a workers’ compensation claim stay open?

  Workers’ compensation claims typically remain open as long as the individual is receiving treatment or until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement. This milestone varies for each person, and it can take years to determine whether a disability is temporary or permanent. Additionally, there’s a fixed time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations can be anywhere from six months to two years from the date of the injury or the date of the last payment, depending on the worker’s state of residence. A qualified attorney can explain your state’s specific rules.

• What is the average payout for a workers’ compensation claim?

  Nationally, the average workers’ compensation claimant receives $21,800. Payouts range from $2,000 on the low end to upwards of $60,000 for well-compensated workers in high-income areas. The exact amount depends on the claimant’s average weekly paycheck, the extent of the injuries, and their state of residence. Individuals who accept an insurance settlement or initial offer typically receive less than those who negotiate or have an attorney represent them before an arbitrator or workers’ compensation judge.

• How are settlements calculated in workers’ compensation cases?

  Settlements typically cover current and future medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation or retraining, and two-thirds of lost wages. The total amount may vary depending on whether the worker’s disability is temporary or permanent. Workers’ compensation also pays death benefits, including funeral expenses and two-thirds of wages for up to 25 years or a state-specified maximum.

• What is workers comp?

  Workers' compensation is an insurance program that provides medical care, rehabilitation, and other benefits for employees who are injured or fall ill while performing assigned work duties. Common reasons for filing a workers' comp claim include slip and fall injuries, machinery accidents, or muscle strains while lifting heavy items.

  All businesses must carry some form of workers' compensation insurance, with minimum guidelines imposed by the state of residence. Workers' comp is intended to safeguard both the employee and the employer by providing a social safety net. This can protect companies from civil suits and guarantee that injured employees receive the benefits they need.

• What does workers comp cover?

  Workers' compensation insurance covers benefits associated with a wide range of accidents and illnesses that may occur in a place of work. This can include:

  • Medical benefits, such as payments for treatments, hospitalizations, or surgeries
  • Compensation for lost wages while not working
  • Coverage for ongoing care, such as physical therapy
  • Continued access to benefits, including insurance provided through an employer
  • Disability benefits, if an injury results in a permanent loss of functioning in some manner
  • Death benefits and funeral expense coverage

  How and when workers' compensation coverage applies depends on the illness or injury in question and the results of a medical exam. An unsatisfactory ruling by an insurer can be appealed with help from a workers' comp attorney.

  
  

• What does a workers comp defense attorney do?

  A workers' compensation defense attorney is a legal professional who represents the employer in a workers’ comp case. Typically, the defense attorney works to minimize the employer’s liability and reduce the amount of benefits to be paid out.

• When does workers comp start paying?

  How and when workers' comp starts paying can depend on both the circumstances and the state in which an injury took place. In most areas, benefits related to medical care start paying out immediately, even before a claim is formally processed or accepted. Once a case is approved, injured workers may be entitled to other benefits, including coverage for lost wages.

• How much is workers comp insurance for self-employed people?

  Workers' compensation isn't required for self-employed individuals, but those working in dangerous industries, such as construction or manufacturing, may choose to purchase policies. In some cases, employers may request this coverage when hiring a contractor. While costs will vary based on industry and location, most freelancers can expect to pay around $25 to $50 per month.

• How do I file a workers comp claim?

  A workers' comp claim is best filed as soon as an injury occurs. In some states, there are time limits, such as one month following an incident.

  After an injury, an employee must notify their employer. The employer must then provide access to the necessary forms and offer guidance. Employees must fill out all forms and return them to the employer who then files them with the insurer. Some states have additional requirements, including assessment by a medical provider. Once the paperwork has been filed, the insurance provider issues a ruling. If the ruling is unfavorable, the employee may choose to appeal the decision with the support of an attorney.