A Workers’ Compensation Claim is a a claim filed against your employer and paid by its workers compensation insurance carrier. To be entitled to benefits, you must have sustained an injury while in the course of your employment. Whether it was your fault, someone else’s fault or no-fault, when you are injured on the job, you are entitled to workers compensation benefits.
If you have suffered a work-related injury, you are entitled to three benefits:
- 100% of your medical bills paid
- While you are medically unable to work, weekly payment for 66% of your average weekly pay tax free
- A payment for the permanent injury that you suffered
Pursuing your benefits does not mean you are suing your employer. Workers’ Compensation claims are filed with the Illinois Industrial Commission, an Illinois State agency. Disputes often arise when the insurance company suspends paying your weekly salary benefits or denies medical treatment your doctor decides is necessary. When that happens, you need an experienced attorney to fight to protect your rights. When a dispute arises, an Arbitrator appointed by the Governor conducts hearings to determine your rights and resolve any questions about the benefits the workers’ compensation carrier must pay.
It is against the law for an employer to fire you because you are pursuing benefits under the Workers’ Compensation Act.