Common Mistakes That Can Derail Your Workers' Compensation Claim 

 Posted on December 09, 2022 in Workers' Compensation

Work injuries can have a burdensome effect on your life, career, and well-being. Luckily, you are likely eligible for workers' compensation if you are injured on the job. Workers' compensation can be a lifesaver when dealing with the aftermath of an injury since it allows the injured to pursue compensation for their injury. This compensation may be used for medical and rehabilitation costs, lost wages, a reduction in earning capacity, and more. If you live in Illinois and were injured on the job, consider yourself fortunate, as Illinois requires employers to provide workers' compensation insurance for nearly all employees. 

Workers' compensation can be tricky, particularly if you are without a knowledgeable workers' compensation attorney. Without a capable attorney, making simple but costly mistakes is easy. If you have been injured on the job and wish to pursue workers' compensation and do not wish to make any errors while filing your claim, contact an attorney to help make the process as seamless as possible. 

Common Mistakes When Filing Your Claim

Illinois law states that you must notify your employer within 45 days when you are injured on the job. This notice can come either orally or in writing. Once you have done this, it is time to file your claim, referred to as an application of adjustment claim. This claim will be filed through the Workers' Compensation Commission of Illinois. Common mistakes when filing your claim include the following:

• Failing to get timely medical treatment – This can crush your hopes of pursuing compensation since getting prompt medical care is at the backbone of your claim. If you do not get medical assistance immediately, the insurance company may argue that your injury is non-serious or unrelated to work. It is also important to remember that just because your injury does not hurt too badly initially does not mean your symptoms will not worsen in the days following. 

• Failing to document accident details – When you are injured, immediately record everything that happened regarding your injury. It will become more challenging to remember what happened as time passes. Document the details of your accident to help ensure that you do not forget anything. 

• Withholding information from your attorney – Do not withhold information from your attorney. They are there to help you receive the best settlement possible. 

Contact a Bloomingdale Workers' Compensation Attorney

Do not let the fear of the complex workers' compensation process prevent you from pursuing compensation. If you have been injured on the job, contact the esteemed law office of David W. Clark, P.C, where the skillful Wheaton workers' compensation lawyer will fight to obtain the compensation you may be entitled to. Call 630-665-5678 for a free consultation. 

Sources:

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/iwcc/about/Pages/insurance.aspx

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/iwcc/Documents/icpnFORM.pdf