Workers' Compensation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is workers’ compensation insurance required by law in Illinois?
Illinois law requires business owners to obtain workers’ compensation insurance to cover their employees who get injured. Sole owners, business partners, corporate officers, and individuals from limited liability organizations may excluded themselves from insurance coverage. The average estimation is that 91% of Illinois employees are covered by the Workers’ Compensation Act. A business that intentionally neglects to obtain insurance can be fined up to $500 for each day of non-compliance, with a maximum fine of $10,000.
What does employer’s liability insurance coverage consist of?
What does workers’ compensation insurance cover?
Do self-employed or independent contractors need workers’ compensation insurance?
How much time do I have to file a claim?
Preferably, you should notify your direct manager, supervisor or employer of a work-related injury and/or occupational disease as soon as you become aware of it. In the event of an accident, report the time, date, place and circumstances. While there are other time examinations, you should report your injury to your employer no later than 45 days from the date on which the injury occurred.
Does my employer get to choose my doctor?
An injured employee is usually given the option to choose up to two doctors. Generally, the employer or insurance company should pay for related, reasonable and necessary treatment as determined by the doctor, as well as any physicians or hospitals to whom that doctor refers the injured worker.
What constitutes permanent disability?
Permanent disability is the complete or partial loss of a specific body part, or loss of use of the body as a whole. Essentially, when the injured worker is unable to do things with a body part that he or she was able to do before the injury. Compensation for permanent disability depends upon the body part and the extent of the damage from the injury. For specifics, please contact Vasilatos Injury Law for further explanation.
Does it matter whose fault an accident was?
Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. Benefits are available regardless of who or what caused the work-related accident, with a few exceptions.
Can my employer punish me for seeking workers’ compensation?
What can I do while I wait for my claim to be processed?
While workers’ compensation benefits are temporarily denied or in litigation, you may be able to seek interim assistance from Illinois Public Aid, State Unemployment Insurance, or Social Security Disability.
What are the steps to take when injured at work?
If you are injured at work you need to follow these steps as quickly as possible:
- Go to your doctor or emergency room and receive a medical assessment and treatment.
- Seek a personal doctor and receive an assessment.
- Hire a qualified workers’ compensation attorney.
- Notify your immediate supervisor, manager or superior about the injury.
With more than 20 years of experience, we understand the urgency of your case. That’s why we offer consultations at your home, hospital or simply via phone to meet your schedule needs.
To learn more about our areas of expertise, or to discuss your workers’ compensation claim with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer, contact Vasilatos Injury Law today. We have three offices, in Chicago, Flossmoor, and Evanston, and we’ll help you get back on your feet.
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
Working Together To Serve Your Needs
Vasilatos Injury Law is the best injury law firm in the City of Chicago. Attorney Vasilatos handled my worker’s compensation case with professionalism, and worked hard to ensure I received the benefits I was entitled to. Whenever I called, my calls were answered or returned promptly. This was very important to me since other attorney’s never return calls or are never available to talk to you.
I have referred Vasilatos Injury Law to my friends and family who have also experienced excellent results.
SHIRLEY DILLARD
I came to Vasilatos Law almost 20 years ago. I had a workers' compensation case with my former employer and Mr. Vasilatos always was and still is a true gentleman. He cares about his clients, he listens, gives great legal advice, and is always a phone call away. He is honest and will explain everything in detail. He is patient, sincere, very knowledgeable, extremely professional, and will always return your calls in a timely manner. I recommend Mr. Vasilatos and Vasilatos Law as the best law firm to represent you in your workers' compensation or personal injury case to anyone who wants results.
I hired Vasilatos Law firm on more than one occasion and they always delivered the best results. Vasilatos Law is the best workers' compensation and personal injury attorneys you can have on your side.
F. ZORBA
Get In Touch With Us
If you have questions regarding any aspect of workers’ compensation or personal injury, we invite you to call our office or complete the email form provided to the right.
Main Office
159 N. Sangamon Street, Suite 200, Chicago, IL 60607
Phone: 312-559-8339
Fax: (312) 356-9994
Toll-Free: 1-877-INJ-LAW1
Flossmoor Office
19801 Governors Highway, Suite 140 Flossmoor, IL 60422
Phone: (708) 283-0600
Fax: (708) 283-6911
Toll-Free: 1-877-INJ-LAW1