Work-related injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially taxing. When you are injured on the job, understanding the basics of workers’ compensation is critical to your case. An Arlington Heights workers’ compensation lawyer from Therman Law can answer all of your questions so you understand what is at stake.

If your workers’ compensation claim has been denied, talk to an Arlington Heights personal injury lawyer from our team today. We are very responsive and ensure that you are not just a number. Our team fights to protect your rights throughout the entire legal process.

Key Points to Understand About Workers’ Compensation

When you meet with an Arlington Heights workers’ compensation lawyer, we will explain the entire process to you. Our legal team will outline all potential losses you have and discuss the steps necessary to recover damages. To help you learn what these losses are, consider the following factors:

Eligibility: In Arlington Heights, IL, most employees are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits from their first day of employment. However, there may be exceptions for certain types of workers, such as independent contractors.
Types of Injuries Covered: Workers’ compensation typically covers injuries that occur while performing work-related duties. This includes accidents, occupational illnesses, and aggravation of pre-existing conditions due to work activities.
Benefits: Workers’ compensation benefits typically include medical expenses, wage replacement (temporary total disability benefits), permanent disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation.
No–Fault System: Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning that employees are entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the injury. Even if the worker’s negligence contributed to the accident, they may still be eligible for benefits.

Workers’ compensation seems like it should be a simple and straightforward process. It is often riddled with limitations and specific requirements that aim to make it harder for victims to recover losses. You do not have to face this legal process yourself.

Steps to Take After A Work Injury

Knowing what to do after a workers’ compensation injury occurs is one of the first tools available to you in protecting your right to a claim. In the ideal situation, you will follow these steps to ensure fair treatment of your losses. If you’re injured at work, it’s essential to take the following steps:

Notify Your Employer: Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible. In Arlington Heights, IL, you typically have 45 days to report the injury, but it’s best to do so promptly.
Seek Medical Care: Get medical attention for your injuries. Your employer may have a preferred provider network, so be sure to follow their instructions regarding medical care.
Document the Incident: Make a record of the incident, including the date, time, location, and how the injury occurred. Keep copies of any medical records, bills, and correspondence related to the injury.
Consult with an Attorney: Consider consulting with an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process. They can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.

The sooner you contact an attorney, the faster our legal team can begin working for you through this process. In any situation where you have serious injuries and losses, as well as permanent damage to your life, do not wait for the insurance company to deny your claim before contacting us. Let our legal team work on your case now.

Navigating The Claims Process

When you have an injury, it is up to you to take the proper steps for filing a claim. This process takes a number of specific steps that, if you do not follow, could impact your ability to recover fair damages. Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Arlington Heights involves several steps, including:

Reporting the Injury: Notify your employer promptly, both verbally and in writing.
Medical Evaluation: Seek medical treatment and evaluation from an approved healthcare provider.
Claims Filing: File a workers’ compensation claim with your employer’s insurance carrier. This initiates the claims process.
Claims Review: The insurance company will review your claim and may request additional information or documentation.
Benefit Determination: If your claim is approved, you’ll receive benefits, including medical coverage and compensation for lost wages.

Do not be surprised if you do not win your claim. Insurance companies are for-profit organizations. It is part of their job to find a way to reduce what they pay out, even if it is at your cost.

Why You Need an Arlington Heights Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Let our lawyer use experience and dedication to client satisfaction to help you. Navigating the workers’ compensation system can be complex, and insurance companies may sometimes deny or undervalue legitimate claims. An experienced attorney can:

Ensure you meet deadlines and requirements.
Gather evidence to support your claim.
Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
Represent you in any appeals or disputes.

Understanding the basics of workers’ compensation in Arlington Heights, IL, is essential for anyone who may face a work-related injury. Therman Law is here to provide you with the support you need during this challenging time. If you’ve been injured on the job, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation.

How Accidents Happen At Work

Accidents can occur at any place of employment. Some injuries are more severe than others, but all workplaces may contain conditions that may cause accidents.

Some of the most common workplace injuries that our workers’ compensation lawyer in Arlington Heights has seen include the following

Workplace fires
Workplace electrocutions
Delivery truck accidents
Forklift accidents
Vehicle accidents
Machinery accidents
Injuries caused by falling objects
Merchandise accidents
Accidents caused by dangerous tools
Chemical exposure
Repetitive motion stress
Accidents caused by lifting, lowering, and carrying items
Accidents caused by trips and falls.

As a victim in a workplace accident of any type, seek legal guidance as soon as possible. It is essential that you know what your rights are. Contact us even if you were hurt in another type of accident.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries

The extent of workplace injuries can be significant, especially in some of the most challenging environments. No matter what type of injury you have, seek help from a doctor to determine what losses you have.

The most common workplace injuries include:

Traumatic brain injuries
Amputations
Spinal cord damage
Burn injuries
Toxic exposure to chemicals
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Fractured bones
Bulging discs and herniated discs
Frozen shoulder
Shoulder injuries
Knee damage
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Wrist injuries
Arm injuries.

We also handle fatal work accident cases, advocating for surviving family members to receive compensation for their losses.

For immediate legal guidance, seek a consultation with our Arlington Heights workers’ compensation attorney. We help victims with all types of accident injuries.

Benefits For Permanent Disability

Permanent disability is a serious issue that affects a person’s life for a long period of time. Disability is not simple to prove. In many jurisdictions, a worker is deemed to be permanently disabled if they have suffered:

Permanent loss of both legs or arms or legs
Loss of one leg and one arm
Incurable imbecility
Incurable insanity
Permanent paralysis of both legs or both arms
Permanent paralysis of one leg and one arm
Loss of both arms or both hands
Loss of both legs or both feet
Total and permanent loss of vision in both eyes.

If you believe you have any of these injuries and losses, we recommend speaking to our legal team for immediate guidance. Do not settle your claim without legal support.

Common Reasons for Receiving A Claim Denial

Employers and insurance companies will attempt to deny a workers’ compensation claim. Sometimes, employers and insurance companies attempt to delay paying a worker’s compensation claim. The most common reasons for denying workers’ compensation claims are as follows:

The employee suffered injury but was not disabled from performing job duties.
The injured worker has recovered and may return to employment, the employee suffered from a pre-existing injury or condition that was not caused by a workplace accident.
The accident occurred before or after working hours or during a lunch break.
The employee was not acting within the course and scope of employment.
The employee works two jobs, and their claim doesn’t effectively represent their situation.

If you received a denial of compensation, do not wait to contact us for guidance on the rights in your case. Let us work with you to mitigate any of the losses you may have. Read through our client testimonials to learn more.

How to Appeal a Workers’ Compensation Denial

Receiving a denial for your workers’ compensation claim can be disheartening and stressful, especially when you rely on these benefits for medical expenses and lost wages. However, a denial doesn’t mean the end of the road.

There are several steps you can take to appeal the decision and pursue the benefits you deserve. Also, an Arlington Heights workers’ compensation lawyer from our firm is here to provide support. Here’s a guide on how to appeal a workers’ compensation denial effectively.

Understand the Reason for Denial

Before appealing, it’s crucial to understand why your claim was denied. Common reasons for denial include insufficient medical evidence, missing documentation, late reporting of the injury, or the insurer disputing that the injury is work-related.

Carefully review the denial letter from the insurance company, which should outline the specific reasons for the decision. Knowing the exact cause will help you address the issues in your appeal.

Gather Additional Evidence

Once you understand the reason for the denial, gather additional evidence to support your claim. This may include medical records, witness statements, and documentation of the accident and injury.

If your denial was due to insufficient medical evidence, consider seeking a second opinion or additional evaluations from medical professionals. Detailed and comprehensive documentation can strengthen your case significantly.

Consult With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Appealing a workers’ compensation denial can be complex and challenging. Consulting with our experienced Arlington Heights workers’ compensation lawyer can provide invaluable assistance.

We can help you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, and prepare a compelling appeal. At Therman Law, we have the experience to guide you through this process and improve your chances of a successful outcome.

File An Appeal With The Commission

In Illinois, if your workers’ compensation claim is denied, you can file an appeal with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC).

You need to submit a formal Request for Hearing form, also known as Form IC-5, to the IWCC. Make sure that you file this form within the specified timeframe, typically within 30 days of receiving the denial letter. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to appeal.

Prepare for the Hearing

Once your appeal is filed, a hearing will be scheduled where you can present your case before an arbitrator. Preparation is key to a successful hearing. Organize all your evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and any other relevant documentation.

Practice your testimony and be ready to explain clearly and concisely why you believe your claim should be approved. Your lawyer will help you prepare and represent you during the hearing.

Attend The Hearing

During the hearing, both you and the insurance company will present evidence and arguments. The arbitrator will listen to both sides and may ask questions to clarify certain points.

It’s important to remain calm and composed, answer questions honestly, and rely on your prepared evidence. Your team from Therman Law will be there to support you and present your case effectively.

Why You Need Legal Representation

When you’re injured on the job, dealing with medical treatments, paperwork, and your employer’s insurance company can become overwhelming.

Our Arlington Heights workers’ comp lawyer from Therman Law is here to help. This entire process can be frustrating and overwhelming without legal support.

With the guidance of an attorney, you do not have to face this legal process alone. Seek out our help. There is nothing to lose in doing so. Make sure you complete Form 45 to file a report with your employer.

Workers’ compensation insurance can cover medical care, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation. If you have been injured on the job, contact our Arlington Heights workers’ compensation lawyer to find out what benefits you may be entitled to.

We can also help you if your workers’ claim has been denied. Call our office today if your insurance coverage has been denied.

Contact Our Arlington Heights Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Today

If you need a workers’ compensation lawyer, contact Therman Law today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. We offer many years of experience representing clients who have been injured at their place of employment.

Call an Arlington Heights workers’ compensation attorney to learn more about the legal services we offer. We are here to help you with your workers’ compensation case.