What Injuries Are Covered Under Illinois Workers’ Compensation?
The workers’ compensation system in Illinois is fairly robust and is designed to provide compensation to most individuals who sustain on-the-job injuries. Here, we want to look at what types of injuries are covered under the Illinois workers’ compensation system. We also want to examine the timeline for reporting workplace injuries so that you can recover the compensation you need if you are hurt on the job.
Illinois Workers’ Compensation is No-Fault
The workers’ compensation system in Illinois is considered a no-fault system. This means that individuals can recover compensation for their workplace injuries regardless of who caused the injury. Anytime a person sustains an injury while performing work-related duties will likely be able to recover compensation.
Traumatic Injuries
The most obvious example of workplace injuries that will be covered by the Illinois workers’ compensation system are traumatic injuries. Traumatic injuries can occur in a wide variety of ways, and they can happen in any workplace. This includes, but is not limited to, incidents that lead to:
- Lacerations or puncture wounds
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Severe sprains or strains
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash injuries
- Amputations
- Crush injuries
- Significant bleeding
- Scarring or disfigurement
Occupational Illnesses
individuals can also receive workers’ compensation payments if they sustain an occupational injury or illness caused by the workplace. These injuries and illnesses can be harder to pinpoint on the workplace because they typically occur over longer periods of time as a result of worker exposure to hazardous elements or repetitive motions. Some of the most common occupational illnesses that individuals can recover compensation for include the following:
- Hearing loss caused by loud workplaces
- Occupational dermatitis
- Occupational story diseases or illnesses
- Occupational cancers
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Stress and mental health illnesses
Pre-Existing Conditions Made Worse
Individuals can also recover compensation for any pre-existing injuries that they had that were made worse by workplace conditions. For example, suppose an individual has previously sustained a back injury not related to the current workplace. If their on-the-job activities make this injury worse or “reactivate” this injury, they should be able to recover compensation for any expenses arising due to the circumstance.
Even if a workplace accident accelerates the need for treatment that an individual would likely have needed in the future, this should still be covered under workers’ compensation insurance in Illinois.
What is Not Covered?
There may be various types of injuries that are not covered by workers’ compensation in Chicago. This includes:
- Injuries that occurred during the work commute if not performing work-related duties
- Injuries that occur on non paid breaks
- Injuries at recreational activities, such as workplace happy hours, company picnics, or company social events
- Injuries that occur if an employee was under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Injuries that occur due to fighting or horse playing in the workplace
Speak to an Attorney Today
If you or somebody you care about has sustained a workplace injury but are having trouble recovering compensation, you need to reach out to an attorney today. A skilled Chicago workers’ compensation attorney can handle every aspect of these claims on your behalf. This will include filing the workers’ compensation claim, handling any appeal necessary, and taking care of any third-party injury lawsuits.