Are Part-Time Workers Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?

Both full-time and part-time workers in Illinois are eligible for workers’ compensation if they are injured on the job. By filing a claim, part-time employees can return to work faster. By understanding your rights and talking with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, you can recover your losses more quickly.

Understand Workers’ Compensation in Illinois

Employers in Illinois are required to offer workers’ compensation for employees who work in a full-time or part-time capacity. The purpose of workers’ compensation is to compensate employees who are injured on the job while executing their assigned roles. It helps workers get the financial resources they need so they can return to work in less time. As such, workers do not have to demonstrate who is at fault. However, they cannot sue their employer or colleagues. 

Steps Part-Time Workers Should Take to File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

It is important to know how to file a workers’ compensation claim in Illinois so you can receive financial assistance for your losses. Workers are required to report their injury within 45 days of its occurrence or discovery.

When reporting your injury or illness to your employer, it is important to provide detailed information. Include the date and time of the accident or diagnosis, details of your injury or condition, information about witnesses, photos or videos, and any other relevant facts that are important to your claim.

You will also need to complete and submit a claim form, which will be reviewed and handled by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. You will likely be required to attend a hearing as part of the process to resolve your claim. 

What Part-Time Workers Can Recover in a Workers’ Compensation Claim

Workers’ compensation damages are limited and primarily cover your medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, and funeral and burial expenses as needed. During a claim, the value of your financial losses and future care needs will be evaluated to determine how much you can recover per 820 ILCS 305/8.

For example, workers can generally recover 66 ⅔ of their average weekly wage in benefits to cover the value of their lost wages. A workers’ compensation lawyer can help you accurately calculate the value of these losses and negotiate a fair workers’ compensation settlement.

Compensation in Third-Party Claims 

If you were injured on the job by someone other than your employer or colleague, you may have the right to file a third-party claim. In these types of cases, you can recover larger settlements and a wider variety of losses, including pain and suffering, and emotional distress. These types of claims are often filed against parties such as motorists, property owners, and manufacturers. 

Seek Help From a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Attorney to Navigate Your Claim

Workers’ compensation claims can be challenging at times, and having an advocate on your side can make a difference in the outcome of your claim. Our workers’ compensation lawyers at Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman can provide clarity on complex issues, help ensure your claim is filed correctly, and negotiate the value of your claim.  Contact a workers’ compensation attorney in Chicago at (312) 586-1700 today for legal guidance.