In Illinois, injured workers can receive workers’ compensation benefits for a variety of injuries. Just because you were injured on the job in Illinois does not mean you will receive workers’ compensation benefits. Below are some examples of injuries that are covered by Illinois workers’ compensation laws.
repetitive trauma
Workers can recover benefits for injuries resulting from repetitive motion when those motions are necessary to complete job-related tasks. One of the most common types of repetitive trauma injuries is carpal tunnel syndrome, which typically results from constant computer use. Additionally, repetitive hammering with a heavy tool over time can lead to repetitive traumatic injuries to the arms. Even standing for extended periods can constitute repetitive trauma to the leg if standing is required to perform a work-related task.
Traumatic Physical Injuries
An employee may receive benefits for a traumatic physical injury if it occurs while performing a specific work-related activity. For example, when a worker falls from a ladder and breaks his leg, that worker may receive benefits because the injury occurred simultaneously with a specific work-related incident. Similarly, a worker can recover workers’ compensation benefits for hyperextending their arm while reaching to restock a shelf at work. Work-related traumatic physical injuries represent the most common claim under Illinois workers’ compensation law.
Occupational Diseases
When workers are diagnosed with illnesses resulting from exposure to elements on the job that they would not normally be exposed to off the job, they can recover workers’ compensation benefits. For example, a coal miner can sue for lung disease caused by inhaling coal dust on the job.
Mental Injuries
Workers can receive benefits for mental injuries that arise from employment. There are two types of mental insults, those that arise from emotional stress and those that arise from physical injury. An example of a mental injury arising from a physical injury is when a worker is struck on the head with a piece of equipment and suffers memory loss. An example of a mental injury arising from emotional stress is when an employee witnesses a hand being amputated at work and suffers insomnia as a result of witnessing the event.
In our opinion, the best work injury attorneys almost exclusively handle Illinois workers’ compensation matters. Because they are focused in one area, we believe they are best suited to learn about the Arbitrator and the laws and achieve the best results for their clients. Because these attorneys focus on workers’ compensation, they are familiar with the laws and are more likely to maximize the compensation awarded to their clients.