Workers Compensation Law

Workplace injuries can be devastating, leaving employees facing medical bills, lost wages, and uncertainty about their future. Fortunately, Illinois law requires employers to provide workers’ compensation benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. If you or a loved one has been injured on the job, the Illinois Balanced and Restorative Justice Project (IBARJI) is here to help.

Our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers, ensuring they receive the full benefits they are entitled to. We provide aggressive legal representation while applying the principles of restorative justice, ensuring a fair and balanced resolution for all parties involved.

What Is Workers’ Compensation?

Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated insurance program that provides benefits to employees who suffer job-related injuries or illnesses. In Illinois, workers’ compensation covers most employees, regardless of fault, meaning you do not have to prove that your employer was negligent to receive benefits.

✅ Medical Benefits – Coverage for doctor visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
✅ Lost Wages – Compensation for temporary or permanent disability.
✅ Vocational Rehabilitation – Training and assistance if you cannot return to your previous job.
✅ Death Benefits – Financial support for families of workers who die from work-related injuries.

If your workers’ compensation claim is denied or your employer refuses to cooperate, IBARJI can fight for your rights and ensure you receive full benefits.

Common Workplace Injuries Covered by Workers’ Compensation

Workplace injuries can happen in any industry—from construction sites and factories to offices and retail stores. Common work-related injuries that qualify for workers’ compensation include:

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls

✅ Wet floors, uneven surfaces, or cluttered workspaces can cause serious injuries.
✅ Falls from ladders or scaffolding often result in broken bones or spinal injuries.

2. Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)

✅ Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive motions.
✅ Chronic back pain due to poor ergonomics or lifting heavy objects.

3. Machinery and Equipment Accidents

✅ Getting caught in machines or suffering crush injuries.
✅ Defective equipment leading to burns, electrocution, or amputations.

4. Exposure to Harmful Substances

✅ Toxic chemical exposure causing burns, respiratory diseases, or poisoning.
✅ Hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure in industrial environments.

5. Workplace Violence and Assault

✅ Injuries from co-worker altercations or criminal attacks in high-risk industries.

If you suffered a workplace injury, our legal team at IBARJI can help you file a claim and secure maximum compensation.

Steps to Take After a Workplace Injury

If you have been injured at work, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:

1. Report the Injury Immediately

✅ Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible.
✅ In Illinois, you must report your injury within 45 days, or you risk losing benefits.

2. Seek Medical Treatment

✅ Visit an approved doctor for medical care.
✅ Keep all medical records and follow treatment plans.

3. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim

✅ Your employer should file a claim with their workers’ compensation insurance.
✅ If they fail to do so, you can file a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC).

4. Consult a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

✅ If your claim is denied or your employer retaliates, seek legal help.
✅ IBARJI can assist with appealing denied claims and negotiating fair settlements.

Common Reasons for Workers’ Compensation Denials

Unfortunately, employers and insurance companies often deny workers’ compensation claims. Some common reasons include:

🚫 Failure to Report the Injury on Time – Missing the 45-day deadline.
🚫 Claiming the Injury Was Not Work-Related – Employers may argue your injury happened outside of work.
🚫 Disputing the Severity of the Injury – Insurers may claim you can still work or your injury is not serious.
🚫 Pre-Existing Conditions – Denying claims by saying your injury was due to a prior health issue.
🚫 Retaliation or Employer Pressure – Some employers may threaten termination or pressure workers not to file claims.

If your claim was denied, we will fight for an appeal and make sure you get the benefits you deserve.

Additional Compensation Beyond Workers’ Compensation

While workers’ compensation covers medical expenses and lost wages, it does not provide compensation for pain and suffering. In some cases, you may be able to file a third-party personal injury lawsuit if:

✅ A defective product or equipment caused your injury.
✅ A contractor or third party (not your employer) was responsible for your injury.
✅ You suffered workplace injuries due to safety violations or employer negligence.

Our legal team will evaluate your case and determine whether you qualify for additional compensation through a third-party lawsuit.

How IBARJI Can Help with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

At IBARJI, we understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be to navigate the workers’ compensation process. Our experienced attorneys are here to:

✅ File your claim properly to avoid delays or denials.
✅ Appeal denied claims to get you the benefits you deserve.
✅ Negotiate fair settlements with insurance companies.
✅ Represent you at hearings before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC).
✅ Protect you from employer retaliation if they try to fire, demote, or harass you for filing a claim.

We provide strong legal advocacy to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your workplace injuries.

Why Choose IBARJI for Workers’ Compensation Cases?

At IBARJI, we believe in justice, fairness, and protecting injured workers’ rights. Clients trust us because:

✅ Experienced Workers’ Compensation Attorneys – Years of experience handling Illinois workplace injury claims.
✅ Restorative Justice Approach – We seek balanced solutions while maximizing compensation.
✅ No Upfront Fees – We work on a contingency basis—you pay nothing unless we win.
✅ Personalized Legal Support – Every case is unique, and we provide tailored strategies.
✅ Proven Track Record – Successfully helping clients obtain maximum benefits and settlements.

We fight for injured workers and their families, ensuring they receive the justice and financial support they need.

Contact IBARJI for Workers’ Compensation Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has suffered a workplace injury, don’t wait to seek legal help. Illinois law has strict deadlines, and missing them can jeopardize your benefits. Contact IBARJI today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

📞 Call Us Today: +1 412-581-6739
📧 Email Us: info@ibarji.org

Let us help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and fight for your rightful benefits. Schedule your free consultation today!