Workers’ Compensation
A workplace injury not only causes severe pain but can be detrimental to your earning potential due to recovery time. The inability to earn income, coupled with your extensive lineup of medical bills, is financially devastating. A workplace injury can leave unsure of where to turn next. If you were injured while on the job, our legal team can help you seek benefits under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.
Workers’ compensation is a state-mandated system of benefits that pays for the medical costs associated with job-related injuries or illness. The personal injury attorneys at Scott W. Sheen & Associates have substantial experience in all aspects of workers’ compensation, including subsequent injuries after returning to work. We will guide you throughout the claims process to recover the most significant compensation for your work injury.
Workers’ compensation replaces a portion of the lost wages if the employee requires modified work duties below their current rate of pay or is unable to return to any employment. Unlike an employee’s wages, workers’ compensation benefits are not taxable. However, obtaining these benefits can be a confusing process.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD)
Payable to employees who are never able to return to employment
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
Payable to employees who have been able to return to work with modified duties
Disfigurement
Recovery for scarring and burn injuries
When you suffer a workplace injury, the claims process for workers’ compensation can be very complex and bureaucratic. The application forms are incredibly detailed, and even the slightest error could result in a denial of your benefits. The attorneys at Scott W. Sheen & Associates will help you understand your case’s complexities while obtaining the benefits you rightfully deserve.
Common Types of Work Injuries
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Carpal tunnel resulting from repetitive activities like typing, causing numbness and weakness. Tendonitis can occur in the hips, elbows, wrists, knees, or ankles.
Back Muscle Sprains
Lifting or pushing heavy objects, or resulting from a slip and fall
Shoulder Injuries
Dislocated shoulders caused by abnormal twisting or bending of the shoulder
Knee Injuries and Torn Ligaments
Torn ligaments, including ACL and MCL tears in the knees, can occur from squatting and lifting.
Stress Fractures
Overused, fatigued muscles cannot absorb stress and transfer it to a bone, causing tiny cracks.
Broken Bones
Usually caused by slip and falls or being struck by moving objects
Head Injuries
Concussions and other blows to the head can cause traumatic brain injury
Spinal Injuries
Bulging discs and herniations
Spinal Cord Injuries
Falls from any elevation, vehicle accidents, and being struck by cranes or heavy equipment can result in paralysis.
Electrical Shock
Construction workers, telephone pole and electrical workers may contact live wires.
Exposure to Toxic Substances
Chemicals, asbestos, or mold can result in respiratory problems, skin irritations, and organ damage.
Burns
Due to fire, explosions, and chemical exposures
Under Illinois Workers’ Compensation laws, compensation does not apply if the employee has acted outside of the scope of their doctor’s orders. To ensure you have a viable workers’ compensation claim, you must obey their activity restrictions.