Every year, more than 3.2 million workers suffer serious work-related injuries and illnesses. States such as Illinois have passed workers’ compensation laws to ensure these injured workers are protected. These laws are in place to ensure that injured workers receive the benefits they are entitled to, including medical benefits and a percentage of their wages.
Although these cases should be straightforward, far too many employers and their insurance companies look for ways to prevent injured workers from receiving those benefits. While not every workplace injury claim necessitates legal representation, four key signs indicate you should seriously consider hiring an Illinois workers’ compensation lawyer.
Denied or Delayed Claims
One of the most compelling reasons to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer is when your claim is denied or subject to unwarranted delays. Insurance companies often deny claims or drag out the approval process, leaving injured workers without the benefits they need. If your claim has been denied or the insurance company is delaying paying you the benefits, your attorney can assess your case, determine the reasons for the denial, gather additional evidence if needed, and appeal the decision or expedite the claims process.