Workers who are injured on the job are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, this is a no-fault wage replacement system that pays lost wages and medical benefits regardless of how the accident occurred. Workers’ compensation protects employers from lawsuits in most cases unless the injury results from willful or deliberate safety violations on the part of the employer—but this is rare.
Most workers in the state are covered under workers’ compensation, including those hired in Illinois but injured while working in another state when the employer’s primary place of business is in Illinois. Depending on the situation, independent contractors may be eligible for benefits.
When you file for workers’ compensation, you may be asked to undergo an independent medical examination – i.e., from a medical provider other than your normal doctor. It is important that you speak to a knowledgeable Plainfield, IL workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible after your workplace accident.