3 Strategies to Strengthen Your Workers’ Comp Case

 Posted on October 12, 2023 in Workers' Compensation

When you experience a workplace injury in Illinois, filing for workers’ compensation benefits is important. While the system is designed to provide support, getting your workers’ comp claim approved can often be challenging.

There are steps you can take to help build a strong case for the benefits you deserve. An Illinois lawyer can help you with the steps along the way.

1. Document Everything Related to Your Injury

Thorough documentation is essential when filing a workers’ comp claim. Be sure to gather as much evidence as possible related to your work injury, including:

• Date, time, location, and exact circumstances of the accident
• Names of witnesses or people you reported the incident to
• List of all injuries and medical treatment received
• Photos of unsafe conditions that caused the accident
• Copies of medical bills, reports, and records related to the injury
• Log of missed workdays and lost wages due to the injury

Comprehensive documentation demonstrates the validity of your claim and your efforts to seek appropriate care. Keep detailed notes about how the injury affects your daily life and work capacity as well. The more proof you can provide, the better.

2. Notify Your Employer Properly

To receive workers’ comp benefits in Illinois, you must notify your employer about the injury in a timely manner. Provide notice as soon as possible, both verbally and in writing. Be sure to get written confirmation of the notification from your employer.

Under Illinois law, you must notify your employer within 45 days of the accident or within 45 days of learning that your injury is work-related. Failure to do so could weaken your claim, so be diligent about proper employer notification.

3. Follow Up with Your Physician

Following your doctor’s treatment plan and attending all recommended appointments and therapy sessions is critical. You need medical evidence that shows you made consistent efforts to recover after the workplace injury.

Communicate regularly with your physician about your progress and discuss how the injury impacts your capacity to perform your job duties. Ask your doctor to document in writing all opinions about your condition, treatment, work limitations, or disability status.

Following physician advice and obtaining detailed medical records shows you are committed to getting better and have the documentation to pursue rightful benefits under IL workers’ comp law.

Contact a Springfield, IL Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Strengthen your case by taking these proactive steps. Discuss your situation with a Champaign, IL workers’ compensation attorney, who can guide you on any additional strategies specific to your claim. With persistence and proper legal support, you can build a compelling case. Call Kanoski Bresney at 888-826-8682 for a free consultation.