6 Common Mistakes To Avoid in Illinois Workers’ Comp Claims

 Posted on September 12, 2024 in Workers' Compensation

In Illinois, laws require employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage. If you are injured at work or become ill due to work-related causes, you have the right to file a workers’ comp claim to receive benefits. Unfortunately, insurance companies do not like paying claims and may try to reduce the amount you receive.

Several things you might do can unintentionally harm your claim, potentially resulting in delayed or denied benefits. When you call a knowledgeable lawyer from Kanoski Bresney to discuss your situation, we can give you additional case-specific advice.

1. Not Promptly Reporting Your Injury or Illness

Although you have 45 days to report your injury or illness to your supervisor, waiting long after your accident can make it difficult to prove that your injury happened at work. Workers’ comp does not cover injuries or illnesses that are not work-related.

2. Failing To Seek Immediate Medical Treatment

Your priority after a workplace injury or illness is your health, and waiting to see a physician may worsen your condition. The workers’ comp insurance company can also state that your delaying medical assistance means your condition is better than you claim or that it did not happen at work.

3. Disregarding Medical Advice

When you visit a physician, she will outline a treatment plan to encourage your recovery. Missed appointments and not following medical advice may give insurers the idea that your condition is not as severe as you claim or that you are purposefully prolonging your recovery time.

4. Making Inconsistent Statements

Insurance companies may investigate your claim and look for ways to prove it is invalid. Whether you are speaking to your employer, coworkers, friends, family, or social media contacts, making any inconsistent statement can damage your claim.

5. Returning to Work Too Soon

You may want or feel the need to go back to work as soon as you can after your illness or injury. If you return too soon, your health condition may worsen. Insurers may also claim that your going back to work before you are released from your doctor’s care means that your injury was not as bad as you claimed.

6. Not Partnering With an Experienced Workers’ Comp Lawyer

Workers’ comp claims can be complicated, and you can miss out on the benefits you deserve if you do not know how to overcome the challenges you may face. Working with an attorney from Kanoski Bresney gives you the benefit of our legal knowledge of the applicable laws and experience handling similar cases. We can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

Call Us Today for Your Free Consultation With Our Highly Effective Decatur, IL Workers’ Comp Lawyers

When you choose Kanoski Bresney, we can help you avoid making costly mistakes and secure the benefits you are due. Call us at 888-826-8682 now to discuss your case with one of our skilled Peoria, IL workers' compensation attorneys.