Worker’s Compensation Claims in Illinois
If you’ve been injured at work and your employer is disputing the claim, you need the assistance of a Worker’s Compensation Attorney. Barber Law Offices LLC has successfully represented both workers and employers. Whether you were injured or you’re the employer, it is always best to consult a Workers’ Compensation lawyer and attempt to settle before going to court.
Barber Law Offices LLC will represent you no matter the industry, whether you’re a union employee or are employed by the government.
10 Commandments of Protecting Your Workers’ Compensation Claim
#1: REPORT
Tell your supervisor you’ve suffered a work-related injury within forty-five (45) days. Failure to report may result in your claim being barred. Make sure any special forms/reports your employer has been filled out and returned.
#2: MEDICAL CARE
Seek medical attention as quickly as possible. The workers’ compensation insurance company views failure to get prompt medical care as proof you’re not injured.
#3: ACCURATE HISTORY
Tell every medical provider the exact same, very simple account of how the injury occurred, including the time the injury happened. Ex: “I was injured on August 16th while lifting a patient”. Too much detail creates the risk of the medical provider doesn’t accurately record what you report.
#4: FOLLOW DOCTORS’ ORDERS
The workers’ comp insurance company sees failure to follow your doctor’s orders as proof you’re not really injured or that you’re faking. NEVER EXCEED YOUR DOCTOR’S RESTRICTIONS
#5: WORK STATUS NOTES
Obtain a work status note EVERY TIME you see your doctor. It is critical to document any medical need to be off work or working with restrictions.
#6: KEEP YOUR EMPLOYER INFORMED
Your employer has a right to know what your work status is. Make sure you give the employer your work status notes. Keeping your employer informed keeps the line of communications open and smooths your return to work.
#7: DON’T SAY TOO MUCH
Even though you should keep your employer informed as to your medical status, don’t say any more. Don’t talk about your case with anyone at any time. And by all means, STAY OFF SOCIAL MEDIA!
#8: THE INSURANCE COMPANY
Don’t talk to the claims adjuster, if you can help it. DON’T GIVE A RECORDED STATEMENT! If you don’t have an attorney, tell the adjuster only once how and when you were injured. Remember, the “nurse case manager” at your doctor’s appointment isn’t your friend, no matter how nice they are.
#9: DON’T TAKE ADVICE FROM NON-ATTORNEYS
Everyone is going to have an opinion about your case. Don’t take legal advice from them. They are not lawyers. Believe it or not- each case is different.
#10: CALL THE BARBER LAW OFFICES LLC
Scott Barber has been practicing workers’ compensation and personal injury cases in Schaumburg IL since 1984. He will protect your rights and the first consultation is free. Scott doesn’t get paid unless you get paid first.
Why Choose Barber Law Offices for Your Worker’s Compensation Case?
We Work for YOU
We advocate for your best interests and work hard to get the highest compensation possible for our clients.
Millions Recovered
Over the last 38 years, our firm has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients.
No Upfront Fees
We’ll never rush to settle your case and there are no upfront fees, so we don’t get paid unless you do.
Top 100 Trial Lawyer
Ranked in the National Trial Lawyers “Top 100”.
