Chicago Personal Injury Attorneys on Illinois Workers Compensation Claims - Part IV: How to Report an Injury at Work
Now that you understand the importance of acting quickly after an injury on the job (see parts 1-3 of this series), the first step is to file a timely injury report with your employer. If you delay or fail to notify your employer of this injury, you may lose your right to receive compensation. Therefore, even if your injury does not at first appear to be serious, the event/injury should be reported, and you should contact a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney immediately, who can help you follow the proper protocol thus protecting your legal rights.
The following are answers to common questions addressed to Illinois Personal Injury Lawyers who specialize in Worker’s compensation.
Question: When should report my injury?
Chicago Personal Injury Attorney: “In most cases, you must notify your employer of the injury within 45 days after the accident occurred. Injuries caused by repetitive work activity (with no specific traumatic accident) must be reported within 45 days of the date in which the condition first became apparent. Radiation injury must be reported within 90 days after you suspect that you were exposed to radiation. Occupational diseases must be reported as soon you become aware of the condition. Remember - DELAY IN REPORTING AN INJURY OR DISEASE CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF ALL BENEFITS.”
Question: Whom should I notify?
Chicago Personal Injury Attorney: “You should notify a person in a position of authority, such as a supervisor, foreman, safety director, dispatcher, personnel director, owner, corporate officer, company nurse, plan physician, or member other member of management.”
Question: Should the notice be in writing?
Chicago Personal Injury Attorney: “Oral notice is allowed, but it is to your advantage to fill out a written accident report. Otherwise, it is possible that your employer may later deny that you gave oral notice of your injury. It is very important that you request a copy of your written notice at the time of completion and submission. You should keep a file of ALL communication regarding your work-related injury or disease, including the names and dates of any insurance company, claims adjuster, case manager or insurance company nurse who contacts you.”
Question: What should the notice include?
Chicago Personal Injury Attorney: “Notice of injury should include the date and place of the accident, if known. To avoid delays, we also recommend that you include your full name, address, telephone number, Social Security number, date of birth, and a brief description of the injury, accident or disease.”
If you have sustained injury because of your work, or while on-the-job in Illinois, Personal Injury Lawyers will help you obtain just compensation under the law.
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