Alton Workplace Injury Lawyer

Alton Workplace Injury Attorney

Dealing with the aftermath of a workplace injury can be embarrassing, overwhelming, and quite difficult, depending on your situation. Workplace accidents can cause potentially life-threatening injuries, just as any accident might do. If it happens to you at work, you can file for workers’ compensation benefits. An Alton workplace injury lawyer can review your case, assist you in correctly filling out the paperwork, and strengthen your workers’ compensation claim.

Why Should You Hire a Workplace Injury Lawyer?

When navigating the complex aftermath of a workplace injury, it is vital that you take certain important steps to keep yourself protected. There could be multiple obstacles standing between you and a workers’ comp claim. It may be important for you to recognize as many of those issues as you can. An experienced Alton workers’ compensation lawyer can overcome any setbacks or unexpected problems while making sure you aren’t taken advantage of in any way.

Having the right workplace accident lawyer by your side can make all the difference. An Alton personal injury lawyer consistently advocates for their clients’ safety and well-being. Hiring experienced representation early into your workers’ comp claims process can help it move a lot more smoothly. Fortunately, Illinois’s workplace injury laws greatly favor the employee.

Illinois’s Workers’ Compensation Act set up the state’s workers’ comp process as a no-fault system. This means that any qualifying worker who is injured in the workplace may be automatically entitled to workers’ comp benefits, even if they are at fault for the accident, within reason. An Alton workers’ compensation lawyer can guide you through the application procedures.

What Should You Do If You Are Injured at Work?

There is virtually no workplace on the planet that is exempt from the occasional accident. Some workplaces may be more dangerous than others, and care should always be taken in the workplace to avoid accidents. If you ever find yourself injured on the job, the actions you take could later influence the accessibility of your workers’ comp benefits.

No matter your situation, you may want to speak with an Alton personal injury lawyer. They can build a case and improve your chances of obtaining the benefits you need.

Here are some important steps you can take to protect your claim after a workplace accident:

• Seek Medical Help: Once you realize you have been injured, your very first move should be to call for help and get medical attention immediately. Your priority should always be your health and safety. If your workplace has an onsite medical facility, see if somebody can escort you there. Otherwise, call 911 as soon as you can. Get a first aid kit if possible.
• Report the Accident: You will need to report your accident to your immediate supervisor once it occurs or shortly thereafter. Keeping them updated will be vital to the success of your claim once you file it. Be sure to report the accident within 45 days. It is recommended that you submit a written report that includes all the details you can think of.
• Document the Scene: If you are physically able, be sure to start documenting the accident scene for your own records. Take plenty of pictures of your injuries, the location of the accident, and any hazards present at the accident scene that may have contributed to the situation.
• Gather Witness Statements: If any of your coworkers witnessed the accident, be sure to speak with them and gather their recollections of the scene. When you decide to file for workers’ comp, having witness statements can be beneficial.
• See a Doctor: Even if your injuries do not appear to be that severe, you should go see a doctor anyway, just to be safe. You may have internal injuries you are unaware of. A doctor can give you a thorough examination and provide you with a detailed medical report.
• See a Lawyer: Once you have filed your workers’ comp claim, there is a good chance your claim may be denied outright. Having an experienced workers’ comp lawyer on your side when you fill out and file the forms can increase your chances of getting your case approved. You can also get started on your appeal as soon as possible if your claim is denied.

Alton Workplace Injury FAQs

Q: Can You File a Legal Claim for a Work Injury in Alton?

A: Generally, you cannot file a legal claim for a work injury in Alton, IL. Bringing legal action against your employer for a work-related injury could violate the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. If your employer’s actions deliberately caused you harm, you could make a case for personal injury against the individual who harmed you.

Q: How Much Do Workers’ Comp Lawyers Charge in Alton?

A: Workers’ comp lawyers in Alton work on a contingency fee basis. It doesn’t cost a plaintiff anything to hire legal representation, and the attorney is only paid if they win the case. When deciding on their exact fee, your lawyer will need to take into account the complexity of your case, their own experience, their education, their availability, and their resources, among other factors.

Q: How Many Days Do You Have to Report an Injury at Work in Alton?

A: In Illinois, you have 45 days from the date of the initial accident to report your workplace injury to your employer. You can report the injury in writing or orally, though it is recommended that you do so in writing to establish a valid paper trail. While you have 45 days to report the incident, it is also recommended that you do it as quickly as you can to avoid delays in obtaining your benefits.

Q: How Do I Claim Workers’ Comp in Alton?

A: To claim workers’ comp in Alton, you will need to submit a report of your workplace injury to your employer, then file a claim with your company’s insurance carrier as soon as possible. Be sure to get checked out by a medical professional and retain a workers’ comp lawyer, especially if your claim is contested.

Reach Out to a Workplace Injury Lawyer Today

Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, understands how difficult it can be to file for workers’ comp. We can support your efforts through the process. Contact us to schedule a consultation.