Healthcare workers often face a higher risk of injury on the job due to long shifts, heavy lifting, or exposure to infectious diseases. After an injury, fighting for your rights can be difficult and stressful. You shouldn’t have to handle the legal side of things while recovering.
Our skilled healthcare workers’ accident injury lawyers are here to help you secure the compensation you deserve. Focus on your recovery and not the legal battles! We’ll work hard to protect your rights and make the process easier.
Our Healthcare Injury Lawyers Can Help You With Legal Process
Between 2017 and 2021, over 488,000 healthcare workers were injured on the job. We know the physical and emotional toll this can take, especially when you need to go through all legal complications.
Let the Chicago Injury Lawyer handle all your legal process. Our lawyers go beyond filing claims. They uncover hidden details, fight for your rights, and ensure your rights are fully protected.
Case Evaluation:
When you’re injured at work, it’s hard to know where to start. Our lawyers carefully listen, understand your situation, and give you a clear plan for moving forward with your case.
Gathering Evidence:
After an injury, memories can fade. Our team collects important evidence, such as medical records and accident details to ensure nothing is missed and to strengthen your case.
Expert Negotiation:
Insurance companies often try to offer less money. Our lawyers know how to talk to them and will fight to get you the total amount you deserve, not just the minimum.
Representation in Court:
Going to court can feel overwhelming. Our lawyers stand by your side, explaining everything and fighting for your rights to ensure you get the best possible outcome.
Securing Compensation:
After an injury, you need compensation to cover bills and time off. Our lawyers work hard to ensure you receive all the money you’re owed, from medical costs to lost wages.
Healthcare Worker Injuries We Often Notice
When you’re a healthcare worker, even a small injury can change everything, including your career, health, and future. Our lawyers know your hidden struggles and fight to protect your rights.
Some common work-related injuries for healthcare workers include:
- Back strains from lifting patients
- Needle stick injuries
- Slips and falls on wet floors
- Repetitive strain injuries (from constant movements)
- Exposure to infectious diseases
- Chemical burns from disinfectants
- Joint injuries from physical demands
- Cuts or lacerations from sharp tools
- Shoulder injuries from heavy lifting
- Respiratory issues from toxic fumes
What Should I Do If I Was Injured At Work?
Knowing what to do after a work injury is challenging, specifically when you’re focused on helping others. However, taking immediate action is key, as evidence can fade quickly.
Our lawyers are ready to step in, secure crucial details, and guide you through each step to protect your rights and recovery.
These are the immediate steps you must take after having an accident in your healthcare workplace:
Seek Medical Attention
It’s essential to get checked by a doctor immediately, even if you feel the injury isn’t severe. Early treatment helps with healing and documenting the injury.
Report The Accident To Your Employer
Please inform your employer as soon as possible about the injury. This will ensure that the incident is recorded and meets legal requirements.
Document The Incident
Write down everything about the accident, including dates, times, and witnesses. Take photos of your injury and keep any medical records for future reference.
Contact a lawyer
Finally, contact Chicago Injury Lawyer for all your legal processes. Our expert lawyer can help you understand your rights. They’ll guide you through the process, make sure all paperwork is filed correctly, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who is Liable for Healthcare Worker Accidents in Chicago?
In healthcare worker accidents, liability typically depends on the nature of the injury and the circumstances surrounding it. Employers are generally responsible for providing a safe working environment by following OSHA rules. They must ensure proper training, protective equipment, and procedures to reduce the risk of injuries.
In cases where an injury occurs due to employer negligence, the healthcare provider may be held liable. This can include failure to provide adequate safety training, insufficient protective equipment, or neglect of safety protocols.
Legal Options Available For Injured Healthcare Workers
When an injury happens on the job, it can feel overwhelming, especially for healthcare workers who dedicate their lives to helping others. Our experienced lawyers are here to guide you through your legal options and fight for your compensation rights.
These are some essential legal options available for healthcare accident victims in Chicago:
i) File A Workers’ Compensation Claim
Under Illinois law, 820 ILCS 305, employees can file for workers’ compensation if they are injured at work. This can include injuries from accidents, worsened pre-existing conditions, repeated stress on certain body parts, heart attacks, or any other health issues caused by their work.
- Compensation Benefits: Compensation includes medical care, rehabilitation, and help getting back to work. The injured worker gets two-thirds of their average weekly wage tax-free, medical bills paid, and disability payments through a settlement or an award by the IWCC.
ii) File A Personal Injury Lawsuit
Under Illinois law, 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit if you are injured at work. The time starts when you realize you’re hurt. If your injury shows up later, Illinois’s discovery rule” allows you to file up to two years after discovering the injury.
- Compensation Benefits: Recoverable damages include medical bills, lost wages, future earnings, and rehabilitation costs. You can also receive compensation for pain, suffering, emotional distress, or loss of quality of life. To get compensation, you must prove the other party was negligent and caused your injury.
iii) File Retaliation Claims:
If a healthcare worker is injured and later faces retaliation (such as being fired or demoted) for filing a workers’ compensation claim, they may have a legal basis for a retaliation lawsuit. The workers must file the complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor within 30 days of the retaliatory action.
- Compensation Benefits: Potential compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Workers may also receive payments for pain and suffering, emotional distress, or reduced quality of life.
iv) File for Wrongful Death Act
If a healthcare worker dies due to a work injury, their family has two years to file a claim under the Wrongful Death Act. The time limit usually starts from the date of death.
- Compensation Benefits: Compensation can include funeral costs, medical bills, lost wages, and damages for grief or mental suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded for intentional or egregious conduct.
How To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim?
After reporting your injury and getting medical help, the next step is to file a workers’ compensation claim. Here’s how you can do it:
Complete the Necessary Forms
Your employer should give you the appropriate workers’ compensation claim forms. Fill them out carefully and include all details about your injury. Remember to attach medical records.
Submit the Claim
After completing the forms, submit them to your employer or insurance company. Keep copies of everything for your records. Your employer will send the claim to their insurance provider for review.
Follow Up on Your Claim
Stay connected with your employer or the insurance company to ensure your claim progresses. If they ask for more information, send it quickly to prevent delays.
The complete process can feel overwhelming. However, don’t worry. Our lawyers are here to guide you. We’ll ensure your claim is done right and on time so you can get the benefits you deserve.
Why Choose Us As Your Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Healthcare-related accident cases are sensitive and personal. An expert lawyer can guide you through this tough time with care and dedication. You can trust our experienced team for the best results.
Our commitment to healthcare workers sets us apart from other law firms in Chicago.
Client-Focused Approach:
We always listen to your story and focus on your needs, making sure you get the help you deserve. Your well-being is our top priority.
Strong Advocacy:
We fight for your rights and work hard to get you the compensation you need for your injury. We don’t back down in the face of injustice.
Comprehensive Support:
From start to finish, we guide you through every step of the process and make sure you’re never alone. We’re with you every step of the way.
Proven Success Rate:
We have helped many clients win their cases, and our success shows we know how to get results. Our track record speaks for itself.
Ready To Seek Workers’ Compensation Benefits? Get Free Consultation
Injuries on the job can leave you feeling lost and unsure where to turn. You deserve to be heard and get the compensation you’re entitled to. Our experienced lawyers are here to help you take the first step toward justice. Reach out today for a free consultation!
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my job if I file a workers’ compensation claim?
By law, your employer cannot fire you for filing a workers’ compensation claim. If you face retaliation, contact our attorney for help.
What if my healthcare injury was caused by unsafe working conditions?
If your injury was due to unsafe working conditions or your employer’s negligence, you may be eligible for additional compensation beyond workers’ compensation.
How long will it take to receive my workers’ compensation benefits?
The process can vary, but once your claim is approved, you should begin receiving benefits within a few weeks. If there are delays, our lawyers can assist in speeding up the process.
