You may know that, as an employee, you have the right to seek certain types of financial support in the event you suffer injuries in an accident. Employers have certain obligations to the men and women who work for them, and that includes doing certain things regarding workers’ compensation. Most Illinois employers have to carry workers’ comp insurance or else pay steep fines and penalties.
Additionally, if an employer does not have workers’ compensation insurance, he or she may be personally liable if there is an accident that leaves an employee injured. The employee may be able to file a lawsuit, and the employer could even face criminal prosecution in some instances. However, carrying this type of insurance is only one of the many things you could expect from your employer.
Employer Obligations
There are several things employees can expect from their employer regarding workers’ compensation in addition to simply carrying this type of insurance. Some of these things include:
They must post a notice of these benefits in a place where employees can easily see it.
They must ensure injured employees get medical treatment as soon as possible after an accident.
Employers must help injured employees find a doctor if they are unable to find one for necessary treatment.
Employers have to file a report with the local workers’ compensation office about the accident.
They have to keep careful written records of any accidents that take place that result in an employee needing time off to recover, medical treatment, and at least two visits with a doctor for treatment.
Employers have to comply with any information requests from the local workers’ compensation board or the insurance company.
Employers have to do several things in terms of workers’ comp, but there are also things they must not do. This includes retaliating against a worker who files a claim or encouraging a worker with a valid claim not to notify the insurance company.
If you suffered injuries in an accident at your workplace, you could have a valid claim to workers’ compensation benefits. It is not easy to navigate the insurance claims process, and there are many reasons why you will want to work with an experienced workers’ comp attorney from the initial stages of the claim. An assessment of your case can help you understand what benefits may be available to you and what you should expect from your employer.
Don't hesitate to reach out to Shay + Associates Law Firm if you require the expertise of a skilled personal injury lawyer in Springfield or Decatur, Illinois.