Enhanced safety practices and advanced technology protect employees in Illinois from dangers on the job. However, workers can still suffer injuries resulting from exposure to toxins in the workplace.
Industries such as mining, manufacturing, construction, and welding involve hazardous substances that could lead to injuries and health issues for workers.
Providing Your Legal Case
If you become ill or sustain injuries from exposure to toxins at work, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. To get the compensation you deserve, you must first prove to the court that you encountered hazardous substances while performing necessary job tasks. You also need to offer proof that your illness or injury is due to that exposure.
Understanding the Process
Knowing Illinois’ legal system and workers’ comp laws is essential to achieving your desired outcome. Take the following actions after your exposure:
Notify your employer right away when you become aware of your exposure injuries
Seek medical care for your illness or other related ailments
Write down the incident details and effects on your health
Speak with coworkers who witnessed your exposure
Get in touch with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration if you feel your employer violated safety standards
Knowing the Statute of Limitations
When your workplace deals with hazardous chemicals or toxic substances, your continued proximity can lead to severe health conditions over time. Because of this unique situation, Illinois allows for an extensive filing limit to accommodate long-term exposure issues. You may even be able to file a claim after receiving workers’ comp benefits.
Toxic workplace exposure can present complicated challenges for your workers’ compensation claim. You are more likely to get the outcome you deserve when you understand the complex legal process.
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.