A construction site is one of the most hazardous workplaces, with workers regularly out in the field, facing many risks and perils. Even with the strict safety standards, there are a few accidents, which lead to grievous injuries and even death as explained by a Tuite Law. If you are an Illinois construction worker injured during an accident, you need to know how the law applies to your situation and your legal options. In this post, we discuss exactly what you need to do after a construction site accident, plus how the legal process works so you can receive the compensation and care you need.
What to Do in A Construction Site Accident Happens
Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety is the priority! Regardless of whether your injuries are minor, you should look for medical attention promptly. Getting medical attention as soon as possible will help avoid complications and give you evidence for your claim.
Report the Accident
Inform your employer or supervisor about the accident immediately. Illinois workers must report their workplace injuries to their employer within 45 days. If this is not done, you may lose your right to recover any worker`s compensation benefits that you are entitled to.
Document the Incident
Gather as much proof as you can. Take pictures of your injuries, the accident area, and any potentially dangerous situations that may have led to the mishap. Obtain the contact details of witnesses who can support your version of events.
Keep Records
Keep a record of all treatment you have received for your injuries from the accident, as well as any expense due to the accident, and anything you have said or done about the accident. This documentation will be important in supporting your claim.
Illinois Workers’ Compensation
Eligibility and Benefits: Most construction workers in Illinois use workers’ compensation, a no-fault system that provides money and medical treatment to employees who have been harmed on the job. These benefits mainly include the following:
- Medical Benefits: From the necessary treatment to surgery, doctor consultations, and rehabilitation, all are covered.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you are unable to work at all because of your injury, then you are entitled to wage replacement benefits. Most of the time, TTD benefits are two-thirds of your regular weekly pay.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): One-time payment for permanent injuries that affect your ability to work partially.
- Permanent Total Disability: You get paid if you can never go back to work because of your injury
- Vocational rehabilitation: Help for job retraining or education if you cannot return to your old job.
- Death Benefits: Covers dependents of a worker killed in a construction site accident.
How to Start a Workers Compensation Claim?
- Report the Injury: As previously stated, you have 45 days to notify your employer of your injuries. Keep a copy for your records and make sure you do this in writing.
- Seek Medical Attention: If your employer has a list of preferred providers, pick one from their list. If you do not like what the first diagnosis said (or how), you are entitled to a second opinion.
- File a Claim: File a claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). From the date of the injury, you have three years to make a claim.
- Consult an Attorney: We advise you to consult an honest and experienced worker`s compensation attorney so that you do not miss out the complexity of the claim has also been abolished and we will handle everything for you.
There are many dangerous construction issues, and if you are injured you need to know your rights and legal options – it can truly make a difference in how you recover and how you pay your bills. Illinois worker’s compensation provides important benefits but additional money may be available through a third-party liability claim.