Rockford Workers' Compensation Attorneys

Supportive Lawyers for Workers' Comp Claims in Rockford

Sustaining an injury on the job could have disastrous implications for your immediate and long-term future. Oftentimes, workers are burdened by the costs of medical expenses while also dealing with the consequences of being unable to work at full capacity while they recover. If you have suffered a workplace injury, reach out to a Rockford, IL workers' comp lawyer for legal assistance today.

At Grauer & Kriegel, LLC, we have proven experience representing clients in successful workers' compensation claims, including an $837,000 settlement awarded to a 53-year-old airline mechanic who suffered a neck injury while working. As a well-established law firm that has served clients in the northwest suburbs for over 40 years, you can trust our legal team to fight hard for you in a workplace injury claim.

Types of Workplace Injuries in Rockford

Workplace injuries can occur in any setting, from factory floors to corporate offices. Recognizing the most common forms of on-the-job harm can help injured workers know when to seek help and pursue a claim.

• Repetitive stress injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome from constant assembly-line work or data-entry tasks
• Falls from heights, including ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or mezzanines
• Falls on wet floors, unmarked elevation changes, or cluttered walkways
• Neck and back injuries caused by improper lifting, overexertion, or sudden jolts
• Fractures, crush injuries, and amputations involving heavy machinery, forklifts, or conveyor systems
• Chemical exposures and burns from solvents, acids, pesticides, or heavy industrial cleaners
• Heavy machinery accidents
• Electrocution and electrical burns from exposed wires, malfunctioning equipment, or improper grounding

What Should I Do After Suffering a Workplace Injury?

After sustaining an injury, time is of the essence. First, report the incident to your supervisor or employer in writing as soon as possible, no later than 45 days from the date of injury. This written notice is critical to establish the timeline for any future claim. Next, seek prompt medical attention, even if your symptoms seem minor, so that your injuries are properly documented and treated. Keep copies of all medical records, prescriptions, and doctor's notes.

Once you have reported the injury and obtained initial treatment, you must file your claim with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission within three years of the initial injury. Missing these deadlines can forfeit your right to benefits, even when liability is clear.

Compensation Available in a Workers' Comp Claim

A workers' compensation claim can cover a variety of damages arising from your injury. Our attorneys can help you pursue full compensation in your claim, factoring in a variety of economic losses.

Medical benefits cover all reasonable and necessary treatment related to your work injury, including doctor visits, surgery, physical therapy, and prescription medications. Illinois law requires your employer's insurance to pay these expenses without co-payments or deductibles.

Wage differential benefits in the form of temporary total disability (TTD) or temporary partial disability (TPD) replace a portion of your lost earnings when you cannot work or must work at reduced capacity. Disability benefits may be available on a permanent basis if your injury causes lasting impairment. Permanent partial disability (PPD) provides an award for a permanent loss of function, and permanent total disability (PTD) offers lifetime benefits when you cannot return to any gainful employment.

In some cases, you may be able to file a third-party claim against an entity other than your employer, like a separate company or manufacturer. These third-party actions can allow you to pursue additional remedies that are not available under workers' compensation alone, such as compensation for pain and suffering or loss of consortium.

Meet With a Rockford, IL Workers' Compensation Lawyer

If you have been hurt at your place of employment, Grauer & Kriegel, LLC can assist you in filing a workers' comp claim. To set up your free initial consultation, call our offices at 847-240-9010 or contact our Rockford workers' compensation lawyers.