Elevator shaft accidents and related construction site injuries can lead to permanent disability or even death. Having to cope with a Workers’ Compensation dispute is an added stress that accident victims and their families shouldn’t have to encounter at a time like this. An experienced Chicago construction accident lawyer can talk to you about your accident injuries, Workers’ Compensation and your avenues for recourse if and when Workers’ Compensation isn’t enough to cover your medical expenses and long-term needs.In order to receive Workers’ Compensation benefits, you must notify your employer of your injuries within 45 days of the accident and file the appropriate paperwork with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.After the paperwork is filed, Workers’ Compensation will assign a case number to your file and appoint an arbitrator to handle your case. An arbitrator will address your case after you have healed completely. The exception is if you request an emergency hearing.Arbitrators typically issue their decisions within 60 days of the trial. Either you or your employer can appeal the decision.Workers’ Compensation Disputes If you or your employer appeals your arbitrator’s decision, the appeal will go through a process. The steps of this process include:
- Appointing 3 arbitrators, call the “Commission,” to review evidence of your case and the decision made by your arbitrator as well as any additional arguments that you or your former employer want to submit;
- Listening to oral arguments, which usually run for 5 to 10 minutes, from you and/or your employer at a hearing; and
- Issuing a final decision within 60 days.
Courts usually uphold a Commission’s decision as the final step in the legal process.When to Hire a Chicago Construction Accident LawyerWhen Workers’ Compensation isn’t enough to fully address your medical needs after a Chicago construction accident, contact an attorney who can talk to you about your options for legal recourse and third-party liability claims.The Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. have tried many cases like yours and know the best ways to handle your worksite injuries case. For a free evaluation of your case contact us today – 312-263-1080.