Every state has workers’ compensation laws to protect workers in all industries and career fields. Getting injured on the job happens more than most would think, and there are times when an employee who is injured while at their workplace can sue for compensation benefits. This can be a challenging legal field to fully understand, and there are a few main reasons to consult with the best Palatine workers’ compensation attorneys before applying for those benefits.
All businesses must comply with health and safety laws required by the federal and state government
Government health and safety organizations require companies to meet strict worker health and safety mandates in order to continue to meet their business license qualifications. Failure to do so may result in the closure of the business and the removal of its license to operate until such time as health and safety officials deem the business to be once again safe to open its doors. This is a very serious matter.
It is essential to gather evidence of security breaches as soon as possible
As in any personal injury court case, someone trying to prove that their employer somehow broke the law when they were injured on the job, they need to have the correct proof. That is why it is highly recommended that workers who are injured while performing their normal job duties should contact Palatine workers’ compensation attorneys for legal advice on how to proceed from there. It’s amazing how quickly unsafe work environments are cleaned up after an employee is injured as a result.
The attorneys have a team of workers’ compensation specialists waiting
Most personal injury law firms handling workers’ compensation cases will have a team of compensation specialists ready to begin the active investigation process to gather the evidence necessary to win their client’s court case in court or through a legally binding conciliation procedure.
These experts will know where to look for things like chemicals used in the workplace that are not safely stored and labeled with the proper safety warning labels. Other clues that can be found in an unsafe workplace include poor air quality, broken equipment, dangerous structural problems, and a lack of required safety training for employees, among many other elements.
Don’t give in to demands to return to work when you’re still hurt
Many employers attempt to force their injured or ill employees to return to work before they are physically or mentally healed and ready for the task. Always seek medical attention from another doctor if your work doctor tries to send you back to work when you still don’t feel ready to do so safely. Always follow your doctor’s instructions on these matters and make sure your doctor writes or sends the appropriate work authorization forms to your employer in a timely manner.
Things that may be covered by a workers’ compensation claim
Exposure to chemicals and hazardous substances in your workplace could be a reason to win your workers’ compensation claim. Unsafe working conditions, lack of proper training before using dangerous equipment and work supplies are also red flags for workers’ compensation attorneys. Improper storage of harmful or hazardous materials, fire hazards, overheated work areas, and more could apply.