In Illinois and across the United States, thousands of workplace accidents occur every day. Fortunately, most of those accidents don’t result in serious injuries. That being said, even a minor workplace accident may entitle the injured worker(s) to receive benefits under the state’s Workers’ Compensation program.
Workers Compensation provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries, including illness and diseases (such as those who work with dangerous chemicals). Typically, benefits paid as a result of a workplace accident are made without regard to whether the worker was at fault. And in those tragic cases wherein a workplace accident results in a fatality, the family of the deceased person may be eligible to receive death benefits.
Last month, in the early afternoon, a worker was injured on the job in McHenry County. Pinned by a cement truck, the individual fell in a trench. County Fire and Rescue teams took about an hour to free the man from the trench. He was said to be conscious and alert as he was transported to the hospital.
Employers are responsible for providing a safe workplace for all workers. Sometimes they fail, and on other occasions workplace accidents just happen. Those injured on the job are often confused about benefits and how to apply for them. An Illinois attorney experienced in all aspects of the law and relevant procedure may provide some much needed support. The lawyer can help document what happened, assist if filing the appropriate paperwork and fight to ensure the worker or his family receives all benefits provided by law.
Source: The ABC7chicago.com, “Man pulled from trench in McHenry,” Oct. 31, 2011
