Springfield, IL Farm Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Sangamon County Law Firm Fighting for Injured Farm Workers
The agricultural sector is fraught with potential hazards that range from operating heavy machinery to exposure to toxic chemicals and unpredictable livestock. These risks are present daily and can lead to serious – and sometimes life-threatening – injuries. Farmers and farm workers frequently find themselves in situations where accidents can happen unexpectedly, whether it’s due to equipment malfunction, slip and fall incidents, or prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Given these inherent risks, farm workers should know their rights, especially when it comes to workers’ compensation benefits. If you suffer a work-related injury while at work on a farm, you may be entitled to compensation, which can help cover medical expenses and some of your lost wages.
Getting the benefits you deserve is often tougher than it should be. That’s where Haxel Law comes in. Our attorneys have insurance industry experience and are well aware of the challenges injured farm workers often face when dealing with employers and their insurance companies. We can aggressively enforce your rights and help you effectively navigate each stage of the workers’ compensation process.
Discuss your case in a free consultation with our farm workers’ compensation lawyers in Springfield, IL. Call (217) 215-4166 or contact us online to get started.
Common Causes of Farm Accidents
Agricultural work is demanding and tends to come with numerous safety challenges. Injuries can happen despite routine caution and strict adherence to safety regulations.
Many farm injuries are the result of:
- Machinery accidents. Machines like tractors, combines, and balers can cause severe injuries due to entanglement, rollovers, or improper use.
- Slips and falls. Working on farms often requires climbing ladders or working on uneven terrain. This increases the risk of falls, which can lead to fractures, sprains, or more serious injuries.
- Chemical exposure. Pesticides and fertilizers are common on farms but can pose serious health risks if improperly handled. Exposure to these chemicals can result in acute poisoning or long-term health issues.
- Animal-related injuries. Farms with livestock also face the risk of animal-related injuries. Unpredictable animal behavior can lead to kicks, bites, or trampling.
- Heat stress and sun exposure. Long hours working under the sun or in high temperatures can lead to heat stress, dehydration, or heatstroke.
Common Farm Accident Injuries
Farm accidents and conditions can result in workers sustaining many types of injuries that may entitle them to workers’ compensation benefits. These injuries can range from acute incidents like machinery accidents or falls to more chronic conditions arising from prolonged exposure to harmful conditions.
Some of the most common types of agricultural industry injuries include:
- Lacerations and amputations. Working with machinery like tractors, hay balers, and saws can lead to severe cuts or the loss of limbs if an individual becomes entangled in the equipment. These injuries often occur due to a lack of proper safety guards, distractions, or clothing getting caught in machinery.
- Fractures and dislocations. The physical nature of farming, combined with tasks such as handling livestock or carrying heavy loads, can result in broken bones or dislocated joints. Falls from ladders or equipment, as well as slips on wet surfaces, are frequent causes of such injuries.
- Respiratory problems. Exposure to dust, molds, and chemical fumes can contribute to respiratory issues over time. Inhaling dust in grain silos or breathing in pesticide vapors without appropriate protective gear can lead to chronic conditions like asthma or acute respiratory distress.
- Musculoskeletal disorders. Repetitive tasks, such as bending or lifting, can lead to musculoskeletal injuries affecting the back, shoulders, and neck. These disorders may develop gradually, resulting in chronic pain and impaired movement.
- Heat-related illnesses. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures and sun while working outdoors can result in heat exhaustion or heatstroke. These conditions pose serious health risks if not promptly addressed and can lead to long-term health complications.
- Hearing loss. Constant exposure to loud noises from machinery like tractors, grain bins, and other farm equipment can contribute to hearing loss. Without proper ear protection, this cumulative exposure can lead to permanent auditory damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 217-215-4166 today!
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When Am I Entitled to Workers’ Compensation as a Farm Worker in Illinois?
In Illinois, farm workers are generally entitled to workers' compensation benefits if they sustain an injury while performing job-related duties. This includes injuries resulting from workplace accidents as well as repetitive stress injuries linked to work-related tasks.
However, not all Illinois farms are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Farmers who have fewer than 400 working days of labor in each quarter of the previous year are exempt from mandatory coverage. Some farms misrepresent their working days of labor to qualify for this exemption under false pretenses.
Injuries that occur when a worker is engaged in activities unrelated to their job or due to willful negligence or misconduct typically do not qualify for compensation. For example, if a farm worker is injured while engaging in horseplay or using machinery for personal purposes outside of work hours, they might be ineligible for benefits.
Additionally, workers who are classified as independent contractors rather than employees may also find themselves excluded, as employers are not required to provide workers' compensation coverage to non-employees. Farms sometimes misclassify employees as independent contractors to avoid having to provide coverage, but if the nature of your work qualifies you as a full-time, part-time, or seasonal employee under the law, you may still be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits regardless of your initial classification.
With the program’s many nuances and exceptions, figuring out whether you can get workers’ compensation as an injured farm worker in Illinois isn’t always easy. Do not assume your employer is being truthful if they claim you are not eligible for coverage for one reason or another.
Our farm workers’ compensation attorneys in Springfield, IL, can investigate your eligibility and walk you through your options. If you are not entitled to benefits, we can explore alternative means of obtaining compensation, such as filing a personal injury claim against a party whose negligence harmed you.
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Deadlines for Filing a Farm Worker’s Compensation Claim in Illinois
When you suffer a work-related injury in an accident or discover a job-related injury, you have only 45 days to report your injury to your employer. You should make this report in writing and try to submit it as soon as possible to reduce the chances of a dispute. Waiting too long to report can potentially lead to the denial of your claim.
After notifying your employer, you have three years from the date you were injured (or discovered your injury) or two years from the last payment of benefits – whichever is later – to file your workers’ compensation claim. Again, these deadlines are strictly enforced, and your claim will likely be denied if you do not submit it within this window.
Available Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Injured Illinois Farm Workers
Worker’s compensation benefits are designed to provide support and financial assistance to employees who suffer from work-related injuries. After evaluating your situation, our farm workers’ compensation lawyers in Springfield, IL, can help you understand what types of compensation you can expect. We always work to maximize what our clients recover.
Farmer workers’ compensation can cover the following types of damages:
- Medical benefits. Injured farm workers are entitled to receive all necessary medical care related to their injuries. This includes doctor visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, and other treatments that facilitate recovery. Prescription medications and medical devices, such as crutches or prosthetics, are also covered.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.
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"Thanks For All You Have Done!"Marty Haxel provided exceptional help with a complex work men's comp case, made our part seem small. Would refer him to anyone that needs help fighting the big guys!- David E.