Springfield, IL Industrial Workers’ Compensation Attorneys
Sangamon County Law Firm Fighting for Injured Industrial and Factory Workers
Factories and other industrial occupational settings are inherently dangerous environments filled with potential hazards. Workers navigating these spaces face risks associated with heavy machinery, hazardous substances, and high noise levels, among other factors.
If you are an industrial worker who has suffered an on-the-job industry, you should know you may have the right to workers’ compensation benefits, which can help make up for some of your lost wages and cover needed medical care. Frustratingly, getting the benefits you are entitled to under the law is often easier said than done.
At Haxel Law, we can provide guidance and advocacy throughout each step of filing a workers’ compensation claim. Our seasoned attorneys have insurance industry experience and are familiar with the strategies employers and insurers sometimes use to unjustly deny claims or give injured workers less than what they deserve. If you are having trouble getting benefits, we can put our resources behind you and work aggressively to enforce your rights.
Our Springfield, IL, industrial workers’ compensation lawyers are ready to listen to your story and review your legal options. Schedule a free consultation today by calling (217) 215-4166 or contacting us online.
Common Causes of Industrial Accidents
Industrial accidents and injuries often result from a combination of various factors, ranging from human error to environmental conditions to mechanical failures. Incidents can occur even if all workers follow safety rules and behave responsibly.
Many injuries that warrant workers’ compensation claims are linked to:
- Heavy machinery. Heavy machinery is a staple of industrial environments, but it poses significant risks if not operated correctly. Moving parts can cause crushing injuries or limb amputations, and faulty machinery can lead to serious accidents.
- Chemical exposure. Factories often utilize various chemicals that can be hazardous to health. Without proper handling, storage, and disposal, these substances can lead to burns, respiratory issues, or long-term health conditions.
- Slips, trips, and falls. Common across many types of work environments, slips, trips, and falls are particularly prevalent in factories with cluttered pathways or uneven surfaces.
- Overexertion. Workers in industrial settings frequently perform physically demanding tasks. Repeated lifting, pulling, or pushing can lead to overexertion injuries like strains and sprains.
- Noise hazards. Prolonged exposure to high noise levels is another contributor to industrial injuries, resulting in hearing loss.
Common Industrial Accident Injuries
Injuries sustained in industrial accidents can have significant consequences, often impacting a worker's ability to perform their job or even leading to long-term health issues. When such injuries occur, workers may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits.
Do not wait to get in touch with one of our industrial workers’ compensation attorneys in Springfield, IL, if you have suffered any of the following types of injuries because of your job:
- Musculoskeletal injuries. These injuries can result from repetitive movements or improper lifting techniques, leading to strains, sprains, or even more severe conditions like herniated disks. Such injuries may require extended medical treatment or physical therapy.
- Burns. Whether chemical or thermal, burns are a serious concern in factories and industrial environments. Exposure to hot surfaces, flames, or hazardous chemicals can cause varying degrees of burns, with severe cases necessitating extensive medical care and time away from work.
- Lacerations and contusions. Cuts, punctures, and bruises can occur in industrial workplaces, often due to sharp tools, equipment, or accidental impacts. While some may be minor, others can lead to significant blood loss or complications.
- Respiratory issues. In environments with poor ventilation or high levels of airborne contaminants, workers may develop respiratory problems. These can range from acute conditions like asphyxiation to chronic illnesses such as occupational asthma.
- Hearing loss. With the constant exposure to loud machinery noise, hearing loss is a frequent issue faced by industrial workers. Over time, this can lead to permanent hearing damage, necessitating medical treatment or the use of hearing aids.
- Fractures and broken bones. These injuries can occur due to falls, machinery malfunctions, or collisions. Fractures often require immediate medical attention and can result in lengthy recovery periods, during which workers may be unable to perform their duties.
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 Industrial Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
As an industrial worker in Illinois, you are entitled to workers' compensation benefits when you sustain an injury or illness that arises out of and in the course of your employment. Illinois law requires employers to provide workers’ compensation coverage regardless of who is at fault for the accident. This means you are eligible for benefits if you can demonstrate that your injury was related to your job duties or occurred on company premises while you were performing work-related tasks. For example, if you suffer a sprain while lifting heavy equipment, develop respiratory issues from prolonged exposure to toxic fumes, or experience hearing loss due to excessive noise, you should be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
There are, however, specific circumstances under which you may not be entitled to workers' compensation benefits in Illinois. If the injury occurs while you are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs – and it is determined that this was the sole cause of the accident – workers’ comp benefits may be denied. Additionally, self-inflicted injuries or harm resulting from a violation of company safety policies, such as not wearing required protective gear, could disqualify you from receiving compensation. Injuries sustained during activities not related to work or outside the scope of employment duties, such as while on a personal errand during work hours or during a lunch break off the premises, are typically not covered.
Additionally, Illinois employers are only obligated to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage to employees. Independent contractors are not usually covered, but employers sometimes misclassify employees as independent contractors to avoid paying benefits.
Still not sure if you can get workers’ compensation benefits? Our team at Haxel Law can help. If your employer is saying you are not eligible, we can investigate and determine your rights.
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Deadlines for Filing an Industrial Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois
In Illinois, you must notify your employer of a work-related injury within 45 days of the date you were injured or the date you discovered (or reasonably should have discovered) your injuries. You should submit a written report that explains the circumstances surrounding your injuries, including how it was work-related.
Once you have made your initial report, you have three years from the date you were injured or two years from the last payment of benefits (whichever is later) to file your workers’ compensation claim. Missing any deadline during this process can lead to a denied claim, so you should always act sooner rather than later.
Available Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Injured Illinois Industrial Workers
In the aftermath of suffering an industrial or factory-related injury, you need to understand what workers’ compensation benefits do (and do not) cover. Our industrial workers’ compensation lawyers in Springfield, IL, can fight to get you the compensation you need to move forward, especially if you require ongoing medical care or are unable to return to work.
Illinois workers' compensation benefits can cover the following types of damages:
- Medical expenses. This includes all reasonable and necessary medical costs related to the treatment of your workplace injury or illness. Coverage can include hospital visits, doctor appointments, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other associated healthcare needs.
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.