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Restaurant Workers

Springfield, IL Restaurant Workers’ Compensation Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Injured Restaurant Employees in Sangamon County

From broken glass to hot trays, the fast-paced restaurant industry can be hazardous for workers, increasing the risk of serious accidents and injuries. If you were injured as a restaurant worker in Springfield, you deserve compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, and other losses. This is where an experienced restaurant workers’ compensation lawyer can make all the difference. 

At Haxel Law, our attorneys are committed to protecting the rights of injured restaurant workers in Sangamon County by advocating for the benefits they deserve. Our advocates have an in-depth knowledge of Illinois workers’ compensation laws to help you navigate the claims process effectively. Whether you’re preparing to file an initial claim or appealing a denial, we can fight to recover compensation on your behalf, freeing you to focus on healing. 

Filing for workers’ compensation in Springfield can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact us online to discuss your case with our skilled attorneys.

Restaurant Injury Statistics in Illinois

With its demanding hours and physically strenuous labor, knowing your rights in the restaurant industry is essential to protecting your health and economic security. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the restaurant industry is one of the major contributors to workplace injuries across Illinois. Thousands of workers report job-related injuries every year. In 2022, the U.S. Department of Labor established the Local Emphasis Program in response to the high injury rate among food production workers, which is significantly greater than that of other manufacturing workers. 

Understanding Workers’ Comp Laws for Injured Restaurant Workers

Restaurant workers in Illinois are protected under the Workers’ Compensation Act, which ensures that employees injured on the job receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. This law provides a crucial safety net for workers to focus on recovery without the added stress of financial burdens. 

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) can also impact workers’ compensation claims in the restaurant industry. This federal law establishes standards for minimum wage, overtime, workplace safety, and record-keeping standards to protect employee rights in the workplace. If employers violate FLSA, this can affect the outcome of workers’ compensation cases. Consulting an attorney who understands the legal nuances of these laws is essential to securing the compensation you deserve after a workplace injury.

Common Injuries in the Restaurant Industry

From boiling pots to heavy plates and cutlery, restaurant workers are exposed to serious hazards on the job. Restaurant injuries can not only affect a worker’s physical well-being, but also their financial stability, making it crucial to seek sound counsel as soon as possible after an accident. Common injuries in the restaurant industry include: 

  • Cuts and lacerations: Handling sharp knives, slicers, and other kitchen tools can result in cuts and lacerations necessitating immediate medical attention.
  • Burns and scalds: Restaurant personnel are commonly burned and scalded due to their proximity to hot surfaces, such as ovens, grills, and pots. 
  • Slips, trips, and falls: Wet floors, spilled items, and crowded spaces can contribute to slip-and-fall accidents, leading to sprains, fractures, or concussions.
  • Muscle strains and sprains: Repeated bending, lifting, or standing for long periods can cause muscle strains and sprains, especially in the back and legs.
  • Repetitive strain injuries (RSI): Performing the same motions repeatedly, such as chopping ingredients or scooping items, can lead to repetitive strain injuries (RSI), such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

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!

  • How to Report a Restaurant Injury in Springfield

    Knowing what to do after a workplace accident is paramount to exercising your right to workers’ compensation. If you were injured in a restaurant, here are some important steps to take:

    1. Seek medical attention: Even if you lack obvious injuries, seeking immediate medical care is essential to protect your health and create an official record of your injuries. Delaying medical treatment can not only worsen the injury, but complicate the claims process.
    2. Report the injury to your employer: While Illinois workers’ comp laws require employees to report injuries within 45 days, it’s best to notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. Include as much information as you can, such as the time, date, and other relevant details about the accident.
    3. Document the accident: Be sure to document everything you remember about the accident, including the names of any witnesses, photographs or videos of the scene, and any physical evidence, such as damaged clothing or personal items.
    4. Consult a restaurant workers’ comp lawyer: Navigating a workers’ compensation claim can be complex, especially if your case involves employer disputes or insurance denials. Securing skilled representation can significantly enhance your chance of recovering the benefits you deserve.
  • What Benefits Are Available to Injured Restaurant Workers?

    Depending on the case, various benefits may be available in a workers’ compensation claim, such as:

    • Medical expenses: These benefits cover all medical costs related to the workplace injury, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
    • Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits: These benefits are available to workers who are unable to work at all during their recovery period.
    • Temporary partial disability (TPD) benefits: If your injury prevents you from working at full capacity, you may be entitled to compensation for a portion of your lost wages.
    • Permanent partial disability (PPD) benefits: If you sustained a permanent injury that impairs your ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of future earning potential.
    • Permanent total disability (PTD) benefits: If a work-related injury severely and permanently hinders an individual's ability to work, they may qualify for permanent total disability benefits to provide essential financial support.
    • Vocational rehabilitation: This covers training and education costs for new employment opportunities if the worker is unable to return to their previous job.
    Death benefits: In fatal workplace accidents, the worker’s surviving dependents may be entitled to financial assistance for funeral expenses and burial costs.
  • How Long Do I Have to Report a Restaurant Injury in Illinois?

    In Illinois, workers are required to report injuries to their employer within 45 days. The report can be verbal or written. Failure to notify your employer within this timeframe can result in the loss of eligibility for workers’ compensation benefits. At Haxel Law, our attorneys are well-versed in workers’ compensation laws to help you navigate the legal intricacies of the claims process.

  • Are Restaurants Required to Carry Workers’ Comp in Springfield?

    Yes, most restaurants are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance under Illinois law. However, rare exceptions may apply in select cases, such as those involving sole proprietorships, corporate officers, or limited liability companies (LLCs). Consulting with a qualified lawyer is a must to determine your eligibility for benefits and seek compensation for your injuries.

  • I Already Have a Doctor in Springfield. Can I Use Them?

    Yes, you are legally entitled to choose your own doctor after a workplace injury in Illinois. State law prohibits employers from forcing injured workers to use company-approved physicians.

Turn to an Injury Firm with Proven Results

When you partner with Haxel Law, you’ll put decades of experience in your corner. We employ a client-centric approach to provide empathetic representation tailored to your specific case, giving you peace of mind that your legal needs are prioritized. As time-tested trial lawyers, we never shy away from litigation if necessary to recover a fair settlement on your behalf. With a success rate of over 90% and proven results in workers’ compensation cases, you can trust our attorneys to protect your rights against evasive insurance companies while fighting for the best possible outcome. 

Injured on the job in Springfield? We can work diligently to recover the benefits you deserve. Call (217) 215-4166 to schedule a free consultation. 

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.

    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.
    "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.

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