When you suffer an injury at work, workers’ compensation usually kicks in. However, many people find themselves wondering about just how long those workers’ compensation payments will last. Workers with severe injuries may be out of work for months or even years. The length of Waukegan workers’ compensation benefits can depend on several factors, so working with a lawyer is essential to protect your rights.
The amount of time your Waukegan workers’ compensation benefits run will depend on a number of elements.
The injuries sustained in a workplace accident have the biggest impact on how long payments will last. If the injured party suffered severe injuries that will require substantial medical treatment, they may need to spend more time out of work, which means workers’ compensation payments will last longer. On the other hand, less severe injuries may mean that the worker can get back on the job sooner.
Sometimes, employees who need to use workers’ compensation to cover the cost of medical treatment will find themselves stuck waiting for approval before they can have needed medical procedures, physical therapy, and other necessary support. If the treatment timeline drags out, it can extend the time that workers’ comp payments last.
In most cases, an employee will need clearance from their medical care provider before they can return to work. If a medical care provider does not sign off on the employee’s return, it may mean that workers’ comp payments last longer.
In Illinois, workers’ compensation kicks in if an employee cannot work for at least three days after a workplace injury. The duration of the workers’ compensation case can depend on the injuries sustained.
Some employers will try to end workers’ compensation payments before the employee has had a chance to fully recover from their injuries. Once an employee is able to return to work, even in a part-time capacity, workers’ comp payments for lost wages will no longer continue.
A worker who feels pressured to come back to work early, especially if their employer pressures them to come back to work before their doctor clears them, should consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. Employees on workers’ comp have the right to remain on benefits until cleared by their doctor or until the claim is terminated because the worker has reached maximum medical improvement.
A lawyer can help fight to protect the employee’s rights, including ensuring that they do not lose their job or future opportunities because of the need to take workers’ comp.
Because the amount of time you can receive workers’ comp benefits can depend so heavily on the extent of your injuries and when your doctor clears you to return to work, working with a lawyer is essential as you pursue the full compensation you deserve. At Schlack & Bassmaji, we understand the many challenges that can arise as you fight to protect your rights after workplace injuries. Contact us for your free consultation. We have bilingual, Spanish-speaking attorneys who can assist you on your journey.
