Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Waukegan Workers’ Compensation Claim

Filing a workers’ compensation claim in Illinois is not always straightforward. You may be dealing with pain, time away from your job, and concerns about your family’s future. The goal of compensation is to help you recover and continue supporting your loved ones, but one wrong step in the process could cost you the benefits you deserve. Avoiding common mistakes is essential to securing your claim.

At Schlack & Bassmaji, we guide injured workers in Waukegan through each stage of the process so they do not have to worry about legal errors or insurance company tactics. Our focus is on making sure you receive proper medical care and the financial support you need to protect your household.

Delaying Your Injury Report

One of the most common errors workers make is waiting too long to notify their employer about an injury. In Illinois, you must report a workplace accident within 45 days. Failing to act quickly can give the insurance company grounds to deny your claim. Even if your symptoms seem minor at first, it is important to document the incident right away.

We encourage workers to protect themselves by reporting immediately. Our attorneys ensure your report is accurate, and we handle communication with employers and insurers so your claim begins on firm footing.

Allowing the Employer to Choose Your Doctor

Illinois law gives you the right to choose your own physician for treatment. Too many workers accept the doctor recommended by their employer, not realizing that this often benefits the insurance company more than the injured worker.

At Schlack & Bassmaji, we work with trusted doctors who will provide the care you need and wait for payment until your case concludes. This arrangement ensures you get treatment that focuses on your health and recovery, not the insurance company’s costs.

Missing Deadlines That Protect Your Rights

Time limits can make or break your claim. In Illinois, workers generally have three years from the date of the injury or two years from the last compensation payment to file a claim. If a municipal entity such as a government building or city bus is involved, the statute of limitations is only one year. Missing these deadlines could mean losing your right to benefits.

We carefully track every deadline for our clients, ensuring that no filing date is overlooked and that your claim stays valid under Illinois law.

Trying to Handle the Claim Without Legal Help

Insurance companies often take advantage of workers who do not have representation. They may deny claims, delay benefits, or offer settlements that are far too low to support a family. Attempting to manage the process alone can leave you vulnerable to these tactics.

By working with a competent attorney, you have experienced advocates who fight for the full value of your claim. We know how to gather evidence, calculate benefits, and appeal if necessary. We are also proud to serve Waukegan’s diverse community with bilingual services, ensuring Spanish-speaking workers have equal access to justice and understand their rights clearly.

Speak with a Waukegan Attorney to Avoid Common Workers’ Compensation Mistakes

Mistakes during the workers’ compensation process can put your family’s future at risk. You deserve compensation that allows you to recover and continue providing for your loved ones. At Schlack & Bassmaji, we bring decades of experience and a strong commitment to protecting injured workers in Waukegan.

Do not let avoidable errors prevent you from securing the benefits you are entitled to. Contact us today to speak with a lawyer who will guide you every step of the way.