Workers’ Comp Defense For Fairview Heights Construction Companies
Construction companies face many workers’ compensation issues. Job sites can involve heavy equipment, subcontractors, falls, lifting and other hazards. When an employee reports an injury, employers need to act quickly. They must also protect their business and handle the claim properly.
At Keefe & DePauli, P.C., we have over 70 years of combined experience, and we focus primarily on workers’ compensation on behalf of employers and businesses. Our lawyers defend construction companies against workers’ compensation claims. We review disputed injuries and represent employers before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. If your business faces a claim, we can help you review your case and decide how to move forward.
How Workers’ Comp Applies To Illinois Construction Jobs
Illinois workers’ compensation law generally covers employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Construction work can involve many risks due to the nature of the job. It is often considered high-risk under Illinois workers’ compensation practice, with injuries such as:
- Falls from heights or other falls
- Equipment accidents
- Struck-by injuries
- Lifting injuries
- Repetitive trauma
- Conditions that work makes worse
Workers’ compensation benefits do not usually depend on who caused an injury. Still, employers and insurers can challenge a claim. For example, they may question whether the injury happened at work or whether the employee needs the benefits claimed.
Employers should review the accident report, medical records, work records and other evidence as soon as possible. A prompt review can help show what happened. It can also uncover issues that may affect the claim.
Understanding Benefits For Construction Injuries
An eligible employee may receive several types of workers’ compensation benefits. These may include medical care, temporary disability benefits, permanent disability benefits and vocational rehabilitation. The benefits available to an employee depend on the type and severity of their injury, as well as other factors such as their ability to work and how long recovery will take.
It is important for employers to review each claim to determine which benefits may apply. The defense may focus on how the injury happened and whether work caused it. It may also address the need for treatment or whether the employee can return to work.
Third-Party Liability After A Construction Accident
A construction accident may involve someone other than the employer. For example, a subcontractor, property owner, equipment maker or another company may have caused the accident or played a part in it.
A third-party claim is not the same as a workers’ compensation claim. Workers’ compensation covers benefits for a work injury. A third-party claim may seek money from another party whose actions caused the injury.
Responding To A Construction Workers’ Comp Claim
When an employee reports an injury, take the report seriously. Follow your company’s workers’ compensation procedures and act quickly. Early action can help preserve evidence and provide a clearer view of the claim. Important steps include:
- Record when, where and how the injury occurred. Identify witnesses and anyone else who may have useful information.
- Preserve photos, video, equipment records, safety records, work schedules and other evidence.
- Report the claim to your workers’ compensation insurer or claims administrator.
- Review medical information and any work restrictions provided by the employee.
- Keep records of the employee’s work status, wages and communications about the claim.
Illinois employers also have specific workers’ compensation duties. These include maintaining required insurance, posting required notices, keeping injury records and reporting certain accidents to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.
Under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, an injured employee must notify the employer of an accident as soon as practicable, generally no later than 45 days after the event, though specific statutory exceptions apply for certain conditions such as radiological exposure or occupational diseases. Some circumstances may affect how this rule applies. Employers should address reported injuries as soon as possible.
Protect Your Bottom Line: Call Us Today
A workers’ compensation claim can affect your company’s costs, operations and insurance. Early legal guidance can help you review the claim and protect your interests.
Keefe & DePauli, P.C., has over 70 years of combined experience and focuses only on workers’ compensation defense. If you need a construction workers’ comp attorney, contact 618-537-1478 or send us an email to discuss your options and how we can help with your defense.