When you are injured at work, workers’ compensation may provide benefits for medical treatment, lost wages, and disability. But depending on how the accident happened, workers’ compensation may not be your only source of recovery.

Before accepting a settlement, it is important to determine whether additional compensation may be available.

Workers’ Compensation May Not Be Your Only Option  

Illinois workers’ compensation generally covers employees injured in the course of their employment. However, some workplace accidents also involve a third party that may be legally responsible.

For example, a construction worker injured by defective equipment may have a workers’ compensation claim and potentially a separate claim against the equipment manufacturer or another responsible company.

Third-party claims may also arise when a worker is injured by another contractor, a commercial vehicle, or due to dangerous property conditions.

These claims can be important because they may allow recovery for damages that workers’ compensation does not cover, including pain and suffering in appropriate cases.

One Accident Can Create Multiple Claims

After a serious workplace injury, the question should not simply be how much your workers’ compensation claim is worth. The bigger question is whether every potential source of compensation has been identified.

Who caused the accident? Who owned the equipment or property? Was another contractor involved? Did a defective product contribute to the injury?

These details can significantly affect your financial recovery.

It is also important not to settle before the long-term effects of your injury are understood. Surgery, permanent work restrictions, ongoing medical treatment, or an inability to return to your previous job can dramatically change the value of a claim.

Understand Your Options Before You Settle

Since 1962, Krol, Bongiorno & Given, Ltd. has focused exclusively on protecting injured union and non-union workers throughout Illinois. Our attorneys have handled more than 30,000 workers’ compensation claims and consistently obtain some of the largest settlements and awards before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC).

Before accepting a settlement or assuming workers’ compensation is your only option, speak with an experienced Illinois Workers’ Compensation attorney who can evaluate the accident and determine whether additional compensation may be available.