Airline employees throughout the Chicago area face physically demanding tasks in their jobs daily. When an accident with injury occurs, you face consequences that can significantly affect your livelihood.
If you were recently injured while working at the airport, including at O’Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway International Airport (MDW), or while working for the airline, you might be worrying about lost shifts and the mounting medical bills. In Illinois, the law offers protection and a path for you to seek compensation. Understanding the legal landscape is the first step in filing a workers’ compensation claim.
Your coverage under Illinois law
Your work exposes you to multiple kinds of accident hazards. You can sustain an injury in various ways, including due to severe turbulence, jet engine noise and falls from height.
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act gives you the right to file a claim for a work-related injury, regardless of who was at fault. However, it is important to note that jurisdiction matters. You can generally file a claim in the state if you meet any one of these conditions:
- You signed an employment contract in Illinois.
- The injury occurred in Illinois.
- Your employment is principally localized in Illinois.
With an approved claim, you may receive coverage for reasonable and necessary medical expenses, as well as disability payments to compensate for lost wages and permanent physical impairment.
Key deadlines to remember
Workers’ compensation claims for airline employees have the same requirements as those in other industries. You must notify your employer as soon as practicable, but no later than 45 days after the accident. While the law requires oral notice, providing written notice would be wise to build a paper trail.
Moreover, you generally have three years from the date of injury or two years from the date of the last compensation payment to file a formal claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC). While you have ample time for filing, waiting too long can give your employer a reason to deny your benefits.
Filing a claim with legal help
You have the right to seek compensation for an injury that occurred while working. While Illinois law offers a clear path for injured workers, you may face hurdles that could jeopardize your claim. When your recovery is on the line, you do not have to face this alone. Seeking legal counsel can help you navigate the process without doubts.