A car accident while you are working can leave you with serious injuries, medical bills and questions about your next steps. If the crash happened while you performed your job duties, you may have more than one way to seek compensation. Knowing how workers’ compensation and third-party claims work can help you understand your options after an accident.
Workers’ compensation may cover your work injury
If you are injured in a car crash while working, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois. These benefits usually cover medical treatment and replace part of your lost wages. You do not need to prove that someone caused the crash to receive workers’ compensation.
Your injury may qualify if the accident happened while you were performing work duties. This can include driving a company vehicle, making deliveries or completing other job-related tasks. Keep in mind that you must report your injury to your employer within Illinois’s mandatory 45-day notice window
A third-party claim may provide additional recovery
Workers’ compensation may not cover every loss caused by your injuries. If another driver caused the crash, you may also have the option to file a personal injury claim against that person.
A third-party claim may allow you to seek benefits for any losses that workers’ compensation typically cannot cover, such as pain and suffering and additional lost income. Having both claims available may help you address the full impact of your injuries.
Managing both claims requires coordination
Handling a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party claim at the same time can become complicated. The timing of a settlement can affect your recovery. Your employer or its insurance carrier may have a right to receive reimbursement from money you recover through a third-party claim.
A law firm familiar with both types of cases may help coordinate your claims, communicate with insurance companies and protect your potential recovery. Careful planning may help you avoid mistakes that could reduce your available compensation.
Experience with both claims can make a difference
Workers’ compensation and personal injury cases involve different rules and procedures. Working with a firm that handles both areas may help create a more complete strategy for your situation.
An attorney can help protect your rights by ensuring compliance with strict statutory deadlines, including Illinois’s 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits and the 3-year filing window for Workers’ Compensation claims. Managing both claims through one legal team may also reduce confusion and improve communication.
Taking steps after a work-related crash
After a work-related car accident, consider learning about all available options before making decisions about your claims. A law firm experienced in workers’ compensation and personal injury cases may be able to review your situation and explain possible next steps.
Keep records of your accident, medical treatment and related expenses. Promptly reporting the crash to your employer and documenting your medical treatment are critical to preserving your right to benefits.