The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) is a government organization that handles workers’ comp claims within the state. Their main duties are to oversee workers’ compensation and resolve disputes between injured workers and their employers. If you file a workers’ compensation claim and it’s denied, there’s a good chance you’ll have to deal with the IWCC in order to secure benefits.
What Does the IWCC Do?
The IWCC oversees workers’ compensation in the state of Illinois. Largely, that involves overseeing claims and hearing disputes between workers and employers. They make rulings on whether workers are to be paid benefits or not, and as a result, create case law that can be referenced in future cases.
For instance, any time the IWCC makes a decision on whether an injured worker should receive benefits after their employer denies them, the details of that decision are recorded. That information can be used to inform future decisions on substantially similar cases.
The Commission also provides various informational resources for employees, employers, and insurance companies. That information includes FAQs, forms, and information on rules, processes, and deadlines.
When Should I Contact the IWCC?
In the event that you’re injured at work, you’ll notify your employer of your injuries. They will then file an accident report with the IWCC. Usually, you won’t need to get involved with the Commission yourself aside from checking on the status of your claim through their website.
If your employer denies your claim, then you’ll need to get the process started of appealing to the IWCC with an Application for Adjustment of Claim. Even if you end up settling with your employer and their insurance company before your hearing occurs, it’s still important to get this process started since:
- There is a three-year time limit on filing workers’ compensation claims;
- Delaying could undermine the validity/urgency of your case, and;
- You’ll be able to secure your benefits sooner.
If it’s left until after three years, either your case will be dismissed or you’ll take it to trial unless you can demonstrate that it should stay open. Throughout this process, it’s best to have an attorney work with you and the Commission to make sure your benefits are secured.
Resolving Workers’ Compensation Disputes
If you have been injured in a workplace accident, your first step is to get medical help. From there, report your injury to your employer, and check with them regularly on the progress of your claim, the need for additional paperwork, etc.
In addition, you’ll want to contact a workers’ compensation attorney, especially if your injury is severe or if you need time off work. In the event that your employer denies your claim, you’ll need the guidance of an attorney to help you through the process, including submitting a claim to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. They’ll represent you throughout the arbitration hearings as well as during settlement negotiations with the insurance company.
When it comes to securing workers’ compensation benefits, Hart David Carson LLP can represent you through every stage of the process. Contact our attorneys today to schedule a consultation.