Illinois workers compensation covers most workplace injuries — but it may not be your only option. Third-party claims can provide significantly more compensation.
Legal notice: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state — always consult a licensed attorney before making any legal decisions.
Statute of Limitations
Illinois workers compensation: report injury immediately. Personal injury claims against third parties: 2 years from the date of injury.
Illinois requires employers with 1 or more employees to carry workers compensation insurance (820 ILCS 305/1 et seq.). Illinois provides medical treatment, temporary total disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent partial disability benefits. Illinois also has a specific procedure for resolving disputes through the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC).
Illinois-Specific Tip
Illinois workers compensation disputes are heard by arbitrators at the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission. Illinois has specific rules about choice of physician — you are entitled to one choice of treating physician and one referral. An Illinois workers comp attorney is recommended for any disputed claim.
📊 Illinois's workers compensation system processes tens of thousands of claims annually. Third-party claims are frequently overlooked but can dramatically increase total recovery.
Report the injury to your supervisor in writing immediately
Seek medical attention immediately
File a workers compensation claim with your employer under Illinois law
Document all expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket costs
Evaluate whether any third party contributed to your injury
Contact a Illinois workplace injury attorney to evaluate all available claims
Illinois requires employers with 1 or more employees to carry workers compensation insurance (820 ILCS 305/1 et seq.). Illinois provides medical treatment, temporary total disability at 2/3 of wages, and permanent partial disability benefits. Illinois also has a specific procedure for resolving disputes through the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission (IWCC).
Generally workers compensation is the exclusive remedy against your direct employer. However you can still pursue third-party claims against any other party whose negligence contributed to your injury — contractors, equipment manufacturers, and property owners.
Even if your employer carries workers compensation, you can sue any third party whose negligence contributed to your injury. These third-party claims can include pain and suffering damages that workers comp does not cover, and can be pursued simultaneously with a workers comp claim.
No upfront cost. Contingency fees — you only pay if you win.
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The information provided on InjuryCorner is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Nothing on this site should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary by state and individual circumstances differ — the content on this page may not apply to your specific situation. InjuryCorner makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of any information on this site. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Always consult a licensed personal injury attorney in your jurisdiction before making any legal decisions. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and InjuryCorner or any attorney listed on the platform.