Every once in a while, there’s a story on the news about people hurt in an act of workplace violence. Some are killed. We’ve become used to hearing about it, but we rarely think it could happen close to home. The truth is, it can happen anywhere. If you are a victim of workplace violence, the experienced Peru workplace violence lawyers at Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP can help you file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits in Illinois.
As with workplace accidents, acts of violence are unexpected. These acts come in many different forms. Milder forms include harassment and verbal abuse. But these acts can cause serious injury when they come in the form of a physical altercation, a stabbing, gunshots or the use of any object or vehicle as a weapon.
Workplace Violence Can Have Life-Altering Consequences
Survivors of workplace violence may suffer injuries including wounds, lacerations, strains and sprains, broken bones, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. Victims of violence can also suffer significant mental trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). All of these injuries can leave an employee unable to return to work temporarily, or permanently.
In the state of Illinois, workers hurt in acts of workplace violence are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits pay 100% of the medical expenses for necessary treatment related to the injury. Injured workers can also receive two-thirds of their weekly wages while they are unable to work. And if unable to return to work, they may be eligible for other benefits such as vocational rehabilitation, which can help they receive training an education for a new job.
We Stand Up for Victims And Fight for Compensation
But employers and insurance companies may try to reduce or outright deny their responsibility. They may try to claim that the employee was not actually working at the time of the violence. Or, they may try to downplay the extent of the injury.
That’s why you need an experienced workers’ compensation attorney on your side. We build a strong case based on evidence that proves you should be receiving benefits. If your claim is denied, we will fight for you at all hearings during the appeals process. If needed, we will fight for you in court.
The workers’ compensation process can be difficult and frustrating. Turn to a law firm that knows what it takes to file a successful claim. Schedule your free consultation and learn more about how we can help.
