When a person is injured on the job, they may be entitled to receive certain benefits through the Illinois workers’ compensation system. Employees may be aware that their employer must provide medical benefits related to the injury and cover a portion of their lost wages while they are off of work. Residents may not realize that they may also be entitled to receive vocational rehabilitation services as well. These services often help workers get back on their feet after suffering an injury that forces them to change careers. Damon Young is a Peoria workers’ compensation attorney who is familiar with the types of benefits available to Illinois residents who are injured at work. He prides himself on providing high-level customer service to assist his clients in getting the benefits they deserve. Our lawyer also serves clients in Bloomington and other Central Illinois cities. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Workers’ compensation attorney assisting Peoria employees with obtaining vocational rehabilitation benefits
An unexpected injury while on the job can impact one’s life in many ways. Obvious consequences may include the need for short-term emergency medical treatment and time off work to recover. When injuries are more serious, however, the injured party may require ongoing medical care or may be permanently prevented from returning to their original job. One may be entitled to recover lost wages and medical expenses through a workers’ comp claim. What happens, however, when one is forced to seek a new profession after an injury occurs? Suppose, for example, a person who loses his fingers in a manufacturing accident may not be able to return to his pre-injury position. With the help of job training, education, or other coaching, he may be able to pursue a different career path. Under Illinois law, an injured worker who is unable to return to his previous job may be entitled to receive vocational rehabilitation benefits. Such benefits include job search assistance, job retraining, or education through an accredited facility. The employer must pay for reasonable rehabilitation services and all related incidental costs and expenses. Eligible claimants may also receive ongoing payments for lost wages during the rehabilitation process.
As with other workers’ compensation claims, injured parties may have to fight to receive the job retraining benefits to which they are entitled. This could be for a variety of reasons. Workers must report their injuries and make formal workers’ comp claims within specific deadlines. Failure to do so may delay or preclude one from receiving benefits. In other instances, employers or their insurance companies may challenge claims for a variety of reasons. Arguments that the employee is exaggerating the injury, engaged in misconduct at the time, or is seeking unreasonable benefits, may lead to a claim’s dismissal. It is important to contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible after an accident to help ensure that your rights are preserved.
Damon Young is a Peoria lawyer helping injured employees obtain the vocational rehabilitation benefits to which they are entitled. When a victim has suffered a workplace injury, obtaining job training and education benefits can help the employee move on with their life. Damon knows how important these benefits can be for one’s future. He will work hard to understand your injuries and how they impact your ability to return to your pre-injury job. He will take prompt action to request payment of your benefits, including medical expenses, lost wages, and vocational rehab costs. He will quickly take the necessary steps to work with your employer, their insurance company, or through the workers’ compensation commission to preserve your rights and expedite payments to the fullest extent possible. In addition, Damon will aggressively challenge disputes and denials of your benefits. We understand that this is a stressful time in your life. We are ready to assist you. Contact us today.
Peoria attorney providing high-level customer service to injured workers
Damon Young is a Peoria attorney who provides his workers’ comp clients with quality customer service. He prides himself in regularly communicating with his clients during their case through emails, phone calls, and in-person meetings. He provides his clients with his cell phone number and encourages them to call with questions or medical updates. If you have been injured on the job and are seeking vocational rehabilitation benefits, contact our office today to speak with a lawyer.
Our firm also serves clients in the Illinois cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington.