Situations Where Illinois Workers’ Compensation Does Not Cover an Injury

 Posted on March 27, 2023 in Workers' Compensation

Workers’ compensation is designed to provide benefits to workers who are injured on the job, regardless of who was at fault for the injury. However, there are some situations where workers’ compensation will not cover an injury in Illinois. Today, we will be discussing what situations must exist where workers’ compensation will not cover an injury. Remember, if you have been injured at work, strongly consider seeking the legal counsel of a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure you have the best chance possible to be successful with your claim.

While you may like and respect your employer, it is essential to protect your rights and not hesitate to seek the compensation you may be entitled to under the law. Seek workers’ compensation after an injury does not mean you dislike or do not respect your employer. It simply means you are looking out for and caring about your well-being.

Instances Where Workers’ Compensation Benefits May Be Denied

Here are examples of when someone may not qualify to receive workers’ compensation benefits, including:

• Injuries outside of work – Workers’ compensation only covers injuries that occur while the worker performs their job duties. If the injury occurs outside of work, such as during a lunch break or while commuting to or from work, it may not be covered by workers’ compensation.
• Self-inflicted injuries – Workers’ compensation will not cover intentionally self-inflicted injuries. This includes injuries resulting from a worker’s own reckless or intentional behavior.
• Injuries caused by intoxication – If the worker was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the injury, workers’ compensation benefits might be denied.
• Violation of company policy - If the worker was injured while violating company policy, such as operating machinery without proper training, the workers’ compensation claim would likely be denied.
• Injuries sustained while committing a crime – If the worker was injured while committing a crime, like theft or assault, workers’ compensation benefits will likely be denied.
• Injuries sustained during a fight – Workers’ compensation may not cover injuries sustained during a physical altercation with a coworker or third party if the altercation was unrelated to the worker’s job duties.

Contact an Aurora, IL Workers’ Compensation Attorney

For matters related to workers’ compensation claims, feel free to contact the experienced and astute Kane County workers’ compensation lawyers with Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Masur P.C. With our experience and knowledge of workers’ compensation in Illinois, you can trust that you will be in good hands. Give us a call at 630-907-0909 for a free consultation today.

Source - https://www.insurancebusinessmag.com/us/news/workers-comp/common-reasons-why-workers-compensation-claims-are-denied--and-how-to-avoid-them-428672.aspx