Personal Injury Law Blog

Injured workers in Chicago and throughout Illinois have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim if they are hurt or fall ill on the job. A recent case, however, highlights the reality that benefits are not always guaranteed. Having experienced legal representation on your side can increase your chances of getting the financial support you deserve after a work injury.

The Illinois Appellate Court decided that a temporary university worker did not qualify for benefits for the injuries she sustained in a fall. The court found that she failed to prove her injuries were work-related.

Emily Purcell worked as an administrative assistant for the University of Illinois. She fell when trying to jump over a chain barrier to drop off her timecard at the Personnel Services Building. She injured her right elbow and had surgery about a week later.

Purcell filed a case against the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission after her claim for benefits was denied. However, the appellate court sided with the commission in ruling that her injuries occurred outside the scope of her employment. The university said it did not pay temporary workers for the time taken to hand in their timecards.

In some workers’ compensation cases, an employer may try to show that your injuries did not arise out of your employment. If you are having difficulties getting the benefits you deserve, discuss your situation with the qualified Chicago workers’ compensation attorneys at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. We can help you through the process of filing a claim correctly and resolve any issues you are facing.