The number one misstep made in Illinois workers’ compensation cases is failing to promptly report your injury to your employer. Some employees may report their injury to their doctor, thinking that is sufficient. You must report your injury to your employer within 45 days. Other common missteps include:
“Doctor jumping” between various medical providers, without obtaining the necessary referrals for care;
Not seeking medical treatment, in hopes that your symptoms will just “go away;” and,
Believing you don’t have a valid workers’ compensation claim because you have a pre-existing condition (a pre-existing condition that is aggravated by a workplace injury or illness is eligible for coverage).