Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Belleville

Seasoned Attorneys Representing Clients for Workers’ Comp Claims in Illinois and Missouri

The majority of employers in Illinois and Missouri are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ comp is a “no-fault” system that allows employees who suffer a work-related injury or illness to collect benefits for their time off of work (regardless of who is at fault), receive the medical care they need in order to recover from the injury and receive an amount at the end of the case intended to compensate them for the effects of the injury. In these types of cases, benefits can only be collected through a workers’ comp claim, and injured employees are not allowed to file a civil lawsuit against their employer. However, if a third-party’s negligence has contributed to the injury, there may be an avenue to recovery through that party as well.

Contact Us

The workers’ compensation process can be complex and confusing for the average employee. Employees often find themselves running into roadblocks, needless delays, and unfair denials of their claim. At Nelson & Nelson, we understand the struggles employees often face while navigating the complexities of the workers’ comp system, and we fight hard to make sure our clients gain access to the benefits to which they are entitled. We have represented thousands of individuals over the past four decades, and we have established a successful track record in even the most challenging cases.

Workers' Compensation FAQ

Notable Wins & Settlements

Whatever type of job you have, it is possible to suffer an injury in the workplace. Over the years, we have represented working people from a wide range of industries including:

  • Construction Workers
  • Manufacturing Workers
  • Coal Miners
  • Warehouse Workers
  • Health Care Professionals
  • Heavy Equipment Operators
  • Mechanics
  • Skilled Tradesmen
  • Truck Drivers
  • Office Workers

Contact UsSome of the most common injuries suffered at work include:

  • Joint Injuries such as Shoulder, Knee and Hip injuries
  • Neck and Back Injuries
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Repetitive Trauma Injuries
  • Strains and Sprains
  • Broken Bones
  • Loss of Limbs (Amputation)
  • Burns
  • Electrocution
  • Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Benefits Available in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Sick or injured employees who qualify for workers’ comp benefits can receive compensation for necessary medical care, two-thirds of lost wages, training/rehabilitation necessary to return to work, and compensation for permanent injury. Compensation is based largely on the average weekly wage for for the injured worker in a particular period of time prior to the accident. This period of time can vary by state and by the particular circumstances of your case. Each average weekly wage is different and requires a close examination of the pay you receive. Because this calculation has such an important impact on the value of your case, it is imperative that your attorney evaluates all factors and forms of compensation you earn. Factors regarding average weekly wage include:

  • Duration of Employment
  • Seasonal Employment such as Construction
  • Unavailability of work
  • Union Agreements and Benefits
  • Overtime
  • Commissions
  • Tips
  • Bonuses and Incentive pay
  • Vacation Pay
  • Per Diem Benefits

The formula for calculating average weekly wage can be complicated and fact intensive. There are a great deal of factors to consider. It is very important to have experienced and dedicated attorneys examining all of these facts. Attorneys at Nelson & Nelson are recognized through the entire state of Illinois for their experience and knowledge in calculating average weekly wage. Robert Nelson recorded the video below for the Illinois State Bar Association, describing methods of calculating Average Weekly Wage. Robert Nelson, David Nelson and Reed Nelson have all authored chapters on Average Weekly Wage for the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association.

WC mobile

Benefits Available in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Sick or injured employees who qualify for workers’ comp benefits can receive compensation for necessary medical care, two-thirds of lost wages, training/rehabilitation necessary to return to work, and compensation for permanent injury. Compensation is based largely on the average weekly wage for for the injured worker in a particular period of time prior to the accident. This period of time can vary by state and by the particular circumstances of your case. Each average weekly wage is different and requires a close examination of the pay you receive. Because this calculation has such an important impact on the value of your case, it is imperative that your attorney evaluates all factors and forms of compensation you earn. Factors regarding average weekly wage include:

  • Duration of Employment
  • Seasonal Employment such as Construction
  • Unavailability of work
  • Union Agreements and Benefits
  • Overtime
  • Commissions
  • Tips
  • Bonuses and Incentive pay
  • Vacation Pay
  • Per Diem Benefits

The formula for calculating average weekly wage can be complicated and fact intensive. There are a great deal of factors to consider. It is very important to have experienced and dedicated attorneys examining all of these facts. Attorneys at Nelson & Nelson are recognized through the entire state of Illinois for their experience and knowledge in calculating average weekly wage. Robert Nelson recorded the video below for the Illinois State Bar Association, describing methods of calculating Average Weekly Wage. Robert Nelson, David Nelson and Reed Nelson have all authored chapters on Average Weekly Wage for the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association.

Third-Party Workplace Injuries in Illinois

It is important to note that not all injuries that occur in the workplace fall under the workers’ compensation system. If your illness or injury was the result of the negligence or recklessness of a third-party that is not your employer, then you may have a personal injury claim as well. This type of situation occurs regularly in the construction industry. For example, at a typical construction site, you have employees working alongside several subcontractors who are employed by someone else or self-employed. If an accident were the fault of a third-party subcontractor or general contractor rather than the actions of you or your employer, then you may be able to sue for damages under the state’s personal injury laws.

WC 2Mobile

Third-Party Workplace Injuries in Illinois

It is important to note that not all injuries that occur in the workplace fall under the workers’ compensation system. If your illness or injury was the result of the negligence or recklessness of a third-party that is not your employer, then you may have a personal injury claim as well. This type of situation occurs regularly in the construction industry. For example, at a typical construction site, you have employees working alongside several subcontractors who are employed by someone else or self-employed. If an accident were the fault of a third-party subcontractor or general contractor rather than the actions of you or your employer, then you may be able to sue for damages under the state’s personal injury laws.

Speak with a Skilled Illinois and Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Workers’ comp laws are complicated, and injured employees are routinely denied benefits. At Nelson & Nelson, we put our extensive experience to work to ensure a smooth and seamless process, getting you the compensation you need and deserve. If you have suffered an injury or illness at work, contact us today at (618) 277 5000 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.

WC 5 mobile

Speak with a Skilled Illinois and Missouri Workers’ Compensation Attorney

Workers’ comp laws are complicated, and injured employees are routinely denied benefits. At Nelson & Nelson, we put our extensive experience to work to ensure a smooth and seamless process, getting you the compensation you need and deserve. If you have suffered an injury or illness at work, contact us today at (618) 277 5000 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.

April 21, 2022 in Case Wins, David Nelson, Worker's Compensation

Illinois injured worker obtains $1.25M settlement from third party suit

An electrical lineman was working out of state when an employee of a different company used a track hoe to relocate a large power pole, striking Dave’s client with the…
Read More
October 31, 2019 in Case Wins, Worker's Compensation

Nelson & Nelson Earns $125,000 Workers’ Comp Settlement

In March 2019, Nelson & Nelson partner Nathan Lanter negotiated a settlement for 50 times the amount the client was offered before she hired Lanter to represent her.  When Mr.…
Read More
logo bright red