Recent changes in the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act have created potential new challenges for injured workers. The stated intention of the changes is to make the program more efficient and flexible. However, the changes are significant enough that the average worker will not be aware of their new options and specific requirements for compliance. These new elements of the law make it more important than ever to contact an experienced Illinois workers’ compensation attorney. For example, the amendments that are included in the new compensation establish Preferred Provider Programs. This change affects the manner in which employees select their own […]
There are many types of impairments that qualify individuals for Social Security disability, based on the conditions listed in the Social Security Administration’s impairment listing manual. These physical and mental impairments can allow workers to file a Social Security disability claim with a Social Security disability attorney. Impairments Listed in the Blue Book The SSA‘s listing manual, also referred to as the blue book, has been updated as of 2017 and includes the following: cardiovascular conditions including coronary artery disease or heart failure respiratory illnesses including asthma and COPD speech and sense issues such as hearing and vision loss musculoskeletal issues […]
OSHA records more than 50,000 incidents of workers being struck by falling objects each year. However, not all incidents are reported and investigated. Nationwide, the agency estimates that there are approximately 143 incidents per day. These objects include everything from hand tools and fasteners to steel beams and wooden trusses. When dropped from heights, even light objects have the potential to cause serious personal injuries to the person they strike. Injuries Caused by Falling Objects Falling objects can cause concussions, contusions, lacerations, and broken bones. They can also cause more serious injuries including Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), paralysis, eye/vision loss, […]
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has developed specific regulations and policies for equipment, machinery, and mechanical power transmission devices that are often used in maintenance operations, repair shops, and machine shops. There are several requirements for guarding, physical safety, and electrical safety for many types of machines to maximize employee safety. Failure to meet any of these requirements violates OSHA regulations and can result in serious injury to employees or even death in some cases, making it necessary for businesses to adhere to OSHA’s standards. Pre-Operational Procedures for Workplace Machinery OSHA has several pre-operational procedures that employees and supervisors […]
President Trump recently announced a federal hiring freeze that may delay Social Security disability claims for millions of applicants. A Social Security disability attorney can oversee the claims process for individuals with delayed claims and pending appeals. How Long Do Disability Claims Take? There is no set time frame for a Social Security disability claim to be approved or denied. An average disability claim filed with the Social Security Administration (SSA) can take as long as one year to decide. The length of time it takes for SSA to make a disability determination depends on a broad range of variables […]
Many people are turning to ridesharing services to save money on taxis and travel expenses. For many consumers, this convenience comes at a considerable price to physical safety. As these services grow and expand throughout the state, it is a good bet that the number of reported accidents and injuries caused by ridesharing services will rise. Dangers of Ridesharing Uber, Lyft, and Vugo have minimal requirements for their drivers. They are not required to go through advanced drivers safety training or demonstrate that they can safely operate a motor vehicle. Drivers may operate their vehicle while intoxicated, they may have […]
Black ice is a leading cause of accidents and injuries in the winter months. Created by light rainfall onto frozen surfaces or by freeze-thaw cycles, it is difficult to see and dangerous to travel across. It is especially dangerous in Chicago, where winter weather conditions and the proximity to Lake Michigan create ideal conditions for the formation of black ice. Time of Day & Weather Changes Can Increase Black Ice Risk Black ice typically forms in the early evening as the temperature cools and refreezes any ice that has thawed during the day. It also occurs in the morning or early afternoon […]
When a worker is injured during a break, at lunch or while traveling for business, it can sometimes be unclear whether the injury is covered by workers’ compensation laws. A workers’ compensation attorney can help analyze the specifics of a case to determine whether benefits may be available for such “off-the-clock” injuries. Accidents on the Job Many break time and lunch injuries are eligible to receive workers’ compensation benefits, even if the employee is engaging in an activity for his or her own personal use, such as using the restroom. For example, if a worker is injured while in the […]
There has been a steep increase in SSDI claims over the past decade. The Social Security Administration established guidelines to help determine whether applicants are eligible. Does the applicant meet the minimum work credits? How severe is the disability? Can the applicant be trained for a different job? Consulting with an a legal representative will help you determine your eligibility. Review 5 Important Questions An SSDI application has special requirements. The first is a documented work credit. Applicants are required to have worked in an SSDI-covered job for at least 5 of the previous 10 years. The Social Security Administration […]
When you wake up in the morning, the first thing on your mind is probably not, “Hey I should call my attorney.” In fact, it shouldn’t be. An effective attorney is constantly considering the client’s needs, and engages in reliable communication to meet those needs. The attentive attorney has already mapped out a series of steps that will guide the client successfully through the litigation process, up to, and if necessary, a trial. Early on in my experience, I picked up a phrase from a great mentor, who would tell his clients, “The worrying is my job, not yours.” If […]
