Illinois Injury Attorneys
We represent injured workers throughout Chicago and Cook County, with a strong focus on working-class neighborhoods on the South Side, West Side, and Northwest Side. This includes communities such as Bridgeport, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, Brighton Park, Garfield Ridge, Clearing, Jefferson Park, Portage Park, Belmont Cragin, as well as Pilsen, Little Village, Humboldt Park, and Cicero. We also regularly help injured workers from South Shore, Chatham, Englewood, Austin, and North Lawndale. Our office is located at 105 W Madison St, Suite 1600, in downtown Chicago, and we proudly serve clients in English and Spanish.
Our downtown office is located at 105 W Madison St, Suite 1600, just minutes from the Daley Center and the Chicago Loop,easily accessible via the Red, Brown, Pink, Orange, and Blue CTA lines, as well as multiple nearby Metra stations, making it easy to reach our office from neighborhoods across Chicago and the suburbs.
If your injury was denied, delayed, or underpaid, our attorneys regularly help workers challenge insurance decisions — see what to do if your workers’ compensation claim is denied in Illinois.
Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Hurt at work in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois? Our workers’ compensation attorneys help injured workers secure medical treatment, wage benefits, and fair settlements — even if the accident was partly your fault. We guide you through the Illinois workers’ comp system from start to finish so you don’t have to fight the insurance company alone.
- 25+ Years Protecting Chicago Workers
- No Fee Unless We Win Your Case
- Free Consultation · Se Habla Español
Why Chicago Workers Trust Our Workers’ Compensation Lawyers
At McHargue & Jones, LLC, we focus on standing up for injured employees and their families throughout Chicago and across Illinois. When your health and income are on the line, you need a law firm that knows the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act and the no-fault workers’ compensation system, and is ready to push back against the insurance company.
- Millions of dollars recovered for injured workers in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
- 25+ years of experience handling complex workers’ compensation and serious work injury cases.
- No fee unless we win – you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
- Direct access to your lawyer and a team that keeps you informed at each stage of your case.
- Spanish-speaking office (Se Habla Español) to serve our Spanish-speaking clients.
- Full work injury support – denied claims, appeals, third-party lawsuits, and long-term disability issues.
Do I Have an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Case?
In Illinois, workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. That means you may be eligible for benefits for a job-related injury or illness even if the accident was partly your fault, as long as the injury arose out of and in the course of your employment.
In general, you may have an Illinois workers’ comp case if:
- Your injury or illness happened while you were performing your job or because of your work conditions.
- You reported the injury to your employer within 45 days of the accident or when you discovered the condition.
- You needed medical treatment and/or missed work because of the injury.
If you want a deeper dive into eligibility and how “no-fault” workers’ comp really works, see our guide on Illinois no-fault workers’ compensation.
Unsure where you stand? Call (312) 739-0000 or contact us online for a free case review with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer.
What Our Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Do for Injured Workers
Insurance companies and employers don’t always make it easy for injured workers to get full benefits. Our team guides you through the entire process so nothing is missed and your rights stay protected.
- File claims and fix paperwork problems
We prepare and file all required documents, correct mistakes, and make sure deadlines are met so your claim doesn’t get delayed or lost. If you’re just starting your claim, our article on 5 steps to file for workers’ comp in Chicago explains each step in detail. - Secure benefits like TTD, PPD, medical coverage, and wage differential
We work to document your average weekly wage, medical treatment, permanent impairment, and restrictions so you receive every benefit Illinois law allows. For a breakdown of the most common benefit types, see Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Illinois and our 2025 guide on how much workers’ comp pays in Illinois. - Coordinate with doctors and, when applicable, union representatives
We communicate with your treating physicians and your union to keep your care and claim moving in the right direction. Learn more about the workers and unions we represent. - Protect your rights at every stage
From your first report of injury through settlement or hearing, we stand by you, answer your questions, and fight for the outcome you deserve. If your case is denied or benefits are cut off, our article on denied workers’ comp in Illinois explains what happens next.
Most Illinois employers are required to provide workers’ compensation benefits to employees who are injured on the job, including repetitive motion injuries, falls, and exposure to dangerous chemicals. A knowledgeable Illinois workers’ comp attorney can help you understand your rights and the full range of benefits you may be entitled to.
Common Illinois Work Injuries Our Chicago Workers’ Comp Lawyers Handle
Work injuries can happen in any industry. Our firm represents injured workers throughout Chicago and Illinois, including:
- Back and neck injuries from lifting, slips, falls, or repetitive strain.
- Shoulder and rotator cuff injuries from heavy or awkward lifting.
- Carpal tunnel and cumulative trauma injuries caused by repetitive motion and long-term wear and tear.
- Slip, trip, and fall accidents on wet, uneven, or cluttered surfaces.
- Warehouse, factory, and delivery driver injuries, including Amazon and logistics workers.
- Construction and trade accidents involving tools, ladders, scaffolding, or machinery.
- Healthcare worker injuries from lifting patients or exposure to hazards.
- Injuries caused by toxic or dangerous substances in the workplace.
If your injury developed over time, such as back, shoulder, or hand pain from repetitive work, visit our guides on what cumulative injuries are and how to prove a repetitive trauma injury in Illinois workers’ comp.
If you’ve been hurt on the job, we’ll help you understand what benefits you qualify for and how to move your claim forward.
Illinois Workers’ Compensation Benefits: What You May Be Entitled To
Workers’ compensation benefits are meant to replace lost wages, cover medical bills, and support your recovery after a work-related injury or illness. Common Illinois workers’ comp benefits include:
| Benefit Type | What It Pays | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Total Disability (TTD) | A portion of your average weekly wage | When you’re completely unable to work during your recovery |
| Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) | Compensation for permanent impairment or loss of use of a body part | After you reach maximum medical improvement but still have a lasting condition |
| Wage Differential | Partial replacement of lost income | When you return to work at a lower-paying job because of your restrictions |
| Medical Benefits | Reasonable and necessary medical treatment for your work injury | For authorized care related to your injury or occupational disease |
| Vocational Rehabilitation | Job training, retraining, or placement assistance | If you cannot return to your previous occupation because of your injuries |
For more detail on each category, visit our article on types of workers’ comp benefits in Illinois and our 2025 guide on how much Illinois workers’ comp pays (TTD, TPD, maintenance, AWW).
Questions about how PTO, vacation time, or sick days interact with your claim? See PTO & vacation time and workers’ comp in Illinois.
How Workers’ Compensation Works in Illinois
Illinois law requires almost every employer to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This is a no-fault system, meaning you can receive benefits for a job-related injury or illness even if the accident wasn’t your employer’s fault — or even if it was partly yours.
When you’re hurt at work, workers’ comp should cover:
- Medical treatment and rehabilitation for your work injury.
- A portion of your lost wages while you’re off work healing.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement benefits, when applicable.
- Vocational retraining if you cannot return to the same kind of work.
To protect your claim, you must report your injury within 45 days and follow the process to file a workers’ compensation case. Acting quickly and getting accurate documentation from your doctor are key to avoiding delays and denials. For a step-by-step overview, read our guide on 5 steps to file for workers’ comp in Chicago.
Can I Be Fired for Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Illinois?
Many injured workers worry that they will lose their job if they report an injury or file a workers’ compensation claim. In Illinois, most jobs are at-will, which means an employer can terminate employment for many reasons — but it is illegal to fire, harass, or punish you because you exercised your rights under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.
Proving retaliation can be difficult, especially when an employer offers no reason for termination. If you believe you were fired, demoted, or treated unfairly after reporting a work injury, talk to our team right away. We can review what happened and explain your options.
Call (312) 739-0000 to speak directly with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer about your situation.
Third-Party Liability: Can You Sue If You’re Hurt at Work?
Workers’ compensation is usually your exclusive remedy against your employer. However, if a third party (someone other than your employer or co-worker) contributed to your accident, you may have a separate personal injury claim in addition to your workers’ comp case.
Examples of possible third parties include:
- Manufacturers of defective machinery, tools, or equipment.
- Drivers employed by another company who cause a crash while you’re working.
- Owners or managers of dangerous offsite properties where you were working.
- Contractors or subcontractors whose negligence led to your injury.
To learn more about when you can sue outside of workers’ comp, see our article on whether you can sue if you’re hurt at work in Illinois.
These Industries Face High Workplace Injury Rates
Every year, thousands of Illinois workers suffer job-related injuries and illnesses, and many of them are right here in the Chicago area. Some occupations see higher rates of serious injuries, including:
- Freight warehousing stockers and logistics workers.
- Truck drivers and delivery drivers.
- Nursing assistants and other healthcare workers.
- Auto mechanics and technicians.
- Construction workers and tradespeople.
- Agricultural and outdoor laborers.
To see the types of workers and unions we regularly help, visit our Workers We Represent page.
Can I Get Workers’ Comp If the Injury Was My Fault?
In most cases, yes. Illinois workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, which means benefits are generally available even when an employee’s own mistake or ordinary negligence contributed to the accident.
Injuries Caused by Mistakes or Ordinary Negligence
Accidents caused by forgetfulness, failure to follow a procedure perfectly, or other ordinary errors are often still covered. The key question is usually whether the injury occurred in the course of your employment — not who was to blame.
Injuries Caused by Misconduct or Gross Negligence
Benefits may be limited or denied when injuries are caused by serious misconduct, such as working under the influence of drugs or alcohol, intentionally horseplaying, or knowingly misusing dangerous equipment. To better understand how fault and no-fault interact, read our explainer on Illinois no-fault workers’ compensation.
Slip and Fall Workplace Accidents: Including Ice in Parking Lots
Slip and fall injuries are among the most common workplace accidents in Illinois and often lead to workers’ compensation claims. These accidents can happen in almost any environment — from offices and hospitals to factories and construction sites.
Common causes include:
- Wet or freshly mopped floors.
- Uneven or damaged surfaces.
- Ice, snow, or moisture accumulation in parking lots or walkways.
- Obstructed or cluttered walkways.
- Loose floorboards, mats, or carpeting.
- Poor lighting or hidden tripping hazards.
If you slipped on ice in a work parking lot, our article on slipping on ice at work in an Illinois parking lot explains when these injuries are covered and what to do next.
Insurance companies often try to deny or minimize slip and fall claims. Document the scene, get names of witnesses, seek medical care right away, and talk to a workers’ comp attorney as soon as you can.
When Do You Need a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Illinois?
Some straightforward claims may be resolved without a lawyer, but many injured workers are better protected when they have an attorney. You should strongly consider hiring a workers’ comp lawyer if:
- Your claim was denied or disputed.
- The insurance company questions your disability rating or work restrictions.
- You had a preexisting condition in the same body part.
- Your medical treatment is being delayed, denied, or cut off.
- You cannot return to your prior job or cannot work in the same capacity.
- You are receiving other benefits, such as Social Security Disability.
- You have been asked to attend a hearing before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.
If you feel stuck with your current attorney or communication has broken down, our article on switching lawyers in an Illinois workers’ comp case explains what injured workers need to know.
Curious about cost? Learn how fees work in our guide to how much a workers’ comp lawyer costs in Illinois.
Real Illinois Workers’ Compensation Results
When you’re choosing a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer, results matter. Our case results show how we fight for injured workers across Illinois in serious work injury and workers’ comp claims.
We have recovered significant settlements and awards for union workers, factory workers, construction workers, healthcare workers, logistics and warehouse workers, and many others whose injuries ended or limited their careers.
To see examples of the outcomes we’ve achieved, visit our Winning Results page.
How Much Is My Illinois Workers’ Comp Case Worth?
Every case is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all workers’ comp settlement amount. The value of your case depends on factors like your medical treatment, permanent restrictions, wage loss, future medical needs, and whether you can return to your old job.
We cover these factors in detail in our article on what your Illinois workers’ comp case may be worth and our guide on five questions to ask about your settlement offer.
If you’ve undergone a Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) or been given permanent restrictions, our article on how FCEs and permanent restrictions affect workers’ comp settlements in Illinois explains how that can change the value of your claim.
What If My Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied or My Checks Are Late?
Unfortunately, many legitimate claims are denied or underpaid at first. Other times, workers’ comp checks arrive late or suddenly stop without explanation.
- For a full overview of what to do if your case is denied, see Denied Workers’ Comp in Illinois.
- If your temporary disability checks are late or inconsistent, see What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Check Is Late in Illinois.
If you’re dealing with any of these issues, it’s a good time to talk to a Chicago workers’ comp lawyer about your rights and the next steps.
Workers’ Compensation FAQ
What benefits can I receive under workers’ compensation?
Workers’ compensation may cover medical bills, rehabilitation, future treatment costs, a portion of lost wages, short-term and long-term disability, and vocational rehabilitation if you cannot return to your old job. The exact benefits depend on your injury, your restrictions, and your wage history. For more detail, see Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Illinois.
How much does workers’ comp pay in Illinois?
The amount workers’ comp pays each week depends on your average weekly wage, whether you are totally off work or working with restrictions, and the type of benefit you’re receiving. Our 2025 guide to how much workers’ comp pays in Illinois explains TTD, TPD, maintenance, and AWW in plain language.
What causes most workplace injuries?
Many injuries are linked to inadequate training, unsafe work environments, failure to follow safety rules, unreasonable work schedules, malfunctioning machinery, poorly maintained equipment, or exposure to dangerous substances and chemicals. In repetitive trauma cases, injuries can be caused by years of the same motions or heavy physical work — see What Are Cumulative Injuries? for more.
What should I do after a workplace accident?
Seek medical care immediately, report the injury to a supervisor, and ask about the process for filing a workers’ compensation claim. You generally must report your injury within 45 days. Our guide on 5 steps to file for workers’ comp in Chicago walks you through what to do.
How long do I have to file a workers’ comp claim in Illinois?
In most cases, you must report your injury to your employer within 45 days, and you generally have up to three years from the date of injury (or two years from the last payment of compensation, whichever is later) to file a formal claim. Waiting too long can seriously hurt your case.
How much does a workers’ comp lawyer cost in Illinois?
Illinois workers’ comp attorneys typically work on a contingency fee, which means you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless you recover. The fee percentage is regulated by law. For more details, see How Much Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Cost in Illinois?.
Illinois Workers’ Comp Resources for Injured Workers
We’ve created a library of Illinois workers’ compensation guides to help injured workers understand their rights, benefits, and next steps:
- Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Illinois
- How Much Does Workers’ Comp Pay in Illinois? (2025 Guide)
- PTO & Vacation Time and Workers’ Comp in Illinois
- What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Check Is Late in Illinois
- What Is My Illinois Workers’ Comp Case Worth?
- 5 Questions to Ask About Your Workers’ Comp Settlement Offer
- How FCEs & Permanent Restrictions Affect Settlements
- What Are Cumulative Injuries?
- How to Prove a Repetitive Trauma Injury in Illinois Workers’ Comp
- Slipped on Ice in a Work Parking Lot in Illinois
- Can You Sue If You’re Hurt at Work in Illinois?
- Denied Workers’ Comp in Illinois
- 5 Steps to File for Workers’ Comp in Chicago
- How Much Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Cost in Illinois?
- Can I Switch Lawyers in an Illinois Workers’ Comp Case?
- Illinois No-Fault Workers’ Compensation Explained
- Workers We Represent
- 10 Things to Know About Illinois Workers’ Compensation
Know Your Workplace Rights · Free Consultation with a Chicago Workers’ Comp Lawyer
Workers’ compensation laws protect employees from unsafe conditions and unfair treatment after an injury. At McHargue & Jones, LLC, our Chicago workers’ compensation attorneys treat every case with the care and attention it deserves. We fight aggressively for injured workers and are prepared to fight for you.
We offer free consultations and handle workers’ comp cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay attorney’s fees unless we win compensation for you.
Call (312) 739-0000 or use the contact form below to schedule your free evaluation with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer. You can also review our Winning Results to see how we’ve helped workers like you.
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Millions of Dollars Recovered for Injured Victims
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Telephone No.3127390000