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PTSD And Illinois Workers’ Compensation
We are experienced Illinois work comp attorneys who have helped thousands of people with work related injuries including PTSD. Call us at 312-346-5320 for a free consultation.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a medical condition characterized by the physical and emotional aftereffects of experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can emerge soon after the event or may take months to manifest. These symptoms can significantly disrupt an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks, affecting their work, social interactions, and personal relationships.
Exposure to Traumatic Events at Work
While PTSD is often associated with military personnel and victims of physical or sexual assault, it can also affect individuals in various workplace settings. Certain professions are more susceptible to traumatic events. Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians frequently encounter distressing situations, such as gruesome car accidents or violent incidents. Medical professionals, particularly those in emergency rooms, intensive care units, neonatal intensive care units, and oncology, are also at risk due to the nature of their work. Workplace accidents, such as severe car or truck accidents, machinery malfunctions, or chemical spills, can also lead to PTSD. Additionally, employees may experience trauma from witnessing or being involved in violent events, including shootings, physical assaults, or severe bullying and sexual harassment.
Workers’ Compensation for PTSD
Employees who develop PTSD as a result of work-related incidents may be entitled to compensation under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. While employees cannot sue their employers, they can seek compensation for medical care, therapy, prescriptions, lost wages, and necessary job accommodations. Additionally, a settlement may be available once the employee has recovered.
To pursue a workers’ compensation claim for PTSD, it is essential to report the condition to the employer and seek medical help from a professional. Self-diagnosis is insufficient for a workers’ compensation claim.
Winning An Illinois Work Comp Claim For PTSD
Under Illinois law, general stress from work or a bad boss isn’t enough to get work comp benefits. You have to show you are a victim of a one time, sudden and shocking event. The most common case we’ve helped with is for store workers getting robbed at gunpoint or others who have seen a death or serious injury on the job.
Contact Us
If you are experiencing emotional distress due to a work-related incident, our team is here to help you figure out if you have a case.. We offer confidential consultations free of charge. Contact an attorney at any time at 312-346-5320.