The majority of employers are legally required to carry workers compensation insurance. If they fail to do so, they are in violation of the law and can face stiff financial penalties. But if you've been injured on the job and your employer doesn't carry the required insurance, there are still legal options that can be explored with a workers compensation lawyer. Below, a few of these options are discussed in more detail.

How Can a Workers Compensation Lawyer Help You?

1. Meet With a Workers Compensation Lawyer

Your first step should be to schedule a consultation with an attorney who practices workers comp law. This is a complex legal area, and you want the skills, experience, and peace of mind that comes with having a legal professional on your side. A workers compensation lawyer will go over all potential possibilities for getting the financial support you need, and they will represent you in all dealings with employers, workers comp officials, and other parties’ attorneys.

2. File a Lawsuit

In most situations, you will have the option of filing a personal injury lawsuit against your employer. This has specific advantages over a traditional workers comp claim. The injured party can pursue the full amount of damages and will not be prevented by the caps states often put on workers comp claims. Injured persons can also seek compensation for pain and suffering, and, in cases where employer misconduct or negligence played a role in the incident, punitive damages — neither of which are available through standard workers comp.

3. Consider Uninsured Employers' Funds

A lawsuit may not be appropriate for every injured worker. There are expenses involved, and the process can be lengthy. If you require immediate financial support, let your attorney know. They may direct you to the uninsured employers' funds that many states have in place to protect workers in situations like yours. In Illinois, this resource is called the Injured Workers Benefit Fund; more information can be found on the Illinois Workers Compensation Commission website.

Start getting the financial resources you need and deserve by contacting a workers compensation lawyer today. Skinner & Associates, L.L.C., has served Knox County and all of Western Illinois since 2007. Attorney Skinner also offers representation in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Schedule a free initial consultation by calling (309) 343-9964. To learn more about his practice areas, visit his website.