Can Teachers in Illinois File Workers’ Compensation Claims?

Teachers face workplace safety hazards just like other employees in Illinois. Some might argue that this profession is becoming increasingly dangerous due to rising behavioral issues among students. School bus crashes are also on the rise, and teachers might suffer significant injuries after slipping and falling. What can you do after an injury at your school? Can a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer help you pursue compensation?

Teachers Are Eligible to File Workers’ Compensation Claims 

You may have heard that government employees are not allowed to file normal workers’ comp claims. While it is true that some government workers must pursue compensation from different sources, this doesn’t apply to teachers. Illinois teachers are employed by school districts, and they can file workers’ compensation claims just like every other worker.

How Does My Teachers Union Affect My Workers’ Compensation Claim? 

No, your membership in the Chicago Teachers Union will not affect your ability to file a workers’ compensation claim. The CTU states that if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim, you should report the injury as soon as possible to your supervisor. Next, you should call the management company that is currently administering the CTU’s workers’ compensation program. You can contact this company at 866-251-9251.

Although you can carry out many of these steps on your own, you might also want to speak with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer before moving forward. The CTU specifically recommends that injured teachers “consult an attorney before settling a claim” – especially after a serious injury.

Don’t Forget About Assault Leave 

Assault leave is an additional benefit provided to Chicago teachers. This benefit applies if you have suffered an injury due to assault or battery. For example, you might have been injured while trying to break up a fight between two children. In more serious cases, teachers have been injured by stray bullets after firearms incidents.

Whatever the case may be, this is an important benefit that you should take full advantage of. The CTU states that if you have suffered an injury due to assault or battery, you are entitled to 100% of your normal salary and compensation while you recover. Note that the normal rate of compensation for missed wages is 66%.

It makes sense to file a claim for assault leave, even if you’re not sure whether your injury qualifies. Speak with a lawyer to learn more about your options after an assault or battery at your school.

Can an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Teachers? 

As a teacher in Illinois, you are perfectly justified in pursuing a workers’ compensation claim after an injury. You perform one of the most important roles in our society: Education. A workers’ compensation claim can provide the financial support you need to cover lost wages, medical bills, and other damages. A Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer can help. To learn more, contact Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources: 

ctulocal1.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/WorkComp-Book.pdf

iwcc.illinois.gov/