Is Workers’ Comp Really Enough in Chicago?

Most workers are aware that there’s a system designed to protect them financially if they ever become injured on the job. However, few ever really do the math and figure out whether this compensation is truly enough. What happens if you suffer a permanent disability that ends your career? What if you incur ongoing medical expenses for the rest of your life? For some, these questions are just distant fears. For others, they are the new reality after a workplace injury in Chicago. Will workers’ comp cover it?

Where Workers’ Comp Often Falls Short 

Workers’ comp provides only a portion of your lost wages, and this is where the system starts to fall short. As many employees know, workers’ comp covers two-thirds (66.67%) of your average weekly wages (AWW).

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Law went into force in 1911. Putting aside the Great Depression that soon followed, this was a time when almost all families had only one primary wage-earner. In addition, rates of inflation were much lower in past decades.

In fact, you only need to compare the modern era with the pre-COVID era to get a sense of how badly inflation has spiraled out of control. Consider the fact that CNBC reported that in 2019, “only” 32% of the US workforce was living paycheck-to-paycheck. According to some reports, this figure has more than doubled in 2025 to over 68%.

The end result is simple: The workers’ compensation system simply isn’t cutting it for injured workers today. For those who are depending on literally every cent of their earnings, a loss of one-third spells financial doom.

What If My Workers’ Comp Settlement Isn’t Enough? 

If you’re worried that your workers’ comp settlement won’t cover your necessities, consider negotiating for a higher settlement. You might be eligible to receive more than you realize, and a lawyer can help you fight for what you deserve.

You might also consider the possibility of a personal injury lawsuit instead of (or in addition to) a workers’ comp claim. Sometimes, workplace accidents can lead to personal injury claims instead. This can theoretically be more rewarding financially, since a personal injury settlement can cover 100% of your wages. In addition, a direct lawsuit against a negligent party provides additional compensation for emotional distress, PTSD, and other “non-economic damages.” The same cannot be said for workers’ comp claims.

If a direct lawsuit is possible, your lawyer can help you explore this opportunity. If all else fails, you can always attempt crowdfunding through a website like GoFundMe.

Discuss this Subject With a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago 

If you’re worried that your workers’ compensation settlement won’t be enough to cover your financial necessities, why not have a conversation with a lawyer? These legal professionals may be able to offer various forms of advice as you strive for financial security after a workplace accident. Consider contacting the Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers at Connolly Injury Law today for more answers.

Sources:

 cnbc.com/2024/10/30/many-americans-are-still-living-paycheck-to-paycheck-report-finds.html

pymnts.com/personal-finance/2025/financial-anxiety-spurs-demand-for-consumer-budgeting-apps/