A guide to the types of injuries covered by workers’ compensation
Workers' Compensation - January 13, 2026 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates
If you have been injured as a result of your job, there are certain types of injuries covered by workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to help you cover the cost of your medical care and expenses so you can heal and return to work as quickly as possible. An Aurora workers’ compensation lawyer from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates can help you determine your eligibility and what you may be able to claim for your injuries. This guide explains the types of injuries covered by workers’ compensation in Illinois and how to pursue a claim.
Understanding Illinois’ workers’ compensation system
Most employers in Illinois are required to provide employees with workers’ compensation benefits, whether through a program or self-funded. The purpose is to mitigate employer liability while providing for employees via a no-fault system, while ensuring that employees injured on the job receive the support and services they need. Employees qualify for workers’ compensation benefits when they start a job.
Common injuries covered by workers’ compensation
According to the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Guide, there is a wide range of injuries that span a few key categories. The injuries must be caused as a result of an employee’s job duties in order to be covered. Below are some conditions that are eligible for workers’ comp.
Traumatic injuries
Traumatic injuries often come in the form of slip and fall accidents, falling objects, crushing injuries, and injuries from being struck by or against injuries. These injuries can result in blunt force or penetrating wounds that can cause broken bones, brain injuries, internal bleeding, and more. These injuries may even be catastrophic and result in long-term, permanent conditions.
Repetitive injuries
Repetitive motion injuries can occur across multiple industries and cover a wide range of injuries within this category. When a worker does the same task over and over each day, they can develop conditions as a result of the area being overworked. Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis are common examples of repetitive strain injuries, and they are most common in the main joints, such as elbows, knees, shoulders, or wrists. However, injuries to the back are not uncommon.
Occupational illnesses and diseases
Workers can be exposed to toxic chemicals and substances depending on their line of work. This can wreak havoc on a worker’s health and create serious health conditions that can affect their quality of life and ability to work. Exposure to pathogens or loud noises can also contribute to injuries within this category.
Mental health conditions
Mental health conditions may also be covered by workers’ compensation if job-related stress or traumatic experiences triggered them. Types of mental health conditions covered by workers’ comp include PTSD, workplace stress, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, and bullying or harassment. These injuries require extra work to demonstrate and recover.
How to report workers’ compensation injuries in Illinois
As an injured worker, you must follow reporting protocols and notify your employer in writing within 45 days of your accident to get your injuries covered. Injuries must be reported to HR, a direct supervisor, or someone in authority. You will also need to fill out the First Report of Injury or Illness form.
You should also keep all records of your medical treatment, tests, and other expenses. In addition to your medical documents, begin gathering evidence to support your claim that your job inflicted injuries upon you. The more evidence you can gather, the easier it will be to resolve your case and get compensation for your medical care.
Once your injury has been properly reported, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC) will review your case and issue a decision. By hiring a lawyer, you can have someone on your side who can simplify the process, advocate and negotiate on your behalf, and respond if your claim is unfairly denied. Legal representation can significantly improve the ease and outcome of your case.
What you can recover through an Illinois workers’ compensation claim
The benefits of workers’ compensation claims primarily focus on your medical expenses to help you get back to work faster. They may also compensate you for any wages lost due to an inability to work while you recover from your injuries. Vocational rehabilitation may be covered if your injuries affected your ability to return to work or do the same type of work. Finally, workers’ compensation in Illinois may also pay out death benefits to surviving family members if the employee died from workplace injuries.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates helps you secure workers’ compensation benefits
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates is committed to helping secure the workers’ compensation benefits you are entitled to after your accident. Our workers’ compensation attorneys have a deep knowledge of workers’ compensation law, so we can effectively fight for you when you need us the most. We protect your rights and streamline the process so you can recover compensation faster. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation online or call us at (800) 985-1819.
