Protecting Your Rights After A Knee Injury
Work shouldn’t leave you on your knees. Slips, falls, heavy lifting – knee injuries can sideline you from the job you love. At Gesmer & Reynolds, P.C., our lawyers understand the challenges individuals face after sustaining a knee injury on the job. With 50 years of combined experience, our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to helping injured workers secure the compensation they deserve.
From construction sites to factory floors, we understand the specific demands placed on knees in various industries. Our attorneys possess extensive knowledge and experience in workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability law, particularly regarding complex knee injury cases. We fight fiercely to protect your rights and ensure you receive the necessary support and compensation to recover and move forward.
Your Relentless Advocate On The Road To Recovery
Knee injuries can linger long after the initial pain. We fight for comprehensive compensation for a variety of injuries, including:
- Torn ligaments (ACL, MCL, etc.)
- Meniscus tears
- Arthritis
- Loss of mobility
At Gesmer & Reynolds, P.C., our attorneys understand the severity of knee injuries. These injuries can take a significant toll on individuals and their families, not just physically but also emotionally and financially. We recognize this hardship and are dedicated to providing personalized attention and guidance throughout the entire legal process. Our goal is to empower you to navigate the challenges with confidence and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions About Occupational Knee Injuries In Illinois
Below, we address how workers’ compensation applies to work-related knee injuries and what employees can expect during the claims process.
What types of work-related knee injuries are covered by workers’ compensation in Illinois?
Illinois workers’ compensation covers a wide range of knee injuries that occur because of a person’s job duties. These include traumatic injuries such as meniscus tears, ligament sprains, fractures and dislocations, as well as conditions caused by overuse or repetitive strain. Coverage applies whether the injury results from a single incident or develops gradually through ongoing physical demands.
Can I receive workers’ comp benefits if my knee injury was caused by repetitive stress rather than a single accident?
Yes. Illinois recognizes repetitive stress injuries as compensable when they arise out of and in the course of employment. Jobs that require kneeling, climbing, lifting or frequent pivoting can place ongoing stress on the knee joint. When medical evidence shows that work activities contributed to the condition, you may qualify for medical benefits and wage replacement.
What should I do if a preexisting knee condition was made worse by my job duties?
A preexisting condition does not automatically prevent you from receiving benefits. You may still obtain benefits if your work activities aggravated, accelerated or combined with the condition to create a new or worsened injury. It is important to report the change in symptoms promptly, document how job duties affected the knee and obtain medical evaluations that clearly describe the work-related aggravation.
Will workers’ compensation pay for my knee replacement surgery and physical therapy?
Perhaps. Workers’ compensation may cover knee replacement surgery, arthroscopic procedures, injections and physical therapy when medically necessary and related to the work injury. The employer’s insurance carrier is responsible for paying for reasonable medical care aimed at improving function, reducing pain or stabilizing the condition. Employees may also be entitled to temporary disability benefits during recovery.
How is a permanent partial disability (PPD) settlement calculated for a knee injury?
PPD benefits for a knee injury are based on a percentage of loss of the use of the leg. Settlements are determined by medical findings, work restrictions and the impact on the employee’s ability to perform job functions. Illinois uses a statutory schedule that assigns a specific number of weeks to each body part, and the final award reflects the percentage of impairment multiplied by that schedule.
Reach Out For A Free Consultation
We offer free consultations to discuss your case in detail and explore your options for obtaining compensation. We serve clients through Rockford, Chicago and the surrounding areas, including southern Wisconsin. A workplace injury shouldn’t delay your recovery any longer. Schedule your free consultation today by calling us at 815-216-9471 or contacting us online. Let us fight for your rights and help you get the support you need to recover from your knee injury.