Exposure to Carcinogens

Job Injury Lawyers Providing Representation to Workers in the Chicago Area

On a daily basis, workers throughout Chicago and nearby cities are exposed to hazardous chemicals at work. Asbestos, lead-based paint, and carcinogens are examples of these harmful chemicals. In some cases, exposure arises from physical touch or inhalation. At other times, these chemicals may be intentionally released. The effects of exposure to carcinogens can lead to serious injuries such as organ toxicity, cancer, and even death. At Katz, Friedman, Eisenstein, Johnson, Bareck and Bertuca, our Chicago job injury lawyers help file claims for workers’ compensation benefits on behalf of workers suffering the ill effects of exposure to carcinogens. Our dedicated attorneys are ready to provide vigorous representation for workers as well as their families throughout Illinois.

Recover Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Exposure to Carcinogens in the Workplace

Employee exposure to carcinogens that leads to injuries or diseases may entitle workers to receive workers’ compensation benefits. Since Illinois law does not require a showing of fault in order to recover disability payments, lost wages from work, and medical costs, it is not necessary to show that the employer failed to abide by safety rules. In fact, employees who fail to strictly follow workplace rules will not be penalized or receive a reduction in benefits. For example, a worker with a faulty mask will not be denied workers’ compensation benefits by their employer due to the failure of the mask to protect against carcinogens. While employees in a variety of industries may face exposure to carcinogens, some workers are more at risk than others because they regularly come into contact with chemicals or additives. These include painters, leather workers, radiologists, health care industry workers, construction workers, and textile industry workers, among others.

Employers are required, by law, to limit employee exposure to carcinogens. Additionally, the workplace must be contained, such that hazardous chemicals are prevented from spreading. Examples of methods used to help abide by these policies include requiring employees to shower before leaving work, or laundering work clothes independently from other materials. Preventing exposure to workplace hazards at home is important, since the family may be placed in danger when substances are transferred home.

Regardless of the cause of exposure to carcinogens at the workplace, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act provides that lost income, medical costs, and other benefits may be paid to injured workers. Examples of the types of benefits that may be available include partial disability benefits, temporary and total disability benefits, and permanent and total disability benefits. Injured workers unable to return to the same job or capable of working fewer hours have options, according to workers’ compensation laws.

Exposure to carcinogens at work can lead to permanent disfigurement, such as scarring, as well as death. Employees may be able to secure lump sum payments for the acute effects of such exposure. In the case of a job-related death, surviving spouses and dependents may file for death benefits under workers’ compensation laws. These benefits are calculated based on the deceased worker’s average weekly wage. In addition to the decedent’s spouse, dependent children may be entitled to receive benefits.

Discuss the Details of Your Claim with a Knowledgeable Chicago Attorney

At Katz, Friedman, Eisenstein, Johnson, Bareck and Bertuca, we understand the devastating effects of a workplace injury involving exposure to carcinogens. Our goal is to provide efficient and compassionate legal representation to employees who have been hurt at work. In some cases, an initial claim for compensation may be denied. Our job injury attorneys are experienced in all stages of workers’ compensation claims and appeals. To learn more about your specific case, contact us online or by calling 312-724-5846. We provide a free appointment to consult with you about your situation. We represent employees seeking benefits who live in Chicago, Rockford, Springfield, Quincy, Champaign, and Aurora, as well as other areas of Cook, Champaign, Kane, Adams, and Winnebago Counties.