Navigating the Complexities of Securing Workers Compensation benefits for Treatment-Related Injuries

Our client, a 60-year-old truck driver, sustained injuries to both shoulders following a severe rollover accident. Initially, the employer accepted responsibility for the left shoulder injury but denied causation and benefits related to the right shoulder, even after our client later required surgery.

At trial before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission on April 29, 2025, we successfully proved that both the left and right shoulder injuries were causally related to the work accident. The left shoulder injury was sustained during the initial crash, while the right shoulder condition was aggravated during medically prescribed work conditioning program following surgery on the left.

Despite the Respondent’s objections, the Arbitrator found that the right shoulder injury was a natural and compensable consequence of the original accident. The Arbitrator rejected the Respondent’s medical defense and accepted the persuasive testimony of the treating orthopedic surgeon.

RESULT: Total victory for the injured worker, securing workers compensation benefits after years of litigation.

Our firm fought hard to ensure our client was fully compensated for both injuries, including those that arose from the medical treatment itself, a critical protection afforded by Illinois Workers’ Compensation law.

The outcome reinforces the principle that when medical treatment for a work injury leads to further injury, the law protects the worker.

If you or someone you love has been injured at work, contact our office to discuss your rights.