Best Consumer Protection Lawyers in Rockford, IL

No! In fact, if the investigator tricks you into giving a taped statement, the investigator may be guilty of a Class IV Felony. It is never advisable to give a taped statement to anyone, especially the insurance company investigator. If you recall, the person that controls the question, controls the answer. The investigator knows what the law is and can trick someone into giving an answer which gives the impression that the injury is not work related when in fact it is. Do not give taped statements.

No! In fact, never sign such a release that allows the insurance company to discuss matters with your doctor without you present. You would have no control over what information the insurance adjustor or an agent would be giving your doctor. Most insurance adjustors and agents are honest but there are many of them out there that will give misleading information to the doctor that you would be unaware of which could greatly alter your treatment plan. Therefore, never allow this type of conversation to take place behind your back. If they want to talk to the doctor, it needs to be in writing and a copy sent to you or your attorney.

If you work around chemicals and develop lung problems or rashes, it is very important to get the name of the chemical that you work around and, if available, get the MSD sheet. The MSD sheets should be available to you. If they are not, you can get them online from the name of the chemical. More likely than not, you will need an expert witness or an attorney to help tie this case up. It would certainly help if you have the MSD sheets.

Two weeks, sort of. The question often arises as to how soon weekly benefits must start after a person is injured. Technically speaking, the insurance company is supposed to pay within 2 weeks or state in writing the basis of their non-payment. Often they fail to do this unless someone is represented by an attorney.

Yes, possibly. When you are found disabled and you have earned enough work credits to be eligible for SSDI, you would begin receiving those benefits. If your monthly benefit is less than the allowed SSI benefit amount and you meet other income and asset eligibility requirements, it is possible to also receive SSI benefits. That is why it is important to apply for both SSI and SSDI benefits if you do not have many assets or additional income.