What Workers’ Comp Covers for Illinois Roofers
Roofing is one of the most dangerous jobs in the Illinois construction industry. The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act provides no-fault benefits to ensure that if you are hurt on the job, your focus remains on healing, not hospital bills.
Specific coverages include:
- Medical Benefits: 100% coverage for all reasonable and necessary medical care, including emergency room visits, surgeries, and physical therapy.
- Temporary Total Disability (TTD): If you cannot work for more than three days, you are entitled to 66â…”% of your average weekly wage.
- Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Compensation for permanent limitations or “loss of use” of a body part, such as a back or ankle injury.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If your injuries prevent you from returning to roofing, the law may cover training for a new career.
The First 45 Minutes: Critical Steps After a Fall
What you do immediately after an accident determines the success of your claim. Insurance companies look for any reason to dispute a roofer’s injury.
- Seek Medical Attention: Go to the ER or a doctor immediately and explicitly state the injury happened while roofing.
- Report to a Supervisor: You must notify your employer within 45 days, but doing so within the first hour is best.
- Document the Scene: If possible, have a coworker take photos of the roof conditions, lack of fall protection, or faulty scaffolding.
- Identify Witnesses: Get the contact information of anyone who saw the fall or the unsafe conditions.
“Independent Contractor” or Employee? Your Real Rights
Many roofing companies in Chicago try to avoid paying benefits by labeling workers as “independent contractors” or giving them a 1099. Under the Illinois Employee Classification Act, construction workers are presumed to be employees unless the employer can prove otherwise.
You are likely an employee (and entitled to benefits) if:
- The company provides your tools and safety equipment.
- The foreman dictates your schedule and specific work methods.
- You are paid hourly or weekly rather than a flat fee for the entire project.
- The company has the right to fire you or change your assignment at any time.
Jack Epstein, with 30 years of experience in the Illinois legal market, has successfully challenged these “contractor” labels to get roofers the compensation they deserve.
Meta Title: Roofing Accident Lawyer Chicago | Workers’ Comp for Falls in Illinois
Meta Description: Injured in a roofing fall? Learn about Illinois workers’ comp benefits for roofers, including medical coverage and lost wages. Don’t let a “1099” status stop your claim. Get 30 years of expert legal representation with Jack Epstein.
