After a crush injury, the difference between a strong claim and a weak one is often what happens before the paperwork starts piling up.
1) Get medical care and ask for documentation Follow-up visits matter. Illinois carriers often scrutinize whether symptoms were reported consistently. Make sure your provider documents:
- the mechanism of injury (how you were pinned/compressed)
- restrictions (what you can’t do)
- prognosis and recommended treatment
2) Report the incident through your employer’s process—carefully If this happened at work, you’ll likely see internal reporting requirements. Stick to facts, and avoid speculation about fault.
3) Preserve evidence before it disappears In industrial settings, cameras get overwritten, equipment is repaired, and maintenance logs can be updated. If you’re able, collect:
- photos of the area/equipment
- incident report numbers
- names of supervisors/witnesses
- any written instructions you were given about the job
4) Don’t let “early” statements shrink your case Adjusters and supervisors may ask questions quickly. Once you’re on record, it can be difficult to correct later—especially if your medical picture changes.


