Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Advocates for Employee Awareness on Commuting-Related Workers’ Compensation Rights

Chicago, Illinois – The Chicago-based workers’ compensation law firm of Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is taking a stand to educate Illinois workers about the intricacies of the state’s “Going and Coming” rule, which currently excludes coverage for injuries sustained during routine commutes.

Managing Member Paul Greenberg of Briskman Briskman & Greenberg expressed concern that many employees are unaware that typical workers’ compensation protections do not apply during their travel to and from work.

“The ‘Going and Coming’ rule is a longstanding principle within workers’ compensation law,” Greenberg explained. “However, it’s crucial for employees to recognize that this rule has exceptions and there are nuances to the law if you’re in a car accident at work as part of your job. Outside of an employer’s workers’ compensation benefits, an injury victim may still have rights to compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance coverage if they’re injured while commuting. Our mission is to shed light on these nuances and safeguard the workforce against overlooked entitlements.”

In Illinois, the “Going and Coming” rule generally denies workers’ compensation for injuries incurred during the commute to and from a fixed place of employment. The rationale behind this exclusion is that the risks taken during such commutes are not directly tied to employment duties. Yet, the rule is not without its exceptions. For example, when an employee’s travel is mandated by the employer or involves employment-related tasks, the journey may fall within the realm of compensable work activities.

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg highlights the importance of understanding these subtleties, stressing that knowledge is a worker’s first line of defense. Whether an employee’s role includes off-site assignments, company-provided transportation, or travel between multiple job sites, the firm emphasizes the potential for exceptions to the “Going and Coming” rule.

“The law often evolves in response to changing work environments,” Greenberg added. “With the rise of remote and flexible work arrangements, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about the parameters of workers’ compensation.”

As part of their commitment to workers’ rights, Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is actively engaging with the community through informational campaigns and advocating for policy reforms that reflect modern work-life realities. The firm encourages employees to seek legal counsel when injured en route to ensure that their rights are fully protected and to navigate the complexities of workers’ compensation law effectively.

Briskman Briskman & Greenberg’s lawyers are always available to provide a free consultation.