Construction sites are hazardous places, and workers are constantly at risk of suffering injuries. Power tools, large machinery, and slippery conditions are just some of the many risks involved in construction work.
Victims of construction injuries have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable. In Illinois, construction companies are legally required to comply with federal labor regulations and provide a safe workplace.
Hale & Monico represent victims of construction site negligence. Our team of capable personal injury lawyers is dedicated to holding parties accountable and recovering damages on behalf of victims throughout Illinois. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can help.
Workplace Injury Statistics
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2019, the construction industry had approximately 255,000 cases of reported injuries by construction workers.
Some of the most common injuries in the construction industry include the following:
- Sprains
- Strains
- Tears
- Electrocutions
- Contusions
Sadly, the construction trades also have higher rates of fatal injuries than the national average for other industries. In 2019, there were 1,061 fatal construction injuries, accounting for 20% of workplace deaths in the country.
Illinois Construction Site Safety Laws
In Illinois, construction site safety laws are governed by the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Act, which is enforced by the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL).
The act requires employers to provide a safe and healthy work environment for employees and to comply with safety standards set forth by the IDOL. Employers are responsible for ensuring that construction sites are free from hazards that can cause falls, electrocution, and exposure to harmful substances.
Why Construction Accidents Occur
Construction sites are busy places where heavy-duty equipment abounds. Some of the most dangerous equipment on a job site include:
- Bulldozers
- Backhoes
- Forklifts
- Jackhammers
- Demolition systems
- Scaffolding
As such, there are plenty of opportunities for something to go wrong. The risk of injury increases when equipment malfunctions or is mishandled.
Additionally, working from heights is risky. Even a fall from a relatively small height can have devastating effects. And while hard hats, harnesses, and other safety equipment can help mitigate the severity of an injury, these aren’t foolproof measures.
Sadly, some of the most severe injuries occur whenever sections of a building collapse. In some cases, poor framing and lack of oversight can cause floors and walls to cave in. When this happens, workers may fall from great heights.
Other common examples of construction site injuries include:
- Slips and falls
- Falling objects
- Chemical burns
- Inhalation of fumes
Although most workers are familiar with the risks involved in this line of work, when another party is negligent, workers can be injured through no fault of their own.
Legal Remedies for Construction Accidents
In Illinois, employees who are injured on the job are usually entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help cover high costs, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Disability payments
To receive workers’ compensation benefits, you must file a claim with your employer and insurance carrier. Once the claim is approved, you’ll begin to receive benefits to cover the expenses you have accrued from your construction site injuries.
In addition to workers’ compensation claims, construction workers in Illinois have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against third parties. Generally, negligence claims are only valid against someone other than an employer, such as a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer.
Whenever an employer provides workers’ compensation coverage, this usually absolves them from any lawsuits associated with work-related injuries.
Due to nuances in the law, construction site injury claims can be complex. As such, it’s essential to consult with a dedicated personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the process.
Compensation for Construction Accident Injuries
Illinois workers’ compensation is a no-fault system. This means that injured workers do not have the burden of proving that their employer was at fault for their injuries. Instead, workers must only prove that the injury occurred while on the job.
However, filing a lawsuit against a third party is more challenging. As with other lawsuits involving negligence, you’ll need to collect evidence to build a strong case in your favor.
Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may look to gather the following:
- Witness statements from coworkers
- Photo and videos from the job site
- Expert testimony
- Health and safety documentation
- Maintenance records for heavy equipment
The right combination of evidence and litigation can help you prevail in court and hold the negligent third party accountable. Sometimes, you and your lawyer may choose to settle with the opposing party.
Construction Site Accident Lawyers in Chicago
Construction workers are constantly exposed to hazards that can lead to injury and death. You could file for workers’ compensation if a job site collapse injured you. Depending on the circumstances, a personal injury lawsuit may also be valid.
Hale & Monico represents victims in personal injury claims throughout Chicago. Call us today for a free consultation.