Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer
Construction workers are constantly at risk of injury and illness. Construction sites are full of heavy machinery, hazardous chemicals, slippery surfaces, and abundant opportunities for physical harm. Contact us right away if you have been injured on a construction site and let MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys help you begin building your case.
In the bustling city of Chicago, construction is an ever-present activity, with new buildings and infrastructures continuously altering the skyline. Yet, this expansion comes with significant safety challenges. Construction sites in Chicago are subject to strict safety regulations, but accidents can still happen due to oversight, faulty equipment, or uncontrolled conditions. Our legal team understands the complexities of local and federal regulations that apply to construction site safety and can navigate these to support your claim.
Learn more about construction accident statistics. It is critical to be aware of the prevalent causes of construction accidents, which include falls from heights, struck-by incidents, and trench collapses. Understanding these statistics can empower workers to be more cautious and aware of their rights.
Common Injuries in Chicago Construction Accidents
Construction sites are fraught with potential hazards, leading to a variety of injuries that can range from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include fractures, burns, electrocutions, and traumatic brain injuries. These injuries often result from falls, being struck by falling objects, or machinery malfunctions. In Chicago, where construction is a staple part of urban development, the frequency of such injuries calls for preventive measures and legal recourse.
Understanding the common injuries associated with construction accidents can help workers and employers implement better safety standards. Proper training, use of safety gear, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial in minimizing risks. However, when accidents occur due to negligence or inadequate protection, injured workers in Chicago often seek the guidance of legal professionals to explore their options for compensation and recovery.
Understanding Chicago Construction Laws
Chicago construction laws are designed to ensure the safety of workers and the public. The city follows the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards for construction sites, which include rules about fall protection, safe use of equipment, and hazard communication. Additionally, Chicago has specific regulations addressing building permits and site inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
For construction workers, understanding these laws can offer insight into their rights and obligations. When these regulations are violated, it can result in severe penalties for employers and potential legal action from injured workers. Seeking legal expertise in navigating these complex laws ensures that workers can effectively address grievances and pursue rightful compensation for injuries incurred on the job.
FAQs About Construction Accident Claims in Chicago
What Should I Do Immediately After a Construction Accident?
After a construction accident, your priority should be to seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Accurate medical documentation is essential for any future legal claims. Next, report the accident to your supervisor and make sure it's recorded officially with your employer. Gather any evidence from the scene if possible, including photos, witness contact information, and any hazardous conditions that contributed to the accident. Contact a construction accident lawyer in Chicago to discuss your legal options and to ensure your rights are protected.
How Can a Construction Accident Lawyer Help Me?
A construction accident attorney can provide invaluable assistance by evaluating your claim's merits, navigating the legal process, and ensuring that all relevant laws and regulations are considered. They can negotiate with insurance companies and employers, aiming for a fair and comprehensive settlement that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs. An experienced lawyer also ensures that deadlines are met and that the correct procedures are followed to optimize the chances for a successful outcome.
Am I Eligible for Workers' Compensation?
In Illinois, most construction workers are eligible for workers' compensation, a no-fault system designed to provide financial and medical benefits regardless of who is at fault for the accident. Workers' compensation typically covers medical expenses, a portion of lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. To file for workers' compensation, you need to report the accident within a specified timeframe and submit required documentation. Consulting a construction accident lawyer in Chicago can ensure your claim is accurately and promptly filed, preventing potential disputes with your employer or insurance provider.
What If My Employer Denies My Workers' Compensation Claim?
If your workers' compensation claim is denied, this doesn't necessarily mean the end of your pursuit for benefits. You have the right to appeal the decision through the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission. An appeal must be filed within a specific period after receiving a notice of denial. Consulting a construction accident attorney in Chicago can help you understand the reasons for denial and strengthen your claim during an appeal. Legal guidance can significantly enhance your chances of receiving deserved compensation.
Can I Sue My Employer for a Construction Accident?
Suing your employer directly is generally not an option under workers' compensation laws, which shield employers from direct lawsuits while providing benefits to workers. However, if a third party is responsible for the accident, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner, you may pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them. Consult a construction accident lawyer in Chicago to determine potential avenues for legal action beyond workers' compensation. They will investigate all aspects of your claim to identify liable parties and pursue additional compensation avenues on your behalf.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
Call Our Chicago personal injury lawyers at (872) 401-8863 or contact us online to schedule your complimentary consultation with a construction accident attorney in Chicago.
Types of Cases We Handle
Because of our deep experience, our Chicago personal injury firm has the ability to take on all types of personal injury cases, including claims and lawsuits stemming from:
If you or a loved one has been injured in one of these accidents, you could be entitled to compensation. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers can help you seek financial restitution for property damage, medical bills, continued treatment and medication, and pain and suffering.
trust MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys
don't stress. let us handle your case so you can focus on recovering.
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Proving Liability for Construction Accidents
Construction companies are required to adhere to a wide variety of security codes, regulations, and safety practices in order to prevent employees from being hurt on the job. On rare occasion, accidents may be unavoidable. However, the majority of workplace construction accidents occur due to the negligence or failure of those responsible for creating a safe work environment. In such cases, we are committed to taking up your case and helping you hold the responsible parties accountable for your injuries and the suffering you have experienced.
We will help you move forward by first evaluating the circumstances of your injury. One key factor that must be present in order for your case to be viable is evidence that your injury occurred due to someone else’s failure to perform a specific duty, whether it be a co-worker, supervisor, or employer. This can include failing to demarcate slippery walkways, properly train employees to use certain heavy machines, secure live wires, or otherwise mitigate danger to employees.
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Common Construction Accidents
If you are a construction worker in the Chicago area, get in touch with one of our experienced Chicago personal injury attorneys right away if you have been harmed due to any of the following:
- Falling objects
- Exposure to toxic chemicals and materials
- Slips and falls
- Falls from elevated platforms or floors
- Defective machinery
- Electrocution
- Collisions between construction vehicles and machines
- Burns due to machinery, chemicals, electric shock, etc.
Any of the above have the potential to do severe bodily damage to workers. Many construction workers involved in on-site accidents have experienced permanent brain damage, amputation, severe burning and scarring, paralysis, and other life-changing physical injuries. If you have experienced a serious injury while on a construction site, you may incur the following expenses:
- Hospital bills
- Therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Job-related retraining and/or occupational therapy
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages due to time spent in recovery
You may be able to sue your employer or other parties responsible for your injuries if it can be demonstrated that they are, indeed, at fault for the damages and related expenses. If you have experienced an exceptionally devastating injury, spent a large amount of time off work during recovery, developed psychological trauma, or otherwise suffered serious, non-monetary costs, you may be able to sue for punitive damages, such as pain and suffering.
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Workers’ Compensation vs. Personal Injury
When you are injured on the job, your employer may press you to take advantage of workers’ compensation benefits. However, be advised that despite its quick availability, workers’ compensation may not be enough to make up for the total costs of your injury, especially if it is a serious one. If your injury costs you more than several hundred dollars, keeps you off the clock for more than a few days, disables you in any way, or takes away important wages you need for retirement, savings, caring for dependents, etc., you will likely need to take legal action. Once you access workers’ compensation funds, you may no longer be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit, even if compensation runs out and you still have large injury-related expenses to pay. This is why it is critical to contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after your injury.
Schedule your complimentary consultation with us by filling out our online form, and let the experienced professionals at MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys fight for you.
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"Attorney Raphael & Attorney Mathias are both very forthcoming & handle each case with care!"I have worked with this office on many different life care plans for personal injury cases and each time it’s been wonderful. Attorney Raphael and Attorney Mathias are both very forthcoming and handle each case with care. I would definitely recommend them!- Brandy C.
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"Damon took my case when others would not consider it."
Damon is the one attorney who took my case when others would not consider it. He is good at explaining the next steps and possible outcomes. Professionalism shows through in all he does. I recommend him for your legal matter.
- Carolyn -
"Mr. Mathias went above and beyond for me!"
Mr. Mathias went above and beyond when I got in an automobile accident making the situation stress free. He allowed me to concentrate on getting a new vehicle and getting the appropriate treatment instead of worrying about medical bills and settlements.
- James -
"Truly amazing attorney!"
Truly amazing Attorney! This guy went above and beyond my expectations, from a broken wired up jaw. To a well deserved settlement. Thanks again!
- S. Plowden -
"Better outcome than imagined."
MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys handled our case well and gave us a better outcome than we could have ever imagined. Thanks to Damon, Ori and their entire team!
- Eric B. -
"Attorney Ori Raphael fights for you!"Ori gives it his all to fight for you!- Amir A
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"Hire these guys!"These guys are great! Ori really went above and beyond and every time I needed good advice or help, he was there for me.- R.J.
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"Mr. Raphael was very helpful and responsive to our needs!"Mr. Raphael was very helpful and responsive to our needs. He provided excellent service with polite,gentle and sensitive care,from the time he greeted us all through the process. I felt very confident trusting him with our case and he came through for us and got us more than we imagined.- Avi P.