If you’ve suffered an injury while working at a construction site in Berwyn, Illinois, you need the expertise of a seasoned construction accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. The Blumenshine Law Group, with its dedicated legal professionals, has served clients in Berwyn and Cook County for years. We recognize the intricate nature of construction accident cases and are committed to championing your rights and assisting you in your pursuit of justice.
Understanding Construction Accidents in Berwyn, IL
Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and accidents can happen due to various factors. In Illinois, personal injury law comes into play when a third party’s negligence or failure to adhere to safety regulations results in injury. This may involve contractors, equipment manufacturers, or coworkers whose actions contributed to the accident. As a construction worker, you have the legal right to seek compensation for your injuries, lost income, and related expenses.
Common Types of Accidents
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies four primary causes of fatalities in the construction industry, often referred to as the “Fatal Four”:
Falls:
Falls from heights are the leading cause of death in construction. They can occur due to unprotected sides, wall openings, floor holes, improper scaffolding, and the misuse of portable ladders.
Struck by Object:
Construction workers can suffer injuries when struck by objects on the site, such as falling tools or moving machinery.
Electrocutions:
Contact with power lines or faulty electrical connections can lead to severe or fatal injuries among workers.
Caught-in/Between:
These accidents happen when a worker is caught, compressed by equipment or objects, or struck and crushed in collapsing structures, equipment, or materials.
Types of Injuries Resulting from Worksite Accidents
Serious injuries are common in construction injuries and may include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Often caused by falls or being struck by an object.
- Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI): Typically results from falls from heights or accidents involving heavy machinery.
- Fractured or Broken Bones: These are frequent in Berwyn construction accidents due to heavy equipment use and the potential for falls.
- Cuts and Lacerations: Personal injuries are often caused by sharp objects or machinery on the job site.
In Illinois, who can be held responsible for a construction accident?
Several parties may be found liable in the event of an accident in Illinois:
- General Contractors and Subcontractors: They bear primary responsibility for ensuring site safety.
- Owners: Property owners who control the work being performed may be held liable if they fail to ensure a safe environment.
- Manufacturers: Companies producing faulty or unsafe equipment or materials used on the construction site can be defendants in personal injury lawsuits.
What to Do After a Serious Injury on a Construction Site
If you’ve suffered a significant injury on a construction site in Berwyn, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority, so ensure you receive immediate medical care, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Report the Incident: Inform your supervisor or employer about the accident as soon as possible, providing a detailed account of what occurred.
- Document the Accident: Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any equipment or conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Gather Witness Information: Obtain the names and contact details, as their accounts may support your claim.
- Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: Seek legal guidance from an experienced lawyer with expertise in construction accidents.
Why You Need a Lawyer for a Construction Injury Claim
Dealing with personal injury cases, especially those arising from construction accidents, can be intricate and demanding. Having a knowledgeable and experienced personal injury law firm on your side is essential, like the Blumenshine Law Group. Our legal team understands the nuances of construction accident cases and can advocate for your rights effectively. We will navigate the legal system, gather crucial evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Third-Party Lawsuits vs. Workers’ Comp
Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses, lost wages, and benefits for on-the-job injuries without requiring proof of fault or negligence. However, recovery amounts are typically predetermined and may be lower than what a lawsuit could yield.
A third-party lawsuit is a civil action against any party that may have contributed to the accident, such as property owners, contractors, or equipment manufacturers. To succeed, it must be proven that the responsible party is liable due to negligence. Claims for personal injury can result in higher compensation than workers’ comp, covering medical expenses, lost wages, disability, and damages.
Determining the Value of Your Case
The value of your personal injury lawsuit depends on various factors, including:
- Severity of Injuries
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Quality of Evidence
- Degree of Fault
- Defendant’s Conduct
Statute of Limitations in Illinois
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims generally allows two years from the accident date to initiate legal proceedings. Failing to do so within this timeframe could result in losing your right to compensation.
Construction Injuries Settlements and Verdicts in Illinois
- Construction workers injured on the job received a recovery of $7.5 million.
- Family of an individual fatally hit by a garbage truck was awarded $3 million.
- Salesperson involved in a car accident obtained a settlement of $2.2 million.
- A person who was hit by a speeding vehicle while waiting for the CTA bus received compensation of $2 million.
- Computer programmer who suffered injuries from a slip and fall incident received $1.4 million.
- Veteran who experienced severe leg and arm injuries in a motorcycle accident was compensated with $1.25 million.
Contact Blumenshine Law Group Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in Berwyn, IL, please contact the Blumenshine Law Group for a free consultation at (312)766-1000 or [email protected]. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to guiding you through this challenging time and obtaining the compensation you are entitled to receive. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will only owe us something once we secure a favorable settlement for you.