Oak Forest Construction Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured at work on a construction site, the attorneys at the personal injury law firm, The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers. We have decades of experience representing clients injured due to negligence, unsafe work practices, or equipment failure.

Well-versed in personal injury law, our skilled team navigates complex legal issues, negotiates with insurance companies, and advocates for maximum compensation for our clients.

Common Types of Construction Accidents in Oak Forest

According to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the most common types of personal injury accidents that occur on construction sites include falls from heights, object strikes, electrocutions, and caught-in/between incidents. These are known as the “Fatal Four” in the construction industry due to their high fatality rates.

Other common accidents involve scaffolding collapses, trench cave-ins, and incidents with heavy machinery. Injuries from these accidents can range from minor to severe, and in the worst cases, can be fatal.

Who May Be Held Liable for a Construction Accident?

Determining liability in construction accidents can be complex, as multiple parties may bear responsibility. The potentially liable parties include:

1. General Contractors: They are responsible for ensuring the safety of the construction site, including the provision of proper safety equipment and training for construction workers.
2. Subcontractors: These entities can be held liable if their negligence or failure to follow safety protocols resulted in an accident.
3. Property Owners: If the accident occurred due to unsafe conditions on the property that the owner was aware of, they might be held responsible.
4. Construction Equipment Manufacturers: In cases where faulty equipment caused the accident, the manufacturer may bear liability.
5. Architects and Engineers: If a design flaw or oversight in project planning led to the accident, these professionals may be held accountable.

Common Types of Injuries from Worksite Accidents

Construction accidents can lead to various personal injuries and types of injuries, each with its unique consequences and recovery timelines:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Serious head injuries potentially causing cognitive and sensory impairments.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs): Can lead to paralysis, affecting mobility and independence.
3. Fractures: Commonly affecting limbs; recovery involves extensive rest and, potentially, surgery.
4. Burns: Can be caused by electrical or chemical exposure, requiring extensive treatment.
5. Amputations: Severe accidents can necessitate limb removal, altering life significantly.
6. Crush Injuries: Occur when caught between heavy objects, leading to internal damage.
7. Eye Injuries: From flying debris or chemical splashes, potentially causing vision loss.
8. Hearing Loss: Prolonged exposure to loud noise can lead to auditory damage.

What to Do After a Serious Injury on a Construction Site in Oak Forest

If you’ve been seriously injured at a construction site in Oak Forest, here are some steps you should take:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if the injury seems minor, it’s important to get checked out, as some injuries may not appear serious immediately. Strictly adhere to your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.

Report the Accident: Inform your supervisor or the person in charge about the accident as soon as possible.

Document the Incident: If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions or equipment. This evidence could be crucial in personal injury cases.

Collect Witnesses Information: If anyone saw the accident, collect their names and contact details.

Retain All Medical Records: These documents can serve as proof of the injuries sustained and the treatment administered.

Contact a Construction Accident Lawyer: A personal injury lawyer knowledgeable about construction accidents provides legal representation and can guide you through the complexities of filing a claim.

Notify Your Employer in Writing: Submit a detailed, written report of the accident to your employer, keeping a copy for your records.

Do Not Discuss the Accident: Avoid discussing the accident with anyone, especially representatives from insurance companies, without your lawyer present.

Do Not Post on Social Media: Refrain from posting anything related to the accident on social media, as it could be used against you.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Construction Injury Claim?

Yes. A personal injury lawyer experienced in construction accidents can provide indispensable assistance to an injured worker by guiding them through the entire legal process.

They can help in gathering necessary evidence, building a robust case, and negotiating with insurance companies for fair compensation.

Experienced personal injury lawyers understand the complexities of laws surrounding construction accidents and can identify all possible parties liable for the accident.

They can ensure that all legal procedures for workers compensation claim are correctly followed, deadlines for filing claims are met, and the rights of the injured worker are protected.

A personal injury law firm with construction accident experience can lighten the legal burden from injured clients, allowing them to focus on their recovery.

What is the Difference Between a Third-Party Lawsuit and Workers’ Comp?

According to the US Department of Labor, Workers’ compensation and third-party lawsuits serve different purposes in addressing construction accidents.

Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries, regardless of who was at fault. It typically covers medical bills, a portion of lost wages, and disability benefits.

On the other hand, a third-party lawsuit can be filed against someone else’s negligence other than the employer (a third party) if their negligence contributed to the accident. This personal injury lawsuit can provide compensation for pain, suffering, full lost wages, and other damages not covered by workers’ compensation.

Types of Compensation for a Construction Accident Victim

Depending on the circumstances surrounding the accident, construction injury victims may be entitled to various types of compensation. These can include medical expenses covering current and future treatments, wage loss for the time off work during recovery, and compensation for any permanent disability or disfigurement caused by the accident. Damages for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life may also be included.

In the event of a wrongful death in a construction accident, the family of accident victims may seek compensation for their emotional distress, loss of companionship, and funeral expenses. It’s important to consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand the full extent of compensation you may be eligible for.

What Is My Case Worth?

The worth of a personal injury case is determined by a multitude of factors. These include the severity of the injury, the amount of medical bills emassed, the cost of medical treatments now and in the future, the impact of the injury on your ability to work and earn income, and the emotional distress caused by the injury.

The degree of negligence or liability of the other party involved also plays a crucial role. If your personal injury claim goes to court, the perspective of the judge or jury can influence the award amount as well. A skilled personal injury attorney can assist in evaluating these factors to estimate the potential value of your case.

How Much Time Do I Have to File My Case?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident.

Contact an Oak Forest, IL Construction Accident Lawyer Today

Don’t let the financial implications of a construction accident overwhelm you. Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation and case evaluation. Each personal injury lawyer in our law offices works on a contingency basis, which means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Take the first step towards justice now. Contact us for a free consultation with one of our construction accident lawyers.