Sites of construction projects can be hazardous to workers, visitors and bystanders alike. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury on a construction site due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The personal injury attorneys at our firm The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers are well-acquainted with the challenges you’re facing. We are committed to representing and working tirelessly for the rights of accident victims throughout Illinois. Let us shoulder the burden of legal complexities while you focus on your recovery.
Common Types of Construction Accidents in Orland Park
Construction accidents can take many forms; according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, (OSHA) the most frequent types are:
- Falls from Heights: This includes accidents from ladders, roofs, scaffolding, or any elevated surface. These falls often result in serious injuries or fatalities.
- Electrocution Accidents: Construction sites are often filled with exposed wiring, power lines, and incomplete electrical systems. Accidental contact can lead to electrocution.
- Struck by Object: This type of accident occurs when a worker is hit by materials, tools, or equipment that falls from an elevated location.
- Caught-in or Between: Workers can be trapped in or between objects, equipment, or collapsing structures, leading to severe injuries.
- Overexertion and Heatstroke: Construction workers often work long hours in all weather conditions, which can lead to overexertion and heatstroke.
Who Could Be Held Liable for a Construction Site Accident in Orland Park, IL?
Construction site accidents in Orland Park, IL can have multiple liable parties, which can make the legal process even more complicated. Depending on the circumstances, some of the responsible parties could include:
- The property owner or contractor who hired subcontractors
- The workers employed at the site
- Equipment manufacturers that provided defective machinery or tools
- Employers who did not provide the necessary safety equipment
- Architects who failed to account for possible safety hazards
Common Types of Injuries from Worksite Accidents
Work injuries can range from minor to severe: here are some common types of injuries resulting from construction worker worksite accidents:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These injuries result from a violent blow or jolt to the head, often due to falling objects or falls. They can result in long-term cognitive issues.
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI): These injuries occur when there’s damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves. The result can be permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions.
Bone Fractures: A fracture is a broken bone. It may be the result of an accident, fall, or other sudden force against the bone.
Cuts and Lacerations: These injuries are often caused by sharp objects or machinery on a worksite and can vary from minor to severe.
Burns: Burn injuries can result from fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces or materials.
Loss of Hearing or Vision: Loud noise on construction sites can lead to hearing loss. Similarly, debris or chemicals can lead to vision problems or loss.
What to Do After a Serious Injury on a Construction Site in Orland Park
Handling the aftermath of an accident in Orland Park, IL can have a profound impact on the outcome of a construction accident case. Follow these steps:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. Get medical help immediately, even if your injuries seem minor at first. Some damages may not present symptoms immediately.
Report the Accident
Inform your supervisor about the accident as soon as possible. Provide as many details as you can remember.
Document the Incident
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any unsafe conditions. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information.
Keep a Record of Medical Treatments
Maintain a record of all medical treatments, medications, and any other health care services you receive.
Contact an experienced construction accident attorney
Reach out to a personal injury lawyer in Orland Park, IL who can guide you through the complex legal process. The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers are experienced in handling construction accident cases like yours.
Do not Discuss the Accident
Refrain from discussing the accident or your injury with anyone other than your lawyer, especially representatives from insurance companies. Your statements could be used against you in your claim.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment
Continue with the prescribed medical treatment and attend all scheduled appointments. This demonstrates that you are actively trying to recover from your injuries.
Do I Need a Lawyer for a Personal Injury Claim?
A lawyer can play a crucial role in your personal injury claim following a construction accident by providing the following services to clients:
- Legal Guidance: A lawyer can guide you through the legal processes involved in personal injury claims and provide counsel tailored to your unique case.
- Gathering Evidence: A skilled lawyer can help collect crucial evidence of your construction accident, interview witnesses, and prepare a strong case to prove liability.
- Negotiations with Insurance Companies: Lawyers are adept at negotiating with insurance companies to get you the maximum compensation you deserve.
- Representation in Court: If negotiations fail to result in an acceptable settlement, a construction accident attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your rights to ensure the best possible outcome.
What is the Difference Between a Third-Party Lawsuit and Workers’ Compensation in Illinois?
In Illinois, workers’ compensation is a form of no-fault insurance that employers are required to have under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. Providing benefits such as paying medical bills and lost wages to workers who are injured on the job, a workers compensation claim provides certain benefits regardless of who was at fault.
On the other hand, a third-party lawsuit is a legal action taken against a party other than the employer, such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer, who may have contributed to the accident. This type of lawsuit is pursued in civil court and can provide compensation beyond what is available through workers’ compensation, including damages for pain and suffering.
Types of Compensation for a Construction Accident Victim
In the aftermath of a construction accident, victims may be eligible for various types of compensation.
Economic compensation covers quantifiable losses from construction accident injuries such as medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and any future loss of earnings due to the injury.
Non-economic compensation, on the other hand, pertains to intangible damages that don’t have a direct cost but significantly impact the victim’s life. This may cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.
What Is My Case Worth?
The worth of a construction accident injury claim is determined by several factors including:
- Severity of the Injury: More severe injuries typically result in higher compensation.
- Impact on Earning Capacity: If the injury impacts your ability to work, it may increase the value of the claim.
- Medical Expenses: The cost of medical treatment, both present, and future, can significantly affect the worth of the settlement.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be increased if the injury has caused substantial physical pain or emotional distress.
How Much Time Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Lawsuit in Illinois?
In the state of Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the construction accident.
Contact a Orland Park Construction Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident in Orland Park, IL don’t hesitate to contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers. Our highly skilled personal injury attorneys are ready to work diligently for your rights and help you get the maximum compensation you deserve.
We operate on a contingency basis, so you don’t pay unless we win. Reach out today for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700