Chicago Construction Injury Lawyer

Recovering Compensation in Construction Accident Cases

A Chicago construction injury lawyer from our firm can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the lasting impact of your injuries. Whether you were hurt by heavy equipment, falling materials, or unsafe site conditions, we’re here to hold negligent parties accountable and guide you through your legal options.

Recovering compensation after a serious job site injury isn’t easy, especially in a city like Chicago, where construction projects move fast and liability is often disputed. At IL Work Injury Lawyer, our legal team fights to ensure injured workers aren’t left paying out of pocket for someone else’s mistake.

Construction Accident Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

At IL Work Injury Lawyer, we have extensive experience representing injured construction workers and their families throughout the Chicago area. Our law firm has successfully handled complex construction accident cases involving falls, equipment failures, debris hazards, and safety violations on job sites across Illinois.

$11,000,000 – Fatal Fall Through Skylight Opening

Carlos, a 34-year-old roofer, was working on a commercial building project in Chicago when he fell through an uncovered opening designated for a skylight. The fall was fatal. His family filed a fatal accident claim, alleging that the general contractor failed to secure the area or provide proper fall protection, despite OSHA regulations.

The settlement reflected the employer’s clear liability, the young age of the worker, and the financial and emotional loss to his surviving spouse and children. The family received $11 million after proving that basic safety measures were ignored on the construction site.

$7,200,000 – Ladder Fall at Warehouse Construction Site

Eric, an experienced electrician, was installing cable on a warehouse project when he fell from a ladder that had been placed on an unstable surface. He suffered a traumatic brain injury and spinal fractures, resulting in permanent disability.

Our law firm demonstrated that the site lacked appropriate ladder safety protocols and failed to provide a spotter or secure base. The severity of Eric’s injuries, combined with his long-term loss of income, led to a $7.2 million settlement, paid by multiple parties, including the project’s general contractor.

$2,900,000 – Trip and Fall Over Construction Debris

Steve, a union carpenter, was carrying materials across an active construction site when he tripped over scattered debris left by another subcontractor. He sustained severe knee and back injuries, requiring multiple surgeries and forcing early retirement.

We pursued a claim against the general contractor, showing they failed to maintain a safe, clean work area in violation of site safety rules. The $2.9 million settlement covered his medical bills, lost earnings, and future care needs.

Why We Are the Best Construction Accident Attorneys for Your Case 

At IL Work Injury Lawyer, our attorneys have earned recognition from respected legal organizations for their results in complex personal injury and workplace accident cases. Our top-rated Chicago construction accident attorneys have been featured in Super Lawyers and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum for excellence in client advocacy and trial performance.

With decades of combined experience, we know how to handle serious construction site accidents—from falls to equipment failures—and build strong claims that hold negligent parties accountable. We offer a free consultation, and there’s no fee unless we recover compensation on your behalf.

What Are Your Legal Options Following a Construction Site Accident in Chicago

After being injured on a construction site, knowing your legal options is key to getting the compensation you deserve. Depending on the cause and the parties involved, you may be eligible to file a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party lawsuit. An experienced Chicago construction accident lawyer can guide you forward.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

If you’re injured on the job, filing a workers’ compensation claim is often your first legal step. In Illinois, this system allows injured workers to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits, regardless of who was at fault. You don’t need to prove negligence to qualify. However, workers’ compensation doesn’t cover non-economic damages like pain and suffering.

Third Party Claims

If someone other than your employer—such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—was responsible for the accident, you may have grounds for a third-party claim. These lawsuits allow injured workers to pursue compensation beyond what workers’ comp covers, including pain and suffering.

For example, if a scaffolding company failed to secure a platform that caused your fall, they could be held liable.

Personal Injury Claims

When negligence by a person or business causes an accident, a personal injury claim may be appropriate. This type of lawsuit can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and non-economic damages such as emotional distress or physical pain.

Personal injury claims often come into play when construction accidents involve negligent drivers, unsafe site management, or failure to comply with safety regulations.

Product Liability Claims

If your injury was caused by defective tools, safety gear, or heavy machinery, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer. These claims can arise from design flaws, manufacturing errors, or a lack of adequate safety warnings.

For example, a malfunctioning nail gun or a faulty ladder may justify a separate legal action. Product liability suits can be complex and require expert testimony, so it’s vital to work with a Chicago construction accident lawyer familiar with these types of claims and how to prove them.

Wrongful Death Claims

If a loved one dies following an injury on a construction site, surviving family members may be eligible to file a fatal accident lawsuit. These claims provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of future income, and the emotional and financial loss of a spouse, parent, or child.

A skilled Chicago construction accident attorney can guide your family through the legal process and pursue accountability from all responsible parties, including employers and negligent third parties.

Types of Construction Injury Cases We Handle

Scaffold accidents — Claims involving falls or collapses related to scaffolding at job sites.

Ladder accidents — Injuries caused by defective ladders or unsafe ladder use at elevation.

Crane accidents — Legal actions involving crane malfunctions or operator negligence.

Forklift accidents — Incidents involving improperly maintained or operated equipment.

Third-party contractor negligence — Cases where a non-employer contractor’s negligence causes harm.

General contractor or subcontractor liability — Situations where poor oversight or unsafe practices by site supervisors lead to injuries.

Premises liability at construction sites — Claims arising from dangerous site conditions, such as uncovered holes or unsecured materials.

Falling object and struck-by accidents — Legal actions for workers or bystanders injured by falling tools, debris, or materials.

Electrocution accidents — Cases involving electrocution or arc flash injuries due to unsafe electrical setups.

Roadway construction zone accidents — Claims involving workers or motorists injured due to poor traffic control or visibility.

Trench collapse lawsuits — Actions related to unsafe excavation or failure to follow OSHA trench safety standards.

Independent contractor injury claims — Lawsuits where injured workers are classified as independent contractors rather than employees.

Fatal accidents — Claims filed by surviving family members after a fatal construction site incident.

Bystander injury cases — Legal claims filed by non-workers injured near or around an active construction zone.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Construction Accidents in Chicago?

At IL Work Injury Lawyer, we represent clients injured on construction sites in a wide range of cases, including:

• Falls from height (scaffolding, ladders, roofs);
• Falling tools or debris;
• Lack of fall protection;
• Unsafe scaffolding or ladder setup;
• Electrocution from exposed wiring or live equipment;
• Crane or forklift accidents;
• Trench collapses;
• Improper site supervision or safety training;
• Defective or unguarded machinery;
• Slips and trips on uneven or obstructed surfaces;
• Unsecured loads or materials;
• Failure to follow OSHA safety protocols;
• Poor communication between subcontractors;
• Inadequate lighting or signage in work zones;
• Vehicle collisions in or around the site.

No matter the type of construction accident, our law firm is committed to helping injured victims recover full compensation.

(Occupational Safety and Health Administration) OSHA Construction Industry Requirements

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces safety standards under 29 CFR Part 1926 to protect workers in the construction industry, one of the most hazardous job sectors in the country.

These OSHA construction industry requirements are designed to prevent injuries and fatalities caused by falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between hazards.

• Subpart M – Fall Protection: Requires protection for workers at heights of six feet or more. Includes guardrails, harnesses, and hole covers.
• Subpart X – Stairways and Ladders: Mandates safe access between elevations and proper ladder use when breaks in elevation exceed 19 inches.
• Subpart L – Scaffolds: Covers construction, use, and inspection of scaffolding, including fall protection systems.
• Subpart K – Electrical: Addresses safety around live wires, temporary power sources, and equipment grounding.
• Subpart P – Excavations: Requires protective systems for trenches deeper than five feet unless in stable rock.
• Subpart G – Signs, Signals, and Barricades: Ensures proper signage and visibility around hazards.
• Subpart O – Motor Vehicles and Mechanized Equipment: Regulates the safe use of construction vehicles and heavy machinery.

These OSHA standards are legally binding, and employers who fail to follow them may be held liable for construction accidents that occur due to noncompliance.

What Are the Most Common Construction Accident Injuries?

Construction sites are dangerous by nature, and when safety protocols fail, the injuries can be life-changing or even fatal. Some of the most common construction accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI);
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis;
• Fractures and broken bones;
• Amputations;
• Crush injuries;
• Burns (thermal or electrical);
• Lacerations and deep cuts;
• Eye injuries and vision loss;
• Hearing loss from explosions or loud machinery;
• Internal bleeding or organ damage;
• Joint injuries (shoulder, knee, wrist);
• Soft tissue damage (tendons, ligaments, muscles);
• Psychological trauma or PTSD;
• Fatal injuries.

What Damages Can Injured Construction Workers Recover in Chicago?

Injured construction workers in Chicago may be able to recover several types of damages, depending on the circumstances of the accident.

Through a workers’ compensation claim, most workers are entitled to coverage for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages. These benefits are available regardless of who was at fault, but they typically don’t include compensation for pain and suffering.

If a negligent third party contributed to the injury, a personal injury or third-party lawsuit may be possible. In those cases, injured victims can pursue compensation for pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, future medical expenses, and full wage loss, including the impact on long-term earning potential.

A Chicago construction accident attorney can help identify every liable party and seek maximum compensation through both workers’ comp benefits and any available third-party claims.

What Is the Average Construction Accident Settlement in Chicago?

Based on Law.com‘s Verdict Search, the average construction accident settlement in Chicago is $2,586,506, with a median of $1,350,000. Key factors that impact settlement amounts include:

• Severity of the injury – More serious injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage, typically lead to higher settlements due to long-term medical care and disability.
• Lost wages and future earnings – Settlements may increase significantly when a worker can’t return to their prior job or career.
• Liability and evidence – Clear proof of a construction company’s or third party’s negligence can strengthen a claim and increase its value.
• Insurance policy limits – The amount available for settlement may be capped by the defendant’s insurance coverage.
• Venue and jury trends – Cook County, for example, tends to award higher verdicts compared to other counties.

Working with an experienced Chicago construction accident lawyer can help ensure a fair settlement based on these and other case-specific factors.

Example Construction Site Accident Cases in Chicago

$20.9 Million Jury Verdict for Ironworker Injured by Falling Steel Beam

Rick Blaisdell, a 35-year-old ironworker, suffered catastrophic injuries when a steel beam fell on him at a Lisle construction site. The beam, suspended by a crane operated by his co-worker at Barrco Industries, broke free after striking a steel column. Blaisdell lost his left arm, sustained a brain injury, internal bleeding, and required multiple surgeries.

He sued several parties, but only the general contractor, Frederick Quinn Corp., went to trial. The jury found the contractor liable for failing to supervise job site safety. Blaisdell had already secured $2.08 million in settlements from other defendants. He was awarded $20,937,743 in damages, reflecting his severe injuries, disability, disfigurement, and lost earnings capacity.

$13 Million Settlement After Crane Load Falls on Laborer at Chicago Job Site

Adan Carriedo, a 39-year-old laborer, was severely injured when a load of materials fell from a crane at a condominium construction project on State Street. The load had been improperly stacked and was being lifted by crane when it shifted and struck him. Carriedo suffered pelvic and skull fractures, a severed finger, and other injuries requiring multiple surgeries and a long recovery.

He was left unable to return to work. Carriedo sued Leopardo Industries, the general contractor, for failure to supervise the crane operation. After four days of trial, the case settled for $13 million, exhausting all available insurance policy limits.

$10.1 Million Verdict for Driver Left Paralyzed in Construction Vehicle Crash

Mary Harvey, 70, was hit by a K-5 Construction Co. vehicle when its driver made a left turn in front of her on Route 53. The defense argued Harvey ran a red light, but the jury found the driver negligent. Harvey suffered quadriparesis, disfigurement, and chronic pain, leaving her in a wheelchair.

Her husband, Gene, filed a loss of consortium claim. The jury awarded a total of $10,121,547, including $3.37 million in medical costs, $3 million for pain and suffering, and $3 million for loss of normal life.

Why You Need a Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer

Accident and injury cases involving construction sites in Chicago are rarely straightforward. Victims often face powerful construction companies, multiple contractors, and insurers eager to shift blame. These cases may involve complex liability questions, OSHA violations, and multiple parties—all of which require a legal team that knows how to build a strong case.

A top-rated Chicago construction accident lawyer understands local procedures in Cook County Circuit Court and other area jurisdictions. From dealing with union-related issues to preserving critical job site evidence, having skilled legal counsel can make all the difference in recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term injuries.

How Common Are Construction Accidents in Chicago?

Construction is among the most dangerous occupations worldwide. Since 2020, there have been 168 serious construction-related accidents reported to OSHA in the Chicago area, resulting in 119 fatalities. 

Construction accident statistics reveal that the most deadly incidents involve falls from height. Other fatal cases included workers struck by falling objects, caught in or between machinery, and electrocuted on active construction sites. Equipment failures, trench collapses, scaffold collapses, and crane-related incidents also contributed to the casualty count. 

Where Do Construction Site Accidents Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Construction site injuries in Chicago often occur on major commercial developments, high-rise projects, and infrastructure works throughout the city.

Busy corridors like the Loop, Fulton Market, and areas along the Chicago River see frequent construction activity and risk. Accidents are also common along roads like I-90/94 during highway improvement projects and in residential developments on the South and West Sides.

Workers at sites managed by large contractors or subcontractors, such as Walsh Group or Leopardo Companies, may face unsafe conditions if proper safety measures aren’t enforced. From scaffolding falls to equipment mishaps, these high-traffic job sites often carry the most significant risk.

What State Laws Govern Construction Accident Claims in Chicago?

Construction workplace injury claims in Chicago are primarily governed by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act and state personal injury laws.

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305) ensures injured construction workers receive medical treatment and partial wage replacement, regardless of fault.

When a negligent third party causes the injury, workers can also file a personal injury lawsuit under Illinois negligence law. Chicago’s Building Code outlines local safety standards that employers and contractors must follow on job sites.

A notable example of personal injury litigation is Blaisdell v. Frederick Quinn Corp., where an ironworker who lost an arm and sustained a traumatic brain injury due to a falling steel beam was awarded more than $20 million. The jury held the general contractor liable for failing to ensure job site safety, establishing a strong precedent for third-party construction claims.

How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Injury Lawsuit in Chicago?

In Chicago, the time limit to file a construction accident lawsuit depends on the type of claim.

For most personal injury claims, including those arising from construction accidents, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury, as outlined in the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure, 735 ILCS 5/13-202. If the injury resulted in death, the wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the date of death under 740 ILCS 180/2.

For workers’ compensation claims, the deadline is generally three years from the date of injury or two years from the last payment of benefits, whichever is later, under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305/6(d)). Acting promptly is essential to protect your right to recover compensation.

Who Is Legally Liable for Construction Accidents in Chicago?

In Chicago construction accidents, legal liability often depends on who controlled the worksite and created or failed to correct a hazardous condition. Common defendants include general contractors and subcontractors who are responsible for maintaining safe work environments. Property owners may be liable if they retained control over site conditions.

Equipment manufacturers can be sued if defective machinery contributed to the injury. Architects or engineers might share fault if design flaws played a role. In some cases, third-party vendors or site inspectors may also be held accountable. A Chicago construction accident attorney can help identify all liable parties in your case.

Common Defenses in Chicago Construction Accident Cases

Defendants often argue that the construction accident victim was at fault, that the hazard was open and obvious, or that safety protocols were in place but ignored. Some claim the injuries were pre-existing or exaggerated. Others shift blame to another contractor or argue the worker wasn’t their employee.

Our law firm counters these defenses by using safety records, eyewitness accounts, OSHA violations, and expert testimony to prove negligence. We also rely on medical records to tie the injury directly to the accident and highlight any failure to follow safety regulations or industry standards on the job site.

How to Strengthen Your Construction Site Injury Case in Chicago

To strengthen your construction site injury case in Chicago, take immediate action to protect your legal rights.

First, seek medical attention right away, even if the injury seems minor. Medical records will serve as critical evidence linking your injuries to the construction accident. Report the incident to your supervisor or site manager and ask for a copy of the accident report.

If possible, take photos of the scene, any hazardous conditions, equipment involved, and visible injuries. Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the fall or unsafe conditions.

Avoid giving recorded statements to the insurance company before speaking with a Chicago construction accident lawyer. Keep records of all expenses, including medical bills, time missed from work, and any treatments received.

Finally, consult an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case, preserve evidence, and guide you through your legal options—whether you’re pursuing a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party lawsuit.

How a Chicago Construction Accident Attorney Can Help

A Chicago construction accident attorney provides vital support throughout your case. From the start, we will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and identify all responsible parties. We’ll secure key documents like safety reports, witness statements, and medical records to build a strong claim.

We will also calculate your full damages, including lost wages, medical expenses, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering. Whether filing a workers’ compensation claim or pursuing a third-party lawsuit, we will handle all negotiations with insurers and, if necessary, represent you in court to fight for full compensation.

Chicago Construction Accident FAQs

Consult a Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer Near You!

Injured on a construction site in Chicago? Don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At IL Work Injury Lawyer, our experienced construction accident lawyers are ready to fight for your right to fair compensation after a construction accident. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Whether you’re dealing with lost wages, medical expenses, or long-term injuries, a Chicago construction accident lawyer from our firm can help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward financial recovery.