Scissor Lift Accident Claim Attorney in Chicago

Helping Illinois Workers Injured in Scissor Lift Accidents Recover Maximum Compensation

Scissor lifts present unique risks on a construction site. If you get hurt while using or standing near a scissor lift, you could suffer serious injuries that put you out of work. A scissor lift accident claim attorney from IL Work Injury Lawyer can guide you through the claims process to pursue compensation. 

Why Choose IL Work Injury Lawyer

Our firm has received an A+ grade from the Better Business Bureau, and our head attorney serves as a contributing author for the National Law Review. We also have experience in lift accident cases and have secured millions for our clients at a 98% success rate.

Jamal, a 42-year-old electrician from Garfield Park, suffered severe electrical burns when his aerial lift hit an unmarked live power line at a West Loop construction site. He was left with permanent nerve damage due to poor site safety and contractor negligence. The accident settlement was worth $10.5 million. 

What Are Common Causes of Scissor Lift Accidents in Illinois?

• Failure to provide fall protection safety equipment
• Operating on slopes, holes, or unstable surfaces
• Exceeding the lift’s weight capacity
• Property owner negligence
• Lack of operator training
• Defective scissor lift design 
• Poor maintenance
• Moving the lift without proper precautions

What Are Common Scissor Lift Injuries?

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Electrocution burns
• Fatal injuries

What Damages Can Injured Workers Recover in Illinois?

Under state law 820 ILCS 305, injured construction workers can seek lost wages, medical expenses, TTD benefits, PPD/PTD benefits, and death benefits for surviving family members through workers’ compensation.

Personal injury victims can pursue damages if they are no more than 50% liable for their accidents (735 ILCS 5/2-1116). You can recover lost wages, medical expenses, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of normal life after a scissor lift accident. 

What Is the Average Scissor Lift Accident Payout?

The range of scissor lift accident payouts is $80,000 to $16.55 million. The average settlement is almost $3 million. Factors that affect your claim’s value include fall height, injury severity, ability to work, OSHA violations, and defective scissor lift claims. 

Why You Need an Illinois Scissor Lift Injury Claim Lawyer

The presence of multiple defendants can complicate matters. You may need to prove liability for the employer, general contractor, equipment rental company, or manufacturer. 

Another challenge you’ll face is the defense strategy of the at-fault party, which could involve:

• Claiming that the victim was improperly using the lift
• Arguing that the lift was in good condition
• Alleging no PPE compliance
• Comparative fault allegations

IL Work Injury Lawyer can overcome these defenses with maintenance records, witness statements, surveillance footage, and OSHA investigations. 

How Common Are Scissor Lift Accidents in Illinois?

In 2024, there were four scissor lift accidents reported in Chicago alone. All four of these incidents resulted in the deaths of construction workers or other employees. 

Where Do Scissor Lift Accidents Happen Most in Illinois?

• Warehouse and distribution centers in Cook County
• Store renovations in suburban Chicago
• Airport construction projects at O’Hare and Midway
• Industrial plants in Cicero, Joliet, and Bedford Park

OSHA Scissor Lift Regulations

If you want to take advantage of the benefits workers’ compensation covers, you may need proof of OSHA violations. 

OSHA has several regulations regarding the safe operation of scissor lifts:

• Only trained employees can operate scissor lifts
• Scissor lifts must be equipped with guardrails to maximize safety
• Employers must ensure scissor lifts are stable and cannot tip over or collapse 

How Long Do Injured Construction Workers Have to Take Legal Action in Illinois?

• 735 ILCS 5/13-202 – Injured victims have two years to file a personal injury case
• 820 ILCS 305/6(d) – Workers have three years from the date of the injury or two years from the last payment of benefits to file a workers’ compensation claim.
• 740 ILCS 180/2 – Surviving family members have two years to pursue wrongful death damages after the victim’s passing

Who Can Be Liable for a Scissor Lift Accident in Illinois?

• Employer (workers’ comp only)
• General contractor
• Lift rental company
• Equipment manufacturer
• Property owner
• Maintenance companies

How to Strengthen Your Scissor Lift Accident Case

The following steps can help you build a strong claim after a catastrophic injury:

• Report the accident immediately
• Seek medical care
• Photograph the scissor lift
• Get witness contact information
• Preserve defective equipment
• Contact our top-rated law firm in Chicago

How IL Work Injury Lawyer Can Help

Our legal team can provide the following services:

• Filing workers’ comp claims
• Pursuing product liability lawsuits
• Working with OSHA and engineering experts
• Negotiating maximum settlements
• Litigating in Cook County Circuit Court or other Illinois courts

Book a Free Consultation

IL Work Injury Lawyer operates on a contingency fee basis. This means you owe nothing unless we win the case. Additionally, we also offer a free consultation so you can ask questions about common causes of scissor lift accidents, your workers’ compensation, or third-party liability claim. 

We can represent clients across the state. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Chicago workplace accident attorney.