Construction Accidents

Why Choose Walner Law for Your Chicago Construction Accident Case?

Walner Law has proudly advocated for injured workers and their families since 1961. We are determined to hold negligent parties accountable and make your recovery our priority. Why should you choose Walner Law for your construction accident claim?

• Proven Track Record of Success: With over 60 years of experience, we’ve recovered significant settlements for our clients, including $21 million for a spinal cord injury from an auto accident and $45 million for a near-fatal crash.
• Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the emotional and financial hardships caused by construction accidents. That’s why we treat you like family, offering compassionate support while fighting for your best interests.
• Chicago Roots, Community Focus: From Roseland to Austin, we know Chicagoland’s neighborhoods and care about giving back to local communities. Your trust is everything to us, and we are dedicated to standing by you.

If you suffered a construction site injury, you need legal allies who will fight tirelessly on your behalf. Contact Walner Law today for a free consultation and see how we can help.

Dangers at Construction Sites

Construction work, by nature, is hazardous. Unsafe conditions, powerful machinery, and towering heights all contribute to risks faced by workers daily. According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), the “Fatal Four” — leading causes of death in the construction industry — claim hundreds of lives every year.

1. Falls

Falls are the most common cause of construction-related fatalities, accounting for about one-third of all deaths. Workers operating at heights, such as on scaffolding or roofs, face significant risks due to improper safety equipment, weak structures, or lack of proper harnesses.

2. Struck-By Accidents

Workers can be struck by heavy machinery, falling tools, or construction materials. These incidents can cause life-altering injuries, such as brain trauma or fractures, especially in poorly managed work zones.

3. Electrocutions

Handling exposed wires, power lines, and electrical installations puts workers at high risk of electrocution. Improper training and failure to de-energize circuits increase these dangers.

4. Caught-In/Between Accidents

These happen when a worker is crushed between machinery, equipment, or collapsing structures. Faulty machinery, lack of safeguards, and negligent operations can all lead to devastating accidents.

When employers fail to adhere to safety standards and protect workers, they put lives in danger. If you’ve suffered due to unsafe working conditions, you have the right to seek justice with an experienced Chicago construction accident attorney.

Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Construction Accident Claims

Construction accident victims often wonder whether their case involves filing a workers’ compensation claim, a third-party liability claim, or both. Understanding the difference is crucial.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

All employers in Illinois are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system designed to provide benefits to employees for work-related injuries, regardless of who caused the accident. Filing a workers’ comp claim typically allows you to recover for the following damages:

• Medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and rehabilitation costs
• A portion of lost wages while recovering
• Disability benefits for temporary or permanent impairments

While workers’ comp has its benefits, it does limit the compensation you can receive. Additionally, you typically cannot sue your direct employer for negligence under this system. 

Third-Party Construction Accident Claims

A third-party claim allows you to seek additional compensation through a personal injury lawsuit if someone outside your employer — like a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner — is liable for your accident. This personal injury claim is rooted in negligence and may cover broader damages, such as:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Full lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Punitive damages in extreme cases

For example, if faulty scaffolding caused your injuries, the manufacturer could be held accountable through a third-party lawsuit. Navigating these claims requires skilled legal representation to identify all liable parties and maximize your compensation.

Walner Law handles both workers’ comp and third-party claims, ensuring you have all avenues explored to secure justice and fair compensation.

Construction Accidents Can Affect Anyone

While many construction workers are injured on the job, others can be harmed in construction site accidents. For example, construction accident injuries can happen to others, such as passersby struck by falling debris. An injured construction worker or otherwise should reach out to a Chicago construction accident attorney to review legal options related to negligence and other construction side conditions that resulted in those serious injuries.

Who May Be Held Liable in a Chicago Construction Accident Case?

Determining liability is a crucial step in any construction accident claim, as multiple parties could share responsibility depending on the circumstances. Potentially liable parties include:

• General Contractors and Subcontractors: These parties are responsible for maintaining safe job sites and ensuring workers follow safety protocols. Negligence, such as failing to provide proper equipment or allowing unsafe practices, can make them accountable.
• Property Owners: Property owners must ensure their premises are free from hazards for workers. Unsafe site conditions can leave them partially or fully liable for injuries.
• Equipment Manufacturers: Faulty or poorly designed machinery can lead to severe injuries. The manufacturer may bear responsibility if the equipment malfunctions due to design defects or lack of warnings.
• Third-Party Vendors or Suppliers: Companies providing materials or services to the construction site may also be liable if their negligence contributed to the accident.

Identifying all liable parties is key to building a strong case. Walner Law’s experienced legal team will thoroughly investigate your accident, consult experts, and ensure those at fault are held accountable for their actions.

Contact Our Trusted Chicago Construction Accident Lawyers Today

Construction accidents can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. At Walner Law, our Chicago personal injury lawyers can help you regain control, hold negligent parties accountable, and move forward with confidence.

Here’s how Walner Law can support you in your construction accident case:

• Thorough Investigation: We’ll examine every detail of your accident, identify all liable parties, and build a strong case.
• Negotiation and Litigation: We will deal with insurance companies and fight for maximum compensation, whether through negotiation or in court.
• Personalized Guidance: From start to finish, we’ll treat you with care and compassion, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You don’t pay us attorney’s fees unless we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor.

Don’t leave your future in the hands of uncertainty. Contact Walner Law today at (312) 410-8496 or through our online form for a free consultation with our trusted Chicago construction accident lawyer.