A falling object at a construction site can cause severe, often catastrophic injuries. Although Illinois’s no-fault workers’ compensation benefits cover all workers, they typically only cover medical care and partial loss of income. The state’s workers’ compensation legislation also protects employers and, in most cases, prevent you from suing them directly.
However, if your accident resulted from a third party’s negligence, you may pursue a claim to recover your total financial losses and pain and suffering. Our knowledgeable construction site accident attorneys have experience handling claims arising from falling object construction injuries in Chicago and can help manage your case.
How Do Falling Object Accidents Often Occur?
Falling object accidents, also called struck-by accidents, are a major hazard on construction sites. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) lists them as one of the leading causes of job site fatalities, along with falls, caught-in or -between incidents, and electrocutions.
Struck-by incidents occur when debris, materials, tools, or equipment swing or drop from above, striking workers or bystanders. Even a small or lightweight item can cause severe, life-altering injuries, and the force of impact increases depending on the size and weight of the object. A one-pound item plunging from six feet or more can cause fractures, traumatic brain injuries, or other serious trauma.
If your injuries resulted from falling materials or moving machinery at a Chicago building site, we can answer your questions and support you throughout the claims process.
Legal Considerations in Falling Object Cases
Before pursuing an injury claim because of dropped or swinging items at a Chicago worksite, you should be aware of key legal issues. Many preventable accidents that lead to worker injuries involve OSHA violations. Obtaining inspection reports, as well as historical compliance and incident reports, can provide you with critical evidence to support your case.
Deadlines
It is critical that you comply with the appropriate rules and regulations, including the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury actions. Under 735 Illinois Compiled Statutes 5/13-202, you must prepare and file your claim within two years of the accident. We can investigate your accident, communicate and negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, prepare and file suit in civil court in accordance with the applicable statutes.
Potential Liable Parties
Depending on the circumstances of your case, potentially liable parties may include:
- Property owners or developers under premises liability
- Equipment manufacturers or distributors if a defective product contributed to the accident
- General contractors, construction managers, or subcontractors if unsafe working conditions were involved
- Architects or engineers if faulty design, inadequate safety planning, or flawed structural work played a role
If a third party’s negligence caused or contributed to your struck-by accident, they may be liable for damages, including pain and suffering, permanent disability, and lost income. We can thoroughly review the evidence to pinpoint the cause of the incident and identify every party at fault.
Call a Chicago Lawyer About Your Injuries From Falling Construction Objects
If the negligent actions of another party at a worksite caused you harm, you have legal rights and may pursue compensation from the liable parties. A settlement may compensate you for losses that workers’ compensation does not cover while also holding the responsible parties accountable.
At Kaveny Sarmas Injury Lawyers, we can review your claim, explain your options, and help you understand the legal consequences of falling object construction injuries in Chicago. Contact us today to begin your claim and ensure compliance with all relevant statutes and deadlines.
