Rockford Construction Accident Attorney
Understanding Illinois Construction Site Liability
Construction sites are known to be some of the most dangerous workplaces, and the potential for serious harm from an accident is high. When an accident does occur, our skilled personal injury lawyers in Rockford, IL can pursue legal action to hold the at-fault party accountable for your accident and any related financial losses.
Those who may be held at fault include:
- Site owners
- Architects
- Engineers
- General contractors
- Sub-contractors
- Site managers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Drivers of worksite vehicles
Since there are typically many different people working on a given construction site, proving who is liable for your accident can be complicated and should be handled by a Rockford construction accident attorney experienced in the field.
Injured in a construction accident? Get compassionate representation by calling (815) 216-5911 or contacting DeRango & Cain, LLC online today!
Illinois Worksite Injury Regulations & Considerations
Illinois has specific regulations regarding workplace safety and liability that directly impact construction site injuries. These regulations are governed by state laws as well as federal guidelines from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). They aim to protect employees by ensuring work environments meet certain safety standards to prevent accidents whenever possible. Understanding these regulations can help establish liability in the event of an accident and determine the permissible course for legal action.
Rockford's climate, featuring hot summers and cold, snowy winters, plays a significant role in the frequency and type of construction accidents in the area. Slippery conditions caused by snow and ice or extreme heat can significantly impact construction site safety. For instance, during winter, icy surfaces and falling hazards become predominant, increasing the risk of slip-and-fall accidents or vehicle-related incidents on the site.
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
Understanding the typical causes of construction site accidents can help in identifying liability and pursuing appropriate legal action. Some prevalent causes include:
- Falls from Heights: Ladders, scaffolding, and unprotected edges pose significant fall risks.
- Falling Objects: Tools or materials dropped from above can cause severe injuries.
- Equipment Malfunctions: Defective or improperly maintained machinery can lead to accidents.
- Electrocutions: Contact with live wires or faulty electrical systems is a common hazard.
- Trench Collapses: Improperly secured trenches can cave in, trapping workers.
A Rockford construction accident lawyer can investigate the specific circumstances of an accident to determine the underlying causes and responsible parties.
Damages That Can Be Compensated in a Construction Accident Claim
In Illinois, if you're injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of your case and whether it proceeds through a workers' compensation claim, a third-party personal injury lawsuit, or both. Potential compensation includes:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for all necessary treatment related to the injury: hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and medications. Additionally, future medical costs, if ongoing care is required.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost while recovering and unable to work. If you're able to work in a limited capacity at lower pay, you may receive partial wage replacement. Or if your injuries result in long-term or permanent impairment, you may receive compensation based on the degree of disability.
- Vocational Rehabilitation: If you can't return to your previous job, you may receive training or job placement assistance to help transition to a new line of work.
- Pain and Suffering (only available in third-party claims): Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, trauma, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the injury.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If your injury limits your ability to earn the same income in the future, you may be compensated for the difference.
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Additional compensation may be available if the accident causes permanent visible scars or disfigurement.
- Wrongful Death Benefits: If a loved one dies in a construction accident, surviving family members may receive compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Tenacious Representation in Winnebago County
At DeRango & Cain, LLC, we examine your accident in detail to see how negligence played a role. We can even file a workers' compensation claim on your behalf if it is determined that no negligence was involved. After being seriously injured, the last thing you want to think about is legal proceedings. Let our seasoned Rockford construction accident lawyers advocate on your behalf in and out of court so you can focus on moving forward after an incident.
When you are injured through no fault of your own, you need reliable legal advice and representation. This is precisely what we at DeRango & Cain, LLC work hard to do with each client who reaches out to us. We have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our injured clients and have over 100 years of combined experience, which means we understand how to navigate the claims process and put together effective injury suits for our clients.
Reach out to our Rockford construction accident attorneys today and schedule a free consultation— (815) 216-5911
FAQ: Navigating Your Construction Accident Case
What Steps Should I Take After a Construction Accident?
Immediately following a construction accident, your top priority should be ensuring your safety and the safety of others around you. Here's a concise checklist:
- Seek Medical Attention: Get checked by a healthcare professional, even if injuries seem minor, as certain conditions can manifest later.
- Report the Accident: Notify your supervisor or site manager to ensure it is formally documented.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the site and your injuries, and collect witness statements.
- Maintain Records: Keep all medical reports and documents related to your accident and injuries.
- Consult an Attorney: Contact a construction accident lawyer to guide you through the legal process.
By taking these steps, you are not only prioritizing your health but also establishing a foundational basis for any legal action you may pursue.
How Does Comparative Negligence Affect My Case in Illinois?
Illinois follows the rule of comparative negligence, which means that if you are partially at fault for your construction accident, it could affect the compensation you receive. Under the state's modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Understanding this rule is crucial because it directly impacts the strategy your legal team will use when pursuing a case. It’s essential to discuss your case details with an attorney who can help clarify the complexities of comparative negligence and ensure that you are pursuing the most favorable outcome.
What Compensation Can I Expect from a Construction Accident Case?
Compensation from a construction accident can generally include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Calculating compensation accurately requires a thorough evaluation of the impact of injuries on your professional and personal life. In Rockford, where high-risk industrial jobs are prevalent, understanding the full scope of your damages is critical.
Your attorney can work with vocational experts and economists to project future losses, ensuring that you are adequately compensated. This comprehensive approach helps secure a settlement that truly reflects your suffering and meets your ongoing needs.
Why Is Having a Local Construction Accident Attorney Important?
Having an attorney familiar with the local area, like DeRango & Cain, LLC, is beneficial for several reasons. A local attorney understands the specific risks and employer practices common to Rockford's construction industry, as well as the intricacies of Illinois state law. This familiarity allows them to efficiently navigate local court systems and develop strong, locally relevant arguments on your behalf.
Additionally, their established relationships with local experts and the judiciary can provide strategic advantages, ensuring that your case is handled with the community's legal nuances in mind.
Can I Still Pursue a Case If I'm Receiving Workers' Compensation?
Yes, you can pursue a third-party claim even if you are receiving workers' compensation. While workers' compensation covers medical bills and a portion of lost wages, it does not account for pain and suffering or negligence by a third party. For example, if a construction equipment manufacturer is at fault for your injury, you may pursue additional claims outside of workers' compensation.
This legal route provides a means of obtaining the comprehensive compensation needed for a full recovery, addressing both economic and non-economic damages. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney ensures you are fully informed of your options and rights in pursuing such claims.
Construction accidents can lead to serious injuries and lifelong consequences. Don’t face it alone—call (815) 216-5911 or contact online a Rockford construction accident attorney today to schedule your free legal consultation.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.
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Not Guilty Aggravated Battery
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Dismissal Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse
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Not Guilty Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse
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Not Guilty Aggravated Criminal Sexual Abuse
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Not Guilty Aggravated DUI
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Probation Attempted Murder and Aggravated Battery with a Firearm