A Cook County, Illinois, bricklayer suffered numerous injuries, including a fractured heel, in a construction accident. John Mazzorana, 38, sued Emil Perrotta Co. for leaving an unsupported walking plank on a scaffold, leading to his serious injuries. When Mazzorana stepped on the plank, he fell 30 feet. As a result, he can no longer work as a bricklayer.
The jury awarded $4 million for the injuries, $2 million for pain and suffering, $1.65 million in lost wages, $500,000 for deformity and $226,000 for medical care. They found Emil Perrotta 50% liable, with the other 50% liability being assigned to Hawk Construction. Since Mazzorana filed a workers’ compensation claim against Hawk Construction, he did not sue the company.
Under Indiana law, defendants only pay the percentage of responsibilities assigned by the jury. Thus, Mazzorana will only receive 50% of his damages. Had the case been tried under Illinois law, he would have recovered 100% of the damages. Illinois law requires defendants to pay the entire award as long they are found at least 25% liable.
If you experience a construction work accident in Chicago, or anywhere in Illinois, you should hire an experienced Chicago Injury Lawyer. You can obtain the benefit of a full monetary damage recovery should a jury find a defendant at least 25% liable. Jackowiak Law Offices will fight to ensure your maximum recovery. Contact the experienced Chicago injury lawyers of Jackowiak Law Offices today for a free consultation. Our Illinois personal injury attorneys specialize in all kinds of accidents, including construction accidents.