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Filing for Workers’ Compensation After a Construction Site Accident in Chicago

Construction site accidents are among the leading causes of job-related injuries. In Chicago and other major cities across the country, construction workers in all trades and occupations face health and safety risks on a daily basis, and these risks frequently lead to traumatic injuries that require extensive medical treatment and a long-term recovery.

7 Important Considerations for Protecting Your Rights as an Injured Construction Worker

If you have been injured on a construction site in Chicago, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. You may also have a claim for personal injury damages. Regardless of what happened and how much you may be entitled to recover, here are seven important considerations for protecting your legal rights:

1. What were you doing when you were injured?

Were you using a ladder? Were you using a hand tool, power tool or piece of heavy equipment or machinery? Were you eating lunch? Workers’ compensation is a “no-fault” system; but, if a faulty ladder or piece of equipment caused your injury, you may be entitled to an additional financial recovery.

2. Was anyone else involved in the accident?

If someone else was involved in the accident, you may have a claim for full compensation against his or her employer. Contractors, subcontractors, delivery truck drivers, and others are routinely liable for construction site accidents.

3. Did any of your coworkers witness the accident?

The more evidence that is available, the better. If any of your coworkers witnessed the accident and can confirm your version of the events, this could help significantly in proving your claim for financial compensation.

4. What are your symptoms?

After a construction site accident, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. You should take the time to write down all of your symptoms so that your doctor can provide a comprehensive diagnosis. Some typical symptoms of traumatic injuries from falls, collisions, and other accidents include:

  • Abdominal, back or neck pain
  • Blurred vision
  • Bumps and bruises
  • Headaches
  • Limited mobility or sensation
  • Loss of muscle strength
  • Memory loss

5. Does your employer have an accident report form?

In order to file for workers’ compensation, you must report the accident to your employer within 45 days. If your employer has an accident report form, you can use this form to ensure that you submit the necessary information.

6. Does your employer have a Preferred Provider Program (PPP)?

If your employer has a Preferred Provider Program (PPP), you will need to see an approved doctor or take appropriate steps to opt out of the program. If you see an unapproved doctor without opting out, you could lose your claim for benefits.

7. How long has it been since the accident?

In most cases, filing for workers’ compensation as soon as possible is the best way to maximize your financial recovery. If it has been several days, weeks or months since your accident, you should speak with an attorney immediately.

Speak With a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Free

Were you injured on the job in Chicago? If so, we encourage you to contact us promptly for a free, no-obligation consultation about your legal rights. To find out if you are eligible for workers’ compensation – and to get the help you need to start collecting the benefits you deserve – call (312) 795-9595 or submit your case online now.