Recent Workplace Accidents in Chicago Cause Injuries and Near-Misses

Recent workplace incidents in Illinois and Chicago have injured or endangered numerous workers. Whether you’re a convenience store worker or a construction laborer, you face various hazards every time you clock in. Contact an experienced Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer if you are struggling to access your benefits after an injury.

Yet Another Workplace Shooting Leaves Chicago Worker Injured

On July 18th, 2026, Fox 32 Chicago reported that a convenience store worker had been shot by a robber. The incident occurred in the area of Bronzeville, and police say that the robber demanded money before opening fire on the 42-year-old worker. After the attack, the suspect fled the scene.

The worker suffered a single gunshot wound in the arm, and first responders described his injury as “fair.” Although this individual might have survived the attack, he will likely struggle with psychological issues such as PTSD for the foreseeable future. One can only hope that he is able to take some time off and file a valid workers’ compensation claim.

Workplace shootings in Chicago and Illinois are far too common. While thieves and other criminals often carry out these attacks, co-workers also tend to fire upon each other. Shootings seem to be particularly common at Amazon warehouses across the nation.

Construction Worker Stranded 130 Feet in the Air After Boom Lift Malfunction

On July 21st, CBS News reported that an Illinois construction worker had become stranded when his boom lift malfunctioned 130 feet in the air. The worker found himself trapped inside an elevated sign for three hours before first responders managed to rescue him.

There were no ladders or stairs, and the worker had no choice but to sit inside the sign and wait for help. Needless to say, this accident could have been much worse. Boom lifts are responsible for countless injuries and deaths in the construction industry.

Can You File a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Near-Miss?

You must establish that you suffered some kind of physical injury in order to file a valid workers’ compensation claim in Chicago. A near-miss with no physical injury wouldn’t be “compensable” under this system. That being said, you may have suffered injuries without realizing it during a near-miss.

For example, the worker who was recently stuck inside a sign might have suffered sprains or strains after spending hours in an uncomfortable position. Perhaps he scraped his arms or bruised his legs during his rescue. Consider seeing a doctor after a near-miss to rule out any subtle, minor injuries.

Can a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me? 

A Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help if you need to access benefits for your recent workplace injury. The workers’ comp program helps you cover missed wages, medical bills, vocational rehabilitation, and more. If you lost a family member in a fatal workplace incident, you are eligible to pursue lucrative death benefits. Contact Connolly Injury Law at 312-626-5328 for further guidance.

Sources:

 fox32chicago.com/news/bronzeville-robbery-shooting-7-18

cbsnews.com/chicago/news/contractor-rescued-from-highway-wilmington/