Can Roofers Sue After Workplace Injuries in Chicago?

Roofing is one of the most dangerous trades in the United States. A string of recent roofing accidents in Chicago has brought attention to this issue, and roofers should be aware of their rights after becoming injured. Can you sue as an injured roofer in Chicago? Or is a workers’ compensation claim a more appropriate option? The answer to this question depends entirely on your unique situation.

Two Recent Accidents Show How Dangerous Roofing in Chicago Has Become

In July of 2025, two major roofing accidents in Chicago occurred. The first incident happened in the northwest suburbs of McHenry County, and it left one worker critically injured. This individual fell from a second-story roof before impacting the ground, and he was subsequently airlifted to the nearest hospital by first responders.

Authorities did not reveal how this accident occurred, although it seems clear that this individual could not have been wearing fall protection.

A few weeks later, a similar incident occurred in Little Village. This accident left two workers injured, and they both fell from the same roof. Authorities did not reveal how far they fell, but both suffered blunt-force trauma. First responders rushed them to the nearest hospital in “serious condition.” Both victims were 24 years old, and it is not clear how they fell. However, it is once again safe to assume that neither was wearing fall protection.

Could a Roofing Accident Lead to a Lawsuit? 

A roofing accident could theoretically lead to a lawsuit, although it is important to remember that workers are normally prohibited from suing their own employers. The workers’ comp system means that instead of suing a direct employer, an injured worker typically files a no-fault claim for lost wages and medical expenses.

That said, roofers can potentially sue their direct employers after accidents involving gross or reckless negligence. This type of negligence verges on criminal behavior, and it might involve blatant and extremely dangerous safety violations. For example, the lack of proper fall protection could potentially lead to a direct lawsuit.

Workers can also sue third parties for causing their injuries. This might be a third-party contractor or even a property owner.

Key Takeaways 

• Roofing is one of the most dangerous trades in the United States
• Two recent roofing accidents in Chicago show how hazardous this work can be
• Injured workers may be able to sue in certain situations

Should I Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago?

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago may be able to provide meaningful assistance in many situations. You might want to consult with one of these legal professionals to determine whether a lawsuit is possible. If not, you should still have the opportunity to file a workers’ compensation claim instead. Workers’ comp lawyers can also help if your claim has already been denied by the workers’ compensation board. Contact Connolly Injury Law today for more information.

Sources: 

abc7chicago.com/post/workers-injured-falling-little-village-building-2600-block-millard-avenue-chicago-police-say/17194073/

fox32chicago.com/news/roofing-employee-critically-injured-after-fall-from-second-story-roof-northwest-suburbs-officials