Pursuing Compensation for a Sidewalk Collapse in Chicago

In July of 2025, a construction worker was injured after a sidewalk collapse in downtown Chicago. This incident highlights not only the hazards associated with construction work, but also the threat of collapsing sidewalks in dense cities. If you have suffered a construction injury in Chicago, consider working with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer to pursue the financial assistance you deserve.

Worker Tumbles One Floor After Sidewalk Collapses Below Him 

According to MSN, the worker fell one story down after the sidewalk collapsed underneath him. The 49-year-old was operating a mechanical lift at the time, and the lift fell onto its side as the collapse occurred. First responders say that the worker suffered some kind of head injury, although he was in stable condition when they transported him to the nearest hospital.

Why Are Structural Collapses So Dangerous in the Construction Industry? 

Structural collapses are both common and dangerous in the construction industry. A relatively minor mistake can cause entire structures to come toppling down, often trapping or burying workers in the process. Although collapsing sidewalks are relatively rare, structures and equipment of all types can collapse and cause serious hazards for everyone in the vicinity.

Trench collapses can be particularly dangerous, as these incidents can bury workers in tons of dirt. After a collapse of this nature, it can be virtually impossible to free buried workers before they suffocate and die.

Scaffolding collapses are also quite common. These incidents involve scaffolding falling over, often sending workers falling to their deaths. Collapses may be caused by extreme weather, but human negligence is often to blame.

Cranes and other equipment can also collapse under the same circumstances. Again, human error is often responsible for these disasters. Even a slight miscalculation can cause cranes to become overloaded, sending them falling to the ground. Everyone working down below is vulnerable in these situations.

How Can Workers’ Comp Help?

Workers’ comp can help workers by providing them with financial support after a structural collapse at a construction site. This assistance can help cover missed wages and medical bills. In some cases, it might also cover vocational rehabilitation, allowing disabled workers to retrain and recertify for more appropriate career paths.

Key Takeaways 

• Although sidewalks might seem sturdy, they can collapse
• Structural collapses can bury workers, causing fatal injuries
• Construction accidents in Chicago can lead to valid workers’ comp claims

Why Hire a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Chicago? 

A workers’ comp lawyer in Chicago can help you fight for every penny you deserve after a structural collapse. The construction industry is more dangerous than many people realize, and workers deserve full compensation after accidents like structural collapses. If you need help with your claim, consider a consultation with Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources: 

msn.com/en-us/news/crime/construction-worker-injured-after-sidewalk-collapses-in-downtown-chicago/ar-AA1IuCa3?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1

cbsnews.com/chicago/video/worker-injured-after-falling-through-collapsed-sidewalk-in-the-loop/