Pursuing Workers’ Compensation After a Scaffolding Collapse in Chicago

One of the most dangerous accidents that can possibly occur at a construction site is a scaffolding collapse. Unfortunately, this type of accident is also relatively common – and it has claimed numerous lives in Chicago over the years. What can you do after suffering injuries in a scaffolding collapse? What if this accident claimed the life of your family member? Can a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer help you cover your bills?

How Does a Scaffolding Collapse Occur? 

A scaffolding collapse can occur for various reasons. First, workers must assemble these structures carefully. While they feature locking mechanisms that are easy to understand, errors during the construction process can make the entire structure unstable.

Workers also need to carefully monitor the weight capacities of scaffolding. These structures may not be able to hold numerous workers, equipment, and tools. If scaffolding is overloaded by negligent contractors, a collapse is inevitable. Inclement weather might also pose an issue, making collapses more likely.

Even if the scaffolding itself does not collapse, accidents are still possible. For example, a worker might fall off the scaffolding due to insufficient guardrails or non-existent fall protection. Again, this type of error is usually made by contractors and safety officials at construction sites.

Scaffolding Accidents Are Often Fatal 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 60 people die after falling off scaffolds each year. This accounts for about a quarter of all fatal falls in the construction industry. A scaffolding collapse can also endanger workers on foot down below, as the collapsing components can crush these individuals.

What Can I Do After a Scaffolding Accident? 

If you’re struggling with injuries after a scaffolding accident, you should seek treatment as soon as possible. Accept assistance from first responders at the construction site and allow them to transport you to a nearby hospital. Medical assistance is crucial for various reasons. First, it ensures the best possible health outcomes. Secondly, it makes filing a claim possible at a later date. If you lack medical records that prove your injury is work-related, it may be difficult to pursue compensation.

If your loved one died due to a fatal scaffolding accident, you can also file a workers’ compensation claim. You can pursue “death benefits,” which can provide compensation for funeral expenses, unpaid medical bills, and lost future income. Death benefits are particularly important for the surviving dependents of the victim, such as small children, spouses, or seniors.

Can a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help? 

If a scaffolding collapse harmed you or someone you love, a workers’ comp lawyer in Chicago may be able to help. This type of accident can be devastating, and you have every right to consider your legal options in the aftermath. The workers’ comp program in Illinois can cover medical bills, missed future wages, funeral expenses, and other damages. To learn more about the next steps, contact Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources:

 osha.gov/sites/default/files/notes.pdf

bls.gov/web/osh/summ1_00.htm