Construction Accidents

When it comes to construction accidents, understanding the nuances of filing a claim is crucial. In Illinois, the legal framework surrounding construction accident claims is designed to ensure that injured workers receive the compensation they deserve. Whether you’re dealing with a minor injury or a life-altering incident, knowing how to navigate the claims process can greatly impact the outcome of your case.

Navigating construction accident claims can be complex, and having a skilled attorney can make a significant difference. A specialized construction accident personal injury attorney will have the experience and knowledge required to assess your situation, gather essential evidence, and advocate for your rights effectively. Whether dealing with insurance companies or representing you in court, an attorney plays a crucial role in seeking justice and fair compensation.

Selecting the right legal representation is crucial for the success of your claim. If you’re located near Chicago or Burr Ridge, you have access to several experienced personal injury attorneys who specialize in construction accidents. A local attorney, like Vinkler Law, will understand the specific regulations and laws in Illinois, ensuring that no aspect of your claim is overlooked. We have over 30 years of experience with a proven track record in handling construction accident cases and offer personalized attention to your unique situation.

It’s important to note, too, that there is a statute of limitations on any personal injury claims in Illinois, including construction site injuries. Generally, you have two years to file a claim.

The first thing we tell our clients to do after a construction site accident is to take care of themselves. That includes getting the medical attention you need. Too often, people delay care because they are afraid of the medical bills. Or, they shake it off, saying that they feel fine, only to feel worse the next day. So please, see a doctor or go to an emergency room or urgent care, and get your injuries documented. It’s the best first step you can make – for your health and for your legal case.

The next step is to reach out to the construction accident attorneys at Vinkler Law. As mentioned above, your statute of limitations runs out in two years. However, the earlier you contact an injury lawyer, the more likely you are to win your case. Evidence and witnesses can disappear quickly. We’ll get to work immediately, including:

• Gathering evidence including photos, witness statements, and accident reports
• Filing your claim and/or issuing a complaint
• Arranging investigations and expert testimony, and evaluations
• Preparing your case for mediation or trial while negotiating a settlement

The vast majority of cases are settled out of court. The more information we have, the faster and more likely it is that you’ll win your case – and the more likely you’ll get a higher settlement.

Vinkler Law will do everything we can to ensure you get the compensation you deserve to cover your medical bills, lost work, and pain and suffering.

Construction sites can be hazardous workplaces, which is why OSHA and other regulations are in place to keep employees safe. But if your employer, the developer, the contractor, or some other person or company causes you injury through their negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Here are some common construction accident types we handle:

Construction sites are complex, dynamic work environments. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye – and there may be many people at fault. Vinkler Law will help you understand your rights, review your case for free, and let you know if you should be seeking compensation for your injuries.

Your most important first step after a construction accident is to seek medical care. This is the best way to increase your chances of full recovery. It’s also important for documenting your injuries. Write down your own recollection of the accident, what your doctor or other healthcare providers said about your injury, any medications you were given, any diagnostic imaging you had (X-ray, MRI, CT scans, etc.), and other treatments such as bandages or casts, etc.

Once your injury has been treated, report the incident to your employer, OSHA, and/or your onsite safety officers.

Also, preserve any other evidence you may have including photos of your injuries, you clothing, your safety logs, and the contact info for any witnesses you remember being on the scene.

Most importantly, do not sign any documents or speak to any insurance companies without first contacting a reputable Chicago construction accident attorney such as Vinkler Law. People will rush to get you to sign away your claims as soon as they can. By talking with Vinkler Law first, you’re not just protecting your claim for compensation; you’re protecting your rights.

Contact us right now before you sign away your rights. We’ll give you a free case review to see if you have a claim.

When you suffer an injury on a construction site, your health and safety should be your foremost focus. Prompt medical attention is crucial not only for your personal well-being but also for the documentation of your injuries, which is essential for any subsequent claims. By prioritizing medical attention, you not only pave the way for a swift recovery but also lay the groundwork for a strong accident claim. Remember, any delay in treatment can be used against you in claims, as it might imply that your injuries were not severe or that they occurred in a different context.

After ensuring you have received the necessary medical attention, the next critical step is to report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This report should be made in writing to create a documented record of the incident. Most workplaces have specific procedures for reporting workplace accidents, often including designated forms or protocols. Make sure you follow these guidelines thoroughly.

Finally, some accidents must be reported to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This is especially true if the accident resulted in hospitalization, loss of consciousness, or a fatality. Familiarize yourself with the circumstances under which OSHA must be notified to ensure compliance with federal safety regulations.

By promptly reporting the accident, you help to establish a clear timeline and credible account of the event, which is vital for any formal claims or investigations that may follow. It also reinforces your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment for yourself and your colleagues.

Collecting evidence is a crucial step in strengthening your construction accident claim. Accurate and comprehensive evidence can significantly bolster your case, providing a clear picture of what transpired and supporting your version of events. Here’s how you can effectively gather necessary evidence:

• Photographic Documentation: Use your smartphone or a camera to photograph the accident scene, ensuring you capture multiple angles. Focus on any visible hazards, equipment involved, and environmental conditions that may have contributed to your accident. Also, take photos of your injuries to document their severity and progression.
• Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses present during the accident, their accounts can be invaluable. Collect contact information from these individuals and encourage them to provide written or recorded statements detailing what they observed. Witness testimonies can provide an objective perspective and further substantiate your claim.
• Maintain a Personal Record: Keep a personal journal detailing your recollections of the accident. Write down your version of events as soon as possible while your memory is still fresh. Include details such as the date, time, location, and any contributing factors you noticed.
• Preserve Physical Evidence: If possible, secure any physical evidence related to the accident.

Once you’ve gathered the necessary evidence, consulting with a knowledgeable construction accident personal injury attorney is a pivotal next step. An experienced attorney can evaluate the details of your case, guide you on the best course of action, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

A personal injury attorney with expertise in construction accidents will conduct a thorough analysis of your claim. They will:

It’s impossible to predict how much any given case is worth. It depends on many factors, including medical costs, future care, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The level of negligence displayed by one or more parties directly or indirectly responsible for your injuries may play a part, too. Vinkler Law has successfully negotiated settlements into the millions on behalf of our clients. Contact Vinkler Law to find out more.

It’s tempting to think about. With our decades of knowledge and experience negotiating settlements, Vinkler Law will likely get you much more than an insurance company’s initial offer. The reality is that self-representation almost always ensures a lower settlement. Besides, we don’t get paid until you do, so you have nothing to risk and nothing to lose.

There isn’t any set timeline for your case to be resolved. Usually, it takes years, though some are settled within a few months. Cases that go to trial tend to take long than cases that are settled out of court.

Regardless of timelines, Vinkler Law keeps you in the loop so you know exactly where we are in the process. You’ll know everything we’ll know.

If you have a case, reputable construction accident attorneys won’t charge you anything up front. Vinkler Law works under a system of contingency fees, which means we don’t get paid until you do. We also cover all expenses related to filing your claim, investigations, expert witness testimony, and other fees until you win your case.

The sooner the better. First, there is a two-year statute of limitations on your case in Illinois. But don’t wait that long. Precious evidence and witness testimony that could help you case can disappear over time. The general rule of thumb is: first, get treated for your injuries. Then, call the Chicago construction accident lawyers at Vinkler Law.

You don’t have to face this alone. Let our Illinois medical malpractice lawyers fight for you.