Hit by Passing Vehicles: Options for Chicago Roadside Construction Workers

Roadside construction workers are constantly suffering serious injuries caused by passing motorists. Responsible drivers slow down when approaching construction zones, but there are always a few who speed through with no regard for human safety. Some of these collisions have proven fatal, leaving families with grief, medical bills, and lost income. If you find yourself in this situation, consider filing a workers’ compensation claim in Chicago.

What Kind of Vehicle Hit You? 

After an accident of this nature, you should determine what kind of vehicle struck you. Was it a car driven by an average Chicago resident? If so, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them. In some situations, this can provide more compensation than a workers’ compensation claim. This is because a personal injury lawsuit has the potential to cover 100% of your lost income – plus non-economic damages. Non-economic damages include issues like depression, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress.

On the other hand, you might have been struck by a construction vehicle. If this vehicle was owned and operated by your direct employer, you may be limited to a workers’ compensation claim. Rest assured that this option should still provide plenty of compensation, covering a portion of your lost income and 100% of your medical expenses.

If the construction vehicle was owned and operated by a third-party contractor, a personal injury lawsuit could be possible. Employment laws in Illinois only prevent you from suing your direct employer. For example, you might have been working for a local construction contractor in Chicago when the accident happened. If you were struck and injured by a vehicle operated by a trucking company, you could potentially sue that trucking company instead of (or in addition to) filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Who Was Driving the Vehicle? 

You might also need to consider who was driving the vehicle. If the person who struck you lacks insurance or is underinsured, there might not be much point in suing them directly. Perhaps the individual was driving a stolen car, and they have virtually no assets. In this case, it probably makes more sense to file a workers’ compensation claim for more reliable coverage.

This logic also applies to hit-and-runs, which are quite common in roadside construction collisions. If the driver fled the scene and the police cannot locate them, workers’ comp offers a reliable source of financial support – even if you never locate the person responsible for your injuries.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago Help My Family? 

If a roadside construction project caused you to suffer serious injuries, consider speaking with an experienced workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago. Depending on your circumstances, it may be possible to pursue compensation from various sources. Connolly Injury Law has experience with both workers’ comp and personal injury, and this law firm can guide you toward positive outcomes. Book your consultation today to learn more.

Sources:

 abc7chicago.com/post/skokie-crash-car-crashes-public-works-machine-golf-road-worker-injured-police-say/15755195/

idot.illinois.gov/travel-information/roadway-information/work-zones.html