Unique Hazards Faced by Auto Manufacturing Workers in Illinois
Recent changes in US politics have rekindled speculation about the auto manufacturing industry in Illinois. With the focus once again returning to “Made in America” products, many hope to see more auto manufacturing plants in Chicago and throughout the Prairie State. However, a surge in auto manufacturing capacity may also heighten hazards unique to this industry. What should you do if you were injured in an Illinois auto manufacturing accident?
Illinois Maintains a Strong Presence in the Auto Manufacturing Industry
Although it has declined in recent decades, Illinois still maintains a strong tradition of involvement in the auto manufacturing industry. Currently, it is home to auto manufacturing facilities for Rivian, Lion Electric, Stellantis, and Ford.
These activities could expand in the next few years. Shortly after recent political changes in the United States, Stellantis vowed to ramp up its auto manufacturing activities in Illinois. Stellantis is best known for manufacturing Chrysler, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Ram, and Maserati vehicles in the United States.
Auto Workers Face Unique Hazards in Illinois
The rush to expand manufacturing activities in Illinois has come at a cost. This year, auto manufacturing plants in the Prairie State were linked with several OSHA violations and at least one major fire. Autoblog reported 16 OSHA violations at one Illinois plant in 2024. These citations allegedly involved fractured skulls and amputated fingers – and they highlight how dangerous this work can be.
One worker at this plant reportedly started vomiting blue bile – the same color of the paint she was forced to use without a proper respirator. This plant was also associated with more OSHA citations than any other facility in the country, despite producing few vehicles than any other facility.
Also in 2024, Reuters reported that this same facility had caught fire. The report stated that many of the electric vehicles were damaged in the blaze, although no one was injured. Still one has to wonder whether any of the workers present inhaled toxic fumes. Electric vehicles are associated with higher levels of toxic fumes than other vehicles, primarily due to their battery packs.
This incident further highlights how dangerous auto manufacturing work can be. In the tight confines of a factory, it may be difficult to escape major fires. If manufacturing ramps up in Illinois over the next few years, these companies should strive to improve safety policies instead of cutting corners.
Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Illinois Help Me?
If you were injured as an auto manufacturing worker in Illinois, an experienced Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help. While many celebrate the prioritization of American-made vehicles, this manufacturing process must proceed in a safe way. Injured workers deserve compensation for various damages. Connolly Injury Law can help these employees cover medical expenses and lost earnings – so contact us today to get started.
Sources:
detroitnews.com/story/business/autos/chrysler/2025/01/22/stellantis-says-it-will-build-durango-in-detroit-pickup-in-illinois/77876842007/
autoblog.com/news/rivian-safety-osha-violations
reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/fire-rivians-illinois-plant-damages-multiple-evs-no-injuries-reported-2024-08-25/
