Naperville Construction Accident Lawyer
Working on a construction site can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. However, a construction site can be a truly dangerous environment that is filled with many different ways to be injured or even killed in extreme worst-case scenarios. If you ever find yourself injured on a construction site, it is vital that you take the necessary steps to protect yourself if you wish to pursue legal action. A Naperville construction accident lawyer can help you decide what to do next.
Legal Timeframes for Injuries on Illinois Construction Sites
Construction workers take considerable risks every day on their job site. Construction sites are often filled with dangerous equipment, uneven flooring, and various hazards that run the risk of injuring not just workers but also potential visitors or passersby. If the proper safety protocols are not followed, the result can be devastating.
If you are a construction worker who suffers an injury, you may qualify for workers’ comp under Illinois’s comprehensive Act. In addition, if you wish to file a claim for damages for a construction site injury, the statute of limitations in Illinois is four years. This means that you will have four years to:
- Start building a case.
- Gather the necessary evidence.
- Speak with a lawyer.
- File a claim for damages.
If you fail to file before these four years are up, your case may be thrown out.
How Do Construction Site Accidents Happen?
Any number of potential accidents can happen on a construction site, but some occur more frequently than others. Understanding the more common construction site accidents and their causes can help you avoid them in the future:
- Bad Falls: One of the leading causes of construction site accidents in the United States is falls. A bad fall can happen at any time and in any place, but they can be particularly deadly on construction sites. Many construction sites are high off the ground; if the construction site’s management has not provided their workers with adequate fall protection, the result can be catastrophic.
- Struck-By Accidents: Another common accident on construction sites is a struck-by accident. A struck-by accident occurs when a construction worker is accidentally hit by a falling mass, a swinging article, or a rolling item. The slightest mistake on a construction site can cause things to start moving out of control very quickly. If you are not careful, you could be seriously injured by an out-of-control object, especially if you are working at great heights.
- Electrocution: Electrocution accidents are one of the top causes of construction site accidents. There is often a lot of exposed wiring at these locations. The site may be under power lines, or the workers may be using damaged equipment. There are a lot of hazards that could lead to electrocution. Wires should be inspected daily to avoid the possibility of electrocution. If it does happen, be sure to call 911 immediately.
- Vehicular Accidents: Construction sites often use large vehicles that are necessary for the completion of the job. These vehicles, such as bulldozers, excavators, and steamrollers, may not handle as well as a standard car. It can be hard to control these machines if the driver has not had proper training. Accidents can happen, and it is important that you take precautions to avoid them, such as wearing bright clothing to be more easily seen by drivers.
FAQs
Q: How Do I Sue a Contractor in Illinois?
A: If you want to sue a contractor in Illinois, the first step is to seek out a lawyer who can help you determine an effective course of action for pursuing damages from this party. Your lawyer can file the proper documents in the right county, prepare a case against the contractor, and bring that case against them. Your lawyer can also advise you on the strength of your case and the repercussions it may have.
Q: What Is the Statute of Limitations for Construction Claims in Illinois?
A: The statute of limitations for construction claims in Illinois is four years. Therefore, you will have four years from the date of your injury or the date when you knew about a construction problem to start building a case, gather evidence, speak with a lawyer, and file a legal claim for damages. If you are unable to file before four years is up, your case may be thrown out, and your opportunity to seek damages may be gone.
Q: How Much Does a Lawyer Charge in Illinois?
A: A lawyer might charge a wide range in Illinois. Every case is different, and every lawyer’s fee is going to be different, too. A lawyer charges whatever they deem necessary for each case, taking into account many different factors that will influence the amount of work they have to do to successfully resolve it. These factors include the strength of the case, the lawyer’s experience and current caseload, and how many resources they will need to devote to it.
Q: Do I Need a Lawyer for My Construction Injury Case?
A: Technically, you do not need a lawyer for your construction injury case in Illinois. There is no law forcing you to hire a lawyer for your case. You are well within your rights to represent yourself and pursue damages on your own. However, it is recommended that you seek out a lawyer. Having someone on your side who understands the law can greatly improve the chances that you can meet your objectives for the claim.
Reach Out to a Construction Site Accident Lawyer Today
Getting injured on a construction site can be frustrating, painful, and overwhelming to deal with, especially if you are trying to pursue damages on your own without the help of an experienced lawyer. A construction accident lawyer can help you build a case to seek legal action against the party liable for your injury.
Connolly Injury Law understands the kind of legal assistance you need during this trying time. We can help you develop your case, gather the right types of evidence, and protect your interests throughout the duration of your case. Contact us to speak with a team member and schedule a consultation.
