Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer

Fair Compensation for Injured Construction Workers in Chicago

Our Chicago construction accident lawyer team has spent years representing injured construction workers across the city. Chicago’s thriving construction industry fuels constant building and infrastructure projects, but every construction site carries serious risks. 

From scaffold falls to heavy equipment mishaps, a construction accident can leave you with devastating injuries, mounting medical expenses, and lost wages. 

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we’ve recovered millions for construction injury victims, negotiating for maximum compensation when construction companies fail to provide proper safety equipment, maintain safe conditions, and otherwise prevent workplace injuries in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 

We know the Chicago construction landscape, and we’re ready to make sure those responsible are held legally responsible for your losses. Book a free consultation today!

Construction Accident Settlements Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm

$11,000,000 – Fatal Roofer Fall in Downtown Chicago

Our client, Luis, was a 34-year-old roofer working on a Loop high-rise when he tragically fell through an uncovered opening meant for a skylight. The opening had been left unguarded despite OSHA requirements for covers or railings. Luis was known for his skill and work ethic, making his sudden death all the more devastating for his young family. The settlement reflected his age, projected lifetime earnings, and the irreplaceable loss suffered by his wife and children.

$10,500,000 – Electrical Burn Injury from Aerial Lift Contact

Marcus, a Chicago tradesman, was operating an aerial lift to install a sign outside a commercial building near O’Hare. While maneuvering, the lift contacted a live electrical line, causing severe electrical burns over much of his body. Multiple parties — including the subcontractor responsible for site safety and the utility company — failed to de-energize the line or enforce clearance distances. The life-altering nature of Marcus’s injuries, permanent work restrictions, and extensive medical care needs significantly impacted the case value.

$7,200,000 – Electrician Ladder Fall in West Side Warehouse Project

During a warehouse build-out in Chicago’s West Side industrial corridor, Daniel, an electrician, fell from an unsecured ladder while running electrical cable. The investigation revealed that the ladder lacked stabilization, and no fall protection was in place. Daniel sustained multiple fractures requiring surgeries and months of rehabilitation. The settlement considered his long-term mobility limitations, reduced earning capacity, and the clear evidence of safety violations.

$5,000,000 – Scaffold Collapse in Bronzeville Masonry Project

Anthony, a masonry laborer, was repairing brickwork on a multi-story apartment building in Bronzeville when the scaffold he was standing on collapsed. Our investigation uncovered that the scaffold had been improperly erected without stabilizing ties and lacked required inspections. Anthony did not survive the fall. The settlement accounted for the preventable nature of the accident, the emotional loss to his family, and the financial support they would no longer receive.

Why Choose Chicago Injury Center

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we have spent nearly 25 years fighting for construction accident victims and their families across Chicago. Our track record includes more than $490 million in verdicts and settlements for victims of workplace and construction accidents, and we are prepared to take on the most challenging cases, even against the largest construction companies and their insurers.

Our attorneys are recognized by the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Super Lawyers, and the American Association for Justice, reflecting our ability to secure top results. We have earned an AVVO rating of 10/10 and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau because we don’t just handle cases.

What sets us apart is our deep understanding of Illinois labor laws, OSHA safety regulations, and Cook County courtroom procedures. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for maximum compensation if the responsible parties refuse to pay what’s fair.

We’ve helped more than 5,000 clients navigate the aftermath of catastrophic injuries, wrongful death claims, and workers’ compensation disputes. When you work with us, you get a team that knows Chicago’s construction industry inside and out — from Loop high-rise projects to South Side industrial sites — and that is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case.

Types of Chicago Construction Accident Cases We Handle

• Scaffolding and ladder falls
• Crane accidents
• Forklift and heavy equipment accidents
• Trench collapses
• Electrocutions
• Excavation accidents
• Falling object injuries
• Road construction zone accidents
• Defective machinery and tool incidents

What Are the Most Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents in Chicago?

Construction accidents in Chicago happen on projects of every size — from high-rise builds in the Loop to roadwork in surrounding neighborhoods. These incidents often occur when job site safety protocols are ignored, equipment isn’t maintained, or workers are placed in hazardous situations without proper preparation. 

OSHA’s Fatal Four

Federal data shows that a handful of accident types account for most fatalities, with OSHA’s “Fatal Four” leading the list.

1. Falls remain the number one cause of fatalities, often from scaffolds, ladders, roofs, or unprotected edges. Winter ice and windy high-rise work increase the risk locally.
2. Struck-by objects include accidents involving falling tools, swinging cranes, moving vehicles, or flying debris — hazards amplified in tight city work zones.
3. Electrocutions occur when workers make contact with live electrical wires, overhead power lines, or defective equipment.
4. Caught-in/between incidents involve being crushed, pinned, or trapped between machinery, collapsing structures, or materials, which is common during demolition and excavation work.

Inadequate Safety Training

When workers are not given proper instruction on hazard recognition, equipment operation, or fall protection, the likelihood of serious accidents increases. Inexperienced workers may not know how to react in dangerous situations, and rushed orientations often skip critical OSHA-mandated safety topics.

Improperly Maintained or Defective Construction Equipment

Cranes, aerial lifts, forklifts, and power tools must be inspected and serviced regularly. Poor maintenance can lead to catastrophic failures, while defective equipment design or manufacturing can create hidden dangers even when used properly.

Negligent Supervision

Supervisors who fail to enforce safety rules, skip site inspections, or push crews to work faster at the expense of safety create conditions ripe for injury. On Chicago construction sites, this problem is often made worse by multiple contractors and subcontractors sharing responsibilities.

What Are the Most Common Construction Site Injuries?

Chicago construction site accidents can result in a wide range of serious harm, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from falls or being struck by falling debris.
• Spinal cord injuries that may cause paralysis.
• Amputations from crush incidents or machinery accidents.
• Severe burns from electrical contact or explosions.
• Fractures and internal bleeding from high-impact falls or struck-by accidents.
• Repetitive stress injuries from long-term overexertion on job sites.

Some injuries are permanently disabling, while others tragically lead to wrongful death claims for Chicago families.

What Damages Can Chicago Construction Accident Victim Recover?

After a construction accident in Chicago, you may be entitled to compensation through both workers’ compensation and third-party lawsuits. Recoverable damages can include:

• Medical expenses for immediate treatment and long-term care.
• Lost wages during recovery and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll.
• Disfigurement and loss of enjoyment of life.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits

Most Chicago construction workers are entitled to receive workers’ compensation insurance benefits without having to prove fault. These benefits are designed to cover the cost of necessary medical treatment, provide a portion of lost wages while you recover, and, if needed, pay for vocational rehabilitation so you can return to work or transition into a new role. 

Workers’ compensation can also provide permanent disability benefits if your injury results in lasting physical limitations. While the system is meant to be straightforward, disputes often arise over the severity of injuries, the length of recovery time, or the type of medical care required, which is why having legal representation early on can make a significant difference.

Third-Party Lawsuits

In many Chicago construction site accidents, someone other than your direct employer may share responsibility for what happened. This could include a subcontractor who created unsafe conditions, a property owner who failed to maintain the premises, or an equipment manufacturer that produced a defective machine. 

A third-party lawsuit allows you to seek damages beyond what workers’ compensation provides, such as full wage replacement, pain and suffering, loss of normal life, and other non-economic damages. 

Pursuing both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party lawsuit requires careful coordination to ensure your rights are protected and that you recover the maximum possible compensation from all responsible parties.

What Is the Average Construction Accident Payout in Chicago?

From what we’ve seen handling cases in Cook County, construction accident settlements vary greatly depending on the facts. Recent data by Law.com shows a median settlement of about $1.61 million and an average of $2.89 million, with outcomes ranging from $80,000 to more than $22.5 million.

Several factors can influence the value of a case, including the severity of the injuries, whether they result in permanent disability, the strength of the liability evidence, and whether there’s a viable third-party claim in addition to workers’ compensation. 

Cases involving catastrophic harm—such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death—tend to recover more, especially when the evidence shows clear violations of safety rules or dangerous job site conditions.

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we often exceed average settlement values by building strong, evidence-backed cases and preparing as though we’re heading to trial from day one. That level of preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and helps our clients recover the full amount they deserve.

Example Cases in Cook County Court

In Proviso Township, a 27-year-old maintenance worker was killed when a tractor-trailer rear-ended a tollway maintenance vehicle, causing it to strike him. The driver was found fully at fault for speeding, failing to slow in a construction zone, and not yielding to workers. The victim’s wife pursued damages for loss of society, pecuniary loss, and funeral expenses. A jury awarded her $22.52 million.

In Livingston County, a construction flagger suffered a below-the-knee leg amputation when a concrete cutter malfunctioned after the emergency stop button had been bypassed. The case focused on negligent training, supervision, and unsafe operation. After trial, the jury awarded $14.6 million, including damages for medical costs, disability, pain and suffering, and disfigurement.

Why You Need a Chicago Construction Accident Attorney

Navigating a construction accident case in Chicago can be far more complex than most injury claims. Many incidents involve overlapping workers’ compensation benefits and personal injury claims, meaning your recovery may come from both your employer’s insurance and a liable third party such as a general contractor, subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer. 

These cases often trigger OSHA investigations, where findings can strengthen your claim but also require careful handling to avoid giving insurers ammunition to limit your payout.

Our legal team is familiar with Cook County Circuit Court procedures and the defence tactics commonly used by Chicago construction companies and their insurers, from disputing the cause of your injuries to shifting blame onto the worker. We know how to counter these strategies with detailed evidence, expert testimony, and trial readiness that puts pressure on defendants to settle for full and fair compensation.

How Common Are Construction-Related Accidents in Chicago?

According to OSHA data for 2024 in the Chicago region, construction accidents continue to claim lives at an alarming rate. In just one year, there were at least 20 fatal incidents investigated, involving everything from falls from roofs and ladders to electrocutions, crush injuries, and struck-by accidents.

Some of the most tragic cases involved workers falling from unprotected roof edges onto concrete, being electrocuted while installing lighting or fiber optic lines, and being pinned by heavy equipment or tipped-over drums. Other fatalities occurred when employees were crushed between construction machinery, sustained severe injuries in transportation accidents, or fell into elevator shafts.

Where Do Construction Accidents Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Serious construction injuries and fatalities in Chicago tend to cluster in high-risk job site zones. The Loop sees frequent incidents on high-rise building projects, where work at significant heights exposes laborers to dangerous falls and falling object hazards. 

On the South Side, large industrial sites present risks from cranes, forklifts, and other heavy equipment. Meanwhile, the North Side is home to numerous road construction projects, where workers face dangers from traffic, trench collapses, and defective machinery.

What Laws Govern Construction Accident Claims in Chicago?

Construction accident claims in Chicago are governed by a mix of Illinois state laws, City of Chicago ordinances, and federal workplace safety standards. These laws determine how liability is established, what benefits Chicago construction workers may receive, and the safety measures employers must follow.

Key statutes and regulations include:

• Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305) – Outlines benefits for injured workers and limits when you can sue your employer.
• Illinois Occupational Safety & Health Act (820 ILCS 219) – Requires safe working conditions in line with OSHA standards.
• Chicago Building Code (Title 14A) – Establishes safety and construction requirements for all projects within the city.
• OSHA Construction Safety Standards (29 CFR Part 1926) – Federal rules covering fall protection, electrical safety, excavation, and more.
• Illinois Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/) – Holds property owners accountable for unsafe site conditions that cause injuries.

In addition to statutes and city ordinances, Illinois case law plays a significant role in shaping how construction accident claims are decided. For instance, in Calloway v. Bovis Lend Lease, Inc., 2013 IL App (1st) 112746, the Illinois Appellate Court addressed whether a general contractor could be held liable for injuries suffered by a subcontractor’s employee when a masonry wall collapsed at a Chicago construction site. 

The court found that the contractor’s retained control over site safety and failure to enforce OSHA regulations created a question of fact for the jury, allowing the injured worker’s negligence claim to proceed.

How Long Do I Have to File a Construction Accident Lawsuit in Chicago?

Time limits, known as statutes of limitations, determine how long you have to take legal action after a construction accident. Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation entirely.

Third-Party Lawsuits

Under the Illinois Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against a negligent third party, such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner. 

Workers’ Compensation Claims

For workers’ comp cases, 820 ILCS 305/6(d) requires you to file your claim within three years of the injury date, or two years from the last payment of benefits, whichever is later. This applies even if the construction employee is still receiving medical treatment.

Fatal Accident Claims

If a loved one is killed in a construction accident, the Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) gives surviving family members two years from the date of death to bring a claim. These cases can involve both wrongful death damages and survival actions for the pain and suffering experienced before death.

Who Is Legally Liable for Injuries Sustained on Construction Job Sites in Chicago?

When a serious injury happens on a construction site, determining who is legally responsible is rarely straightforward. In Chicago, liability can extend well beyond the injured worker’s direct employer. Potentially liable parties include:

• Property Owners – Can be liable if dangerous conditions on their land contributed to the construction accident, especially if they failed to maintain a safe environment or warn about known hazards to protect workers.
• General Contractors – Often hold primary responsibility for ensuring compliance with safety regulations, supervising work, and addressing risks on the construction site. Neglecting these duties can result in liability.
• Subcontractors – When their crews or work methods create unsafe conditions or directly cause an accident, subcontractors can share financial responsibility for injuries.
• Equipment Manufacturers – If a construction accident injury results from defective construction equipment—such as malfunctioning forklifts, unsafe scaffolding, or faulty power tools—the manufacturer may face a product liability claim.
• Engineers and Architects – May be accountable if their designs create unsafe structures or if they fail to address safety issues during site inspections.
• Negligent Third-Party Drivers – In road construction site accidents, drivers who ignore traffic control devices or speed through work zones can be sued for the harm they cause to workers.

Common Defenses in Chicago Construction Accident Cases

Defendants in construction accident claims often rely on familiar strategies to avoid paying fair compensation. 

Comparative negligence is one of the most common, with defense counsel arguing that the injured worker’s own actions contributed to the incident. Others raise the “assumption of risk” defense, claiming the hazards were an accepted part of construction work. Employers and insurers may also try to invoke the exclusive remedy provision of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act to block third party claims. 

As seasoned Chicago construction accident attorneys, we counter these tactics with OSHA compliance records, accident reconstruction experts, and industry safety standards to prove that the real cause lies in preventable lapses such as defective construction equipment, unsafe site conditions, or negligent supervision.

How to Strengthen Your Construction Injury Claim in Chicago

The steps taken immediately after a construction site accident can significantly impact the value of a future construction site injury case. Here’s what to do to ensure the best possible outcome in your construction injury case: 

• Get Immediate Medical Attention – Ensures your health and documents injuries right away, creating a strong link between the accident and your medical condition.
• Report the Accident Promptly – Notifying a supervisor or construction site manager as soon as possible helps create an official incident record.
• Preserve Evidence – Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, equipment involved, and any visible injuries.
• Collect Witness Information – Names and contact details of co-workers or bystanders can be crucial if disputes arise later.
• Avoid Recorded Statements to Insurers – Insurance adjusters may use your statements to minimize your claim; have your Chicago construction accident lawyer handle all communications.

How a Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer Can Help

Recovering from a construction accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re facing medical bills, lost income, and uncertainty about your future. As experienced Chicago construction accident lawyers, we guide injured workers through every stage of the legal process—from the first investigation to the final resolution—so they can focus on healing. 

Our approach combines in-depth knowledge of Illinois labor and safety laws, strategic case preparation, and a willingness to fight aggressively in court when necessary.

Thorough Investigation of the Accident

We start by conducting a comprehensive investigation, which often includes visiting the construction site, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing safety records. Our goal is to uncover exactly how the accident happened and identify all potentially liable parties.

OSHA Compliance Review

Many construction accidents stem from violations of OSHA safety regulations. We examine site practices, training records, and inspection reports to determine whether safety standards were ignored or improperly followed.

Expert Witness Coordination

Complex construction accident claims often require testimony from engineers, safety experts, or medical professionals. We work with top experts to explain how the incident occurred, the extent of your injuries, and the long-term impact on your ability to work.

Strategic Insurance Negotiations

Insurance companies frequently try to minimize payouts in construction accident cases. We handle all communications and negotiations with the workers’ compensation insurer and other insurance adjusters to ensure settlement offers reflect the full value of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Aggressive Courtroom Representation

If negotiations fail, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have a track record of success in Cook County Circuit Court, using persuasive evidence, expert testimony, and a deep understanding of Illinois construction law to secure the financial compensation you deserve.

FAQs

Can I sue my employer for a construction accident injury?

Generally, Illinois law requires injured workers to seek recovery through the workers’ compensation system when the employer is at fault. However, if another party—such as a subcontractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—contributed to your injury, you may also have grounds for a third-party lawsuit. We carefully evaluate each case to determine all possible sources of recovery.

Can multiple parties be liable for my injury?

Yes. Under the Illinois Joint Tortfeasor Contribution Act (740 ILCS 100/), fault can be shared among several negligent parties. In a Chicago construction site injury case, liability might extend to property owners, general contractors, subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or even third-party drivers at road construction sites. Our team works to identify every potentially responsible party so you can pursue the full scope of available damages.

What if I was partially at fault for my construction accident?

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. If you were less than 51% at fault, you may still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. We build strong evidence to minimize any fault assigned to you and maximize your recovery.

How much does a construction accident attorney cost in Chicago?

At our firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront legal fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation on your behalf, whether through settlement or verdict. This arrangement allows victims to pursue justice without worrying about the financial burden of hourly legal costs.

Contact a Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer Near You!

If you’ve been hurt in a construction accident, you deserve a legal team that will fight for full and fair compensation. For over two decades, we have helped injured workers across Chicago recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.

Our Chicago personal injury lawyers handle every case on a no-fee-unless-we-win basis, meaning construction workers face no financial risk when hiring us. Your case begins with a free consultation, where we’ll review the details, explain your legal rights, and outline a strategy tailored to your situation.

Call us today at (888) 424-5757 or contact us online to speak directly with an experienced Chicago construction accident lawyer who understands the challenges you’re facing and knows how to win.

Our downtown office, near the Richard J. Daley Center, Dirkson United States Courthouse, and the Chicago Workers’ Compensation Commission, offers convenient access from Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan via I-90, I-94, and I-290.

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

225 W Wacker Dr #1660
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (847) 835-8895
Toll Free: (888) 424-5757

Resources: [1] OSHA, [2] BLS,

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.