Chicago Crane Accident Brings Up Questions About Construction Accident Injury Liability

 Posted on October 13, 2021 in Workers’ Compensation

In the busy city of Chicago, there are always construction projects going on. New buildings are erected while others are torn down. Structures are repaired and updated. Because construction sites are so dangerous, they are subject to strict laws and regulations. However, construction accidents can and do occur.

On October 6, 2021, a large crane collapsed mere feet from a residential building. Fortunately, no one was injured. However, the crane accident is a glaring reminder of the danger large construction equipment can pose to workers and non-workers alike.

Crane Collapse Forces Chicago Residents to Evacuate

Construction equipment can weigh hundreds of thousands of pounds. When large equipment like this fails, the results can be catastrophic. The crane collapse that occurred recently in Chicago left more than 100 residents without power and crushed several vehicles. Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) lines were also temporarily closed but service has now been restored. At this time, investigators do not know what caused the crane to tip over, but everyone is thankful that the unexpected accident did not result in severe injuries or deaths.

Understanding Liability for Construction Accidents

While most construction sites are safe, equipment malfunctions, trench collapses, falling debris, electrocutions, and other unexpected construction accidents can occur. When a construction accident causes someone to be injured or killed, the injured person or family of the deceased person may have several legal options. Often, workers’ compensation insurance covers costs resulting from worker injuries and deaths. However, if a third party such as a contractor or property owner acted negligently and caused the accident, that party may also be liable for damages. Through a third-party claim, the injured worker may be entitled to compensation for his or her full lost income, medical expenses, and non-economic damages like physical pain and emotional suffering. Non-workers may be entitled to sue the construction company, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or other liable parties and recover damages as well.

Contact a Wheaton Construction Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one were hurt in a construction accident, contact the Lake County construction accident injury attorneys at Salvi & Maher, LLP for help. Our team can help you understand all of your legal options and determine the best way to pursue financial compensation for your damages. You may be able to recover compensation for lost income, medical expenses, property damage, non-economic damages, and more. Call us today at 847-662-3303 for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn more.

Source:

https://abc7chicago.com/cta-bryn-mawr-crane-collapse-chicago/11093561/