What is the most common accident involving scaffolds?
Falls from scaffolds are among the most common and serious scaffold accidents. A worker may fall from an elevated platform, through an unprotected opening, or when a scaffold shifts or collapses. Falling objects and unstable access points can also cause injuries. The facts of each incident matter, so an investigation should examine the scaffold, site conditions, safety practices, and responsible parties.
What is a major cause of scaffolding accidents?
Major causes can include inadequate fall protection, improper assembly, unstable or poorly maintained scaffolding, unsafe work-site conditions, and insufficient training or supervision. Equipment or safety failures may involve employers, contractors, property owners, manufacturers, or other parties. Determining the cause requires reviewing the site, identifying applicable responsibilities, preserving evidence, and understanding how the accident occurred.
Can I receive workers’ compensation after a scaffolding fall?
An injured employee may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits after a scaffolding fall, including coverage for work-related medical treatment and lost wages under applicable Illinois law. Workers’ compensation may apply even when the accident was not caused by an employer’s intentional conduct. A lawyer can also evaluate whether a separate third-party claim may exist against another responsible party.
Can I sue someone other than my employer for a scaffold accident?
Possibly. A third-party claim may be available when a contractor, subcontractor, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or another non-employer contributed to the accident. Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party case may allow recovery for damages such as pain and suffering when supported by the facts and applicable law. Identifying every responsible party requires a detailed investigation.
What should I do after a scaffolding accident?
Report the accident according to workplace procedures, seek appropriate medical attention, and document what happened while details are fresh. Keep medical records, photographs, witness information, and communications related to the incident. Avoid giving a recorded statement or accepting a settlement before understanding your rights. Prompt legal guidance can help preserve evidence and coordinate workers’ compensation and third-party claims.
How does Marker Law charge for scaffolding accident cases?
Marker Law handles these injury matters on a contingency fee basis: no recovery, no fee. The service catalog also states that consultations are free and clients have no upfront costs. The specific fee arrangement should be explained during the initial consultation, along with how any potential workers’ compensation and third-party claims may differ.
How long do scaffolding accident claims take?
The length of a scaffolding accident claim varies with the injury, medical treatment, investigation, number of potentially responsible parties, insurance issues, and whether litigation becomes necessary. Claims should not be rushed before the full impact of an injury is understood. Marker Law provides guidance through the process and communicates with clients about developments and legal options.
Does Marker Law handle scaffolding accidents throughout Illinois?
Marker Law represents injured construction workers throughout Illinois and is based in Naperville. The firm’s listed service areas include Naperville, Aurora, Wheaton, Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Lisle, Oswego, Romeoville, Downers Grove, DuPage County, Will County, Cook County, Kane County, Kendall County, the Chicagoland area, and Northern Illinois. Contact the firm to discuss your location and accident.