Being in a construction accident can cause serious injuries that prevent you from returning to work and earning a living. You might be unable to handle these expenses, and you should hire a lawyer to help you. You may be entitled to significant financial compensation.
If you are injured in a construction accident, call 911 immediately and get emergency medical attention. You should also consider reporting the accident to the police, especially if your injuries are severe. When you are ready, call a lawyer who can help you initiate legal action. We need to gather evidence, such as security footage, witness testimony, and medical records, as soon as possible to build your case.
Call Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 and ask our construction accident lawyers for a free, private case review.
What Should I Do After Being Injured in a Construction Accident?
After a construction accident, you or someone at the scene should call 911 for help. Contact a lawyer for help after you have received treatment.
Get Emergency Medical Attention
Your top priority should be getting urgent medical care. Construction accidents can be severe, and you may need immediate care. Even if you do not think your injuries are that bad, they should be evaluated by a doctor right away.
Report the Accident
You should consider reporting the accident to the authorities. The police may want to investigate, especially if the accident was quite shocking or caused severe injuries. You may also report the accident to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a federal agency responsible for enforcing things like construction safety regulations.
Call a Lawyer
Call a lawyer shortly after you get medical care. You may have high medical costs and other expenses to pay, and you might be unable to work and earn the income you need to stay afloat. Your lawyer should review all your legal options and help you decide what to do. They can help you file insurance claims, lawsuits, or seek other legal options.
What Proof Do I Need in a Construction Accident Case in Evanston, IL?
We need sufficient evidence to establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant is liable for the accident. Meeting this burden of proof will not be easy, and we need all the evidence we can get.
Security Footage
Many construction sites have security cameras. Accidents are often caught on camera, and the videos may reveal details we might not otherwise know. Our construction accident lawyers will act quickly. The defendant may have control over these videos, and we must make sure we get them before they can be accidentally deleted.
Witnesses
People who saw the accident occur may be able to testify as witnesses. Your coworkers, other contractors or subcontractors on the construction site, and anyone else who might have seen the accident could potentially testify to support your claims.
Medical Records
We should also have your medical records related to the treatment for your injuries. These records can help us prove how badly you were injured and the cost of treatment. This information is necessary for us to establish your damages.
FAQs About Suing for Construction Accidents in Evanston, IL
Should I Call the Police After a Construction Accident?
Yes. While construction accidents do not necessarily constitute a crime, those responsible may sometimes be criminally charged. The police may need to investigate the accident to determine if anyone is criminally responsible, and we may use evidence they uncover in your civil lawsuit.
Do I Need to Sue for My Injuries from a Construction Accident in Evanston, IL?
Possibly. You might have more than a few legal options after a construction accident, and you should seek help from an attorney to determine what works best for your situation. You may be able to sue the person or people responsible for the accident. For some, this could be the only feasible option.
Can I File an Insurance Claim After a Construction Accident?
Possibly. You may have some insurance options depending on what kind of coverage you have. You may be able to file claims with your employer’s insurance. If you are an independent contractor, you might purchase your own insurance. Even so, insurance might not cover everything if your injuries are severe, and you may need to sue for all your damages.
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer After a Construction Accident in Evanston, IL?
Yes. Your attorney should explain your legal options to you so you can make a more informed decision about what to do. They can also help you determine how much compensation you are entitled to, where to find evidence, and how to deal with complex legal procedures.
What Are My Claims Worth in a Construction Accident Case?
Your claims may be worth thousands of dollars or more. Between medical bills and lost income from being unable to work, you may claim significant compensation. Those who cannot work for several months or more might claim tens of thousands of dollars. Especially serious injuries might be worth over six figures.
What is the Statute of Limitations for Construction Accidents in Evanston, IL?
In Illinois, personal injury lawsuits for things like construction accidents must be filed no later than 2 years after the date of the accident. If a plaintiff does not file their case within the limitation period, they may be unable to do so, and the court may dismiss their case if they try to file it too late.
What Do I Do if My Employer Asks Me Not to Tell Anyone About a Construction Accident?
Some injured workers report that their employers ask them not to involve the authorities or attorneys. They might want you to keep quiet about the accident so they avoid penalties or legal liability. You should always contact an attorney for help. It is imperative that you protect your rights if you are injured.
Can I Accept a Settlement for a Construction Accident?
Yes. If the defendant in your lawsuit would rather settle out of court, they may offer a private settlement. Your attorney can help you negotiate for the best possible settlement, although you should be prepared to compromise on some damages. Remember, you are free to reject a settlement if you would rather have a trial.
Speak to Our Construction Accident Attorneys in Evanston, IL for Help
Call Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502 and ask our construction accident lawyers for a free, private case review.
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