Construction Workers’ Compensation Issues in Chicago and Suburban Illinois
Construction work is consistently ranked among the most dangerous occupations in the United States, and Chicago construction workers face serious risks every day on job sites throughout the city and surrounding suburbs. Each year, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that construction accidents remain among the most frequent and severe workplace injuries nationwide. From falls and struck-by accidents to heavy equipment and scaffolding injuries, the hazards on construction sites are well known.
Because construction work is inherently dangerous, it is critical for Illinois construction workers to understand whether they are protected by workers’ compensation if they are injured on the job. Whether you are working in downtown Chicago, on the North or South Side, or on a project in the suburbs, knowing your coverage status can make a major difference after an injury. If you have questions, you should contact an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to help.
Major Chicago Construction Companies and Job Sites
Chicago and the surrounding metropolitan area are home to some of the largest and busiest construction firms in the Midwest. Workers on projects involving these companies—along with countless subcontractors—face demanding physical conditions year-round.
Prominent construction firms operating in Chicago and suburban Illinois include:
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James McHugh Construction Co.
https://www.jamesmchugh.com -
Power Construction
https://www.powerconstruction.net -
Pepper Construction
https://www.pepperconstruction.com -
Walsh Construction
https://www.walshgroup.com -
Turner Construction (Chicago Office)
https://www.turnerconstruction.com -
Clark Construction Group (Midwest/Chicago)
https://www.clarkconstruction.com -
Skender
https://skender.com -
Gilbane Building Company
https://www.gilbaneco.com
These companies manage large projects throughout Chicago, as well as nearby communities such as Oak Brook, Naperville, Schaumburg, Rosemont, Cicero, Evanston, Skokie, Des Plaines, Downers Grove, and Elmhurst. Regardless of the employer or project location, injured workers may still have rights under Illinois law.
Factors That Determine Workers’ Compensation Coverage for Construction Workers
Not every construction worker is automatically covered by workers’ compensation. Each state defines workers’ compensation requirements differently, and in Illinois, coverage often depends on how the worker is classified and the nature of the employment relationship.
One of the most common issues on Chicago construction sites is the misclassification of workers as independent contractors. While workers’ compensation coverage is generally not required for true independent contractors, many construction workers are labeled as contractors even though they function as employees. This can leave injured workers confused—or wrongly told they are not covered—after a serious accident.
If you are unsure whether you have workers’ compensation coverage, you can ask your supervisor or the company’s human resources department. However, coverage details are not always clearly explained, and some workers are discouraged from asking questions after an injury. Speaking with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer can help clarify whether you are legally entitled to benefits.
McHargue & Jones, LLC has represented hundreds of injured construction workers across Illinois, including both union and non-union employees, in workers’ compensation cases. We understand the physical demands of construction work and the challenges injured workers face when dealing with insurance companies. Our firm has extensive experience maximizing workers’ compensation benefits and settlements, and we work to ensure our clients receive the medical care and wage benefits they are entitled to under Illinois law. We speak English and Spanish, and our team is here to help guide you through every step of the process.
What Happens If You Are Injured on a Construction Site Without Workers’ Comp?
Workers’ compensation benefits typically cover medical treatment and a portion of lost wages after a work-related injury, regardless of who was at fault. In exchange, injured workers generally cannot file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer. Many construction companies carry workers’ compensation insurance specifically to avoid workplace injury lawsuits.
If you are injured on a construction site and truly do not have workers’ compensation coverage, you may still have legal options. In some cases, injured construction workers can pursue a personal injury claim against a negligent subcontractor, property owner, equipment manufacturer, or other third party. These cases require proof of fault and often involve complex liability issues, making legal guidance especially important.
Legal Help for Injured Construction Workers in Chicago and the Suburbs
At McHargue & Jones, LLC, we represent injured construction workers throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including Cook, DuPage, and Lake County communities. We help workers determine whether they are covered by workers’ compensation, challenge misclassification issues, and pursue personal injury claims when workers’ comp does not apply.
📍 Serving construction workers across Chicago, Oak Brook, Naperville, Schaumburg, Evanston, Cicero, and beyond
📞 Call (312) 739-0000 for a free consultation
