Last Updated February 13, 2026
Representing Injured Construction Workers in Chicago & Throughout Illinois
Construction work is one of the most dangerous occupations in Illinois. Falls, heavy equipment accidents, electrocution injuries, and struck-by incidents occur every day on job sites across Chicago, Cook County, and surrounding suburbs.
If you were injured while working construction, you may qualify for Illinois workers’ compensation benefits and possibly additional recovery through a third-party injury lawsuit.
At McHargue & Jones, LLC, our Chicago construction accident lawyers have represented injured workers since 2000 and recovered millions on their behalf.
Call (312) 739-0000 for a Free Consultation.
Construction Workers’ Compensation in Illinois
Most injured construction workers file claims under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. If you were hurt on a job site, you may qualify for:
- Payment of all reasonable and necessary medical care
- Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits
- Permanent partial disability (PPD) compensation
- Vocational rehabilitation benefits
Learn more about your rights on our Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer page.
For a clear overview of benefits, see: Types of Workers’ Comp Benefits in Illinois.
Official information is also available through the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission (IWCC).
How Much Is a Construction Injury Case Worth?
Many injured workers want to know what their case may be worth. The value depends on:
- The type and severity of injury
- Whether surgery is required
- Permanent restrictions and disability ratings
- How much time you miss from work
- Whether a third-party claim is available
For detailed valuation guidance, review:
- What Is My Illinois Workers’ Comp Case Worth?
- Illinois Workers’ Comp Settlement Chart
- Questions to Ask About Your Workers’ Comp Settlement Offer
Common Construction Injuries We See in Chicago
Construction injuries often affect the shoulders, knees, back, and neck—especially after falls, lifting injuries, struck-by accidents, and equipment incidents.
Shoulder & Rotator Cuff Injuries
How Much Is a Shoulder or Rotator Cuff Injury Worth in Illinois Workers’ Comp?
Knee Injuries
How Much Is a Knee Injury Worth in Illinois Workers’ Comp?
Back Injuries
How Much Is a Back Injury Worth in an Illinois Workers’ Compensation Case?
Neck Injuries
How Much Is a Neck Injury Worth in Illinois Workers’ Comp?
Common Causes of Construction Accidents
- Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs
- Falling tools, debris, or materials
- Crane, lift, forklift, and other heavy equipment accidents
- Trench collapses and excavation incidents
- Electrical incidents and electrocution injuries
- Defective tools, machinery, or safety equipment
- Unsafe job site conditions and OSHA violations
Construction companies must comply with federal safety standards established by OSHA construction regulations. Failure to follow these rules may support both workers’ compensation claims and third-party negligence lawsuits.
Workers’ Compensation vs. Third-Party Construction Accident Lawsuits
Workers’ compensation usually prevents lawsuits against your employer. However, many construction injuries involve negligence by other companies or parties on the job site.
When a Third-Party Claim May Apply
If someone other than your employer caused your injury, you may be able to pursue a third-party personal injury claim against:
- A general contractor or subcontractor
- A property owner
- An equipment or tool manufacturer
- A vendor, delivery driver, or other third party on the job site
Unlike workers’ compensation, a third-party lawsuit may allow recovery for pain and suffering, loss of normal life, and full wage loss in addition to medical expenses.
Construction Workers We Represent
We represent union and non-union construction workers, including:
- Ironworkers
- Electricians
- Laborers
- Roofers
- Plumbers
- Heavy equipment operators
Learn more here: Workers’ Compensation for Construction Workers.
Why Choose McHargue & Jones, LLC?
- Serving Chicago workers since 2000
- Millions recovered for injured clients
- Extensive experience before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission
- No fees unless we win
- Spanish-speaking legal team
Meet our attorney: Matthew C. Jones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Chicago construction accident lawyer do?
A Chicago construction accident lawyer helps injured construction workers file workers’ compensation claims, pursue third-party injury lawsuits, gather evidence, handle insurance disputes, and fight for maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and permanent disability.
Can I get workers’ compensation after a construction accident in Illinois?
Yes. Most injured construction workers qualify for Illinois workers’ compensation benefits, including medical treatment coverage and wage replacement benefits, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.
How much is a construction accident case worth in Chicago?
The value of a Chicago construction accident case depends on the type of injury, whether surgery is required, time missed from work, permanent disability, and whether a third-party lawsuit is available. Severe injuries often result in higher settlements.
Can I sue someone after a construction site injury in Chicago?
In many cases, yes. While workers’ compensation usually prevents lawsuits against your employer, you may be able to file a third-party lawsuit against a subcontractor, property owner, general contractor, or equipment manufacturer if they caused the accident.
What injuries are common in construction accidents?
Common construction accident injuries include back injuries, neck injuries, knee injuries, shoulder and rotator cuff injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, burns, amputations, and electrocution injuries.
How long do I have to file a construction accident claim in Illinois?
Workers’ compensation claims in Illinois generally must be filed within three years of the injury date. Third-party personal injury lawsuits are usually subject to a two-year statute of limitations. Deadlines vary, so speaking with an attorney quickly is important.
What should I do after a construction accident in Chicago?
After a construction accident, seek medical care immediately, notify your employer in writing, document the accident scene if possible, and speak with a Chicago construction accident lawyer to protect your rights and ensure proper filing of your claim.
What if my workers’ compensation claim is denied?
If your Illinois workers’ compensation claim is denied, you have the right to appeal through the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission. An attorney can help you gather medical evidence and present your case for benefits.
Speak With a Chicago Construction Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured on a construction site in Chicago, The Loop, West Side, South Side, Cicero, Berwyn, or anywhere in Cook County, we can evaluate your case.
Call (312) 739-0000 today for a free consultation.