phone
contact us today! (847) 357-0403

Construction accidents can cause catastrophic or even fatal injuries. Sadly, many workers or visitors on construction sites are killed each year due to various hazards. If your loved one was a victim of a construction site accident, you may have legal options for recovering compensation and holding the at-fault party accountable.

If you lost a loved one in this type of incident, reach out to a firm that handles wrongful death construction accidents in Elgin. At the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd., our compassionate attorneys have over thirty years of experience helping families recover damages in these situations.

Frequent Causes of Fatal Construction Site Accidents

Construction sites are dangerous environments requiring various safety precautions and regulations. However, fatal accidents can still occur, often due to acts of negligence. Our seasoned lawyers have handled many claims for fatal construction accidents in Elgin and could help a family determine the responsible party in their situation. Common defendants in wrongful death claims include:

  • Tool and part manufacturers
  • Vehicle manufacturers
  • Subcontractors
  • Gas and chemical delivery/storage companies
  • Scaffolding manufacturers

Workers’ Compensation Death Benefits

If the victim of a construction accident was an eligible employee, the family could recover death benefits through the workers’ compensation coverage of their deceased loved one. Pursuing workers’ compensation benefits means that the family cannot file suit against the employer. However, the family may still pursue damages from a third party, such as the ones listed above. A knowledgeable attorney at our Elgin office could help a family determine whether their loved one was covered by workers’ compensation and, if so, assist with filing for death benefits.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit for a Construction Accident?

A wrongful death lawsuit is not an option open to all the friends and family of the deceased. Only the dependent family members of the victim may file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the victim’s estate. This includes the spouse, children, dependent parents, or dependent siblings.

Under 740 ILCS 180, family members have two years from the date of their loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. It is best to work with a dedicated attorney for help filing claims on time.

Recoverable Damages for Fatal Construction Incidents

A wrongful death could leave a family suffering from various financial burdens on top of the emotional pain of losing a loved one. A skilled Elgin attorney could help pursue the following types of damages after a fatal construction accident:

  • Lost lifetime income
  • Outstanding medical expenses
  • The family’s emotional turmoil
  • Loss of companionship

To make a strong case for recovery, our lawyers may gather medical records, receipts, paystubs, tax records, and witness statements to establish the value of a family’s losses. The construction accident lawyers at our firm are well-practiced in helping Elgin families get the compensation they deserve after the tragic loss of a loved one.

Contact an Elgin Attorney for Wrongful Death Construction Accidents

If you lost a loved one in a catastrophic accident, reach out to our firm for compassionate guidance. The attorneys at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. have a track record of helping families recover for wrongful death construction accidents in Elgin. Let us advise you on pursuing benefits under workers’ compensation or filing suit against a third party. We are here to consult with you about your specific situation and help your family through this difficult time. Call us today to get started.

Contact Us Today