Chicago, IL (June 8, 2024) – On Thursday, a scaffold in the Hyde Park area collapsed, resulting in the death of one construction worker and the critical injury of another worker.

The incident occurred at approximately noon at a construction site on the University of Chicago Medical Center campus, located at 57th Street and Drexel Avenue. New Horizon Steel reportedly employed the workers. Chicago fire officials alleged that the superstructure of a concrete structure on the upper levels became unstable due to the wind, causing the two victims to fall.

One of the workers, a 27-year-old Oak Forest man, was pronounced dead at the scene. The second worker was transported to the University of Chicago Medical Center in critical condition. Meanwhile, OSHA will investigate the accident, with further details to be released in the coming weeks.

We extend our deepest condolences to the deceased man’s loved ones. Our thoughts are with the injured victim in hopes of his full recovery.

Deadly Work Accidents in Chicagoland

In Illinois, it is a general requirement for all employers to maintain workers’ compensation insurance regardless of the number of employees (one hundred or more). Upon the commencement of employment, the employer must provide workers’ compensation coverage for the employee. Noncompliance with insurance requirements may incur a financial penalty of at least $10,000. Moreover, workers’ compensation insurance protects approximately 91% of the state’s workforce and can kick in if a significant, injury-causing, or deadly workplace accident occurs, with the following benefits typically available to Illinois workers:

  • Replacement of loss of income, along with disability benefits
  • Medical coverage for reasonably necessary treatments
  • Maintenance and vocational rehabilitation assistance
  • Burial expenses and bereavement to surviving family members

Following a worker’s death in a preventable workplace accident, eligible individuals may be able to pursue civil litigation and secure coverage for the damages they’ve sustained with the assistance of a qualified lawyer. These damages or losses generally include funeral expenses, pain and suffering, loss of consortium or companionship, and additional costs depending on a claim’s details.

Thankfully, with the help of a Chicago wrongful death lawyer from Ankin Law, you can hold negligent parties accountable. A bereaved family member’s death is an unfathomable tragedy. However, our proficient team will provide the information you and your family need to navigate wrongful death litigation. Contact the wrongful death attorneys at Ankin Law in Chicago immediately at 312-600-0000 for a free consultation.

Note: We use outside sources such as news reports, police reports, social media platforms, and first-hand or eyewitness accounts about accidents that happen throughout the state of Illinois. We have not verified any of the facts surrounding this particular accident. Please contact Ankin Law, LLC, if you locate any incorrect information in our post. We will correct it immediately or remove a post if requested.

Disclaimer: This post is not intended as a solicitation for business. It’s vital to understand that these posts do not offer legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Legal outcomes can differ based on individual circumstances. For personalized legal guidance, please reach out directly to Ankin Law, LLC. The featured image used in this post was not taken at this accident scene.