Working in Chicago can be dangerous, particularly in industries involving driving, heavy equipment, or hazardous workplace conditions. Our Chicago workers’ compensation lawyers are here to help you claim the resources you need to heal after a workplace injury. The 10 most dangerous trades in Chicago include:
- Construction – The construction industry is known for its high injury rates. Risks to construction workers include falls from heights, scaffolding accidents, being struck by falling objects, and injuries from heavy machinery and power tools. Around 4,000 Illinois construction workers reported nonfatal injuries during one recent year.
- Trade, Transportation, and Utilities – This sector includes warehouse employees, utility workers, truckers, and others who often work near heavy machinery and electrical hazards. Vehicle accidents are also common among these workers. Bureau of Labor Statistics figures indicate that over 36,000 Illinois workers in this sector suffered nonfatal injuries during one recent year.
- Education and Health Services – Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers work physically demanding jobs while being exposed to unsafe conditions and potentially violent patients. Meanwhile, teachers and school staff face injuries from slips, trips, and falls at their jobs. No wonder this sector reported 21,000 nonfatal injuries in one year, the second-highest number among all workers statewide.
- State and Local Government Services – Employees in this sector, which includes police officers, firefighters, and sanitation workers, often deal with high-stress situations and intense physical strain. They might also work near hazardous materials or environments, increasing their risk of severe illnesses or equipment injuries.
- Manufacturing – Heavy machinery accidents, repetitive motion injuries, and exposure to toxic chemicals are common hazards among manufacturing workers. Similarly, accidents involving forklifts or assembly line equipment often cause injuries.
- Leisure and Hospitality – Kitchens, pools, and amusement park attractions can all present dangers. Workers in this field are at risk for slip-and-fall accidents, burns from hot surfaces, and injuries from lifting or carrying heavy objects.
- Professional and Business Services – While office environments may seem safer, travel-related accidents and vehicle collisions are also common risks for business travelers.
- Information Services – Although this sector is less physically demanding than others, mental health issues related to stress and burnout are common.
- Financial Services – While they mostly work in offices, financial service professionals face risks from stress-related health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Furthermore, traveling to meet clients can result in vehicle accidents.
- Natural Resources and Mining – Unsurprisingly, mining workers and others in similar fields face significant risks, including exposure to toxic substances, cave-ins, equipment malfunctions, and heavy machinery accidents. Additionally, the physical nature of the work increases the chance of musculoskeletal injuries.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Injured Chicago Employees
Most Illinois workers who aren’t contractors qualify for workers’ comp benefits if they sustain an on-the-job injury. These benefits include:
- Medical Expenses – You’re entitled to coverage for all necessary medical treatments for a valid work-related injury. These benefits cover the full cost of doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, and more.
- Temporary Total Disability Benefits – If your injury prevents you from working, you may receive a portion of your lost wages while you recover. The amount is usually two-thirds of your average wages, up to limits under state law.
- Permanent Partial Disability Benefits – If your injury leaves you permanently disabled, you may qualify for benefits based on the severity of your disability and how it impacts your ability to work. Permanent total disability benefits can provide lifetime support in cases involving catastrophic injuries.
Levin, Riback & Adelman can handle your workers’ comp case and fight back if your employer tries to reduce your benefits or deny your claim. We can also investigate if someone other than your employer caused your injury, which would let you seek additional compensation through a personal injury claim. Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation.