A construction worker was trying to remove a collapsed concrete column with an excavator at Illinois State University's Hovey Hall when the column fell on him and he was crushed to death. The deceased worker was an employee of Stark Excavating, Inc. The 18,000 pound piece of concrete fell on the cab of the excavator causing severe trauma to the workers lower body which killed him.
Of all Illinois work sites, construction sites are probably the most dangerous work sites in the state. Illinois construction workers risk serious injury and even death on a daily basis in Illinois. It is for this reason that many of the cases filed with the Illinois Workers Compensation Commission are for construction related injuries.
Under the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act, Illinois construction workers are entitled to off-work benefits while recovering from the accident, and compensation for medical expenses. If an Illinois construction worker dies from his or her injuries, his or her widow or widower, children, or totally dependent parents who qualify for death benefits are entitled to benefits under the Act.
In some cases, an injured worker may be entitled to pursue a second case if a third party, other than the worker's employer, is responsible for the accident. If the injured worker has a third party case, it must be filed within two years of the accident.
Worker killed by collapsed column at Illinois State University, New York Injury News, December 30, 2009
If you are an injured worker, the family of a deceased worker, or wish to inquire about about a third party case, please contact us today for a free consultation.
