Rockford Industrial Accident Attorneys

The manufacturing and production industries are dangerous and rank among the top five occupations for workplace injuries. Safety is important in these environments, and employees need adequate training on how to perform their jobs safely. When employers cut corners, employees are the ones who lose out, suffering from serious injuries and possibly even death. 

Industrial jobsites often include hazards such as heavy equipment or extreme temperatures that can make accidents even more dangerous. The industrial accident lawyers at Clark Frost Zucchi can assist you after suffering injuries in a workplace accident. If you need help understanding your legal options and rights to compensation, please contact us today.

Causes of Industrial Accidents

Industrial accidents can be caused by negligent or reckless actions or by unsafe workplace conditions. Many are caused by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) violations. Common causes include:

• Lack of fall protection
• Equipment rollovers
• Vehicle and forklift overturns
• Being struck by heavy equipment
• Defective power tools and equipment
• Defective safety equipment
• Improperly following guidelines for the operation of equipment or machinery
• Lack of guarding on equipment and machinery
• Being caught in machinery or equipment
• Being crushed by a collapsing structure
• Improperly placed ladders
• Lack of respiratory protection
• Flawed electrical system design
• Hazardous electrical wiring methods
• Failure to meet hazard communication standards
• Toxic chemical exposure

Overall, industrial accidents are the result of three major issues:

• Taking shortcuts. Everyone wants to get work done faster. However, workers are vulnerable to injuries when employers, co-workers, or supervisors take shortcuts on the job. This is especially true in industrial workplaces, where machinery and chemicals are involved.
• Poor housekeeping. Work areas should be neat, clean, and well-organized. Clutter and disorganization lead to hazards and threats. Good housekeeping improves safety, so employers should focus on promoting clean workspaces.
• Neglecting safety procedures. Agencies like OSHA have specific safety guidelines that employers must follow. When employers fail to do so, this can result in serious penalties, as well as serious injury or death for employees.

Compensation for Industrial Accident Injuries

Most workers injured on the job will qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. However, employers and their insurance companies often take steps to minimize the amount they have to pay, and they may even deny valid claims. An experienced workers’ compensation attorney can help you seek the full amount of benefits you’re entitled to receive.

Most often, your best bet is to file a workers’ compensation claim. However, in some situations, a personal injury lawsuit might be a better option. This might apply if:

• A defective product caused your workplace injury.
• Your injuries are the result of negligence by an employer or a third party.
• You are injured by a toxic substance or hazardous material.
• You are not eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

If you are unsure which type of claim is best for your case, it’s wise to consult with a lawyer who regularly handles both workers’ compensation and personal injury claims.

Contact Us Today

Industrial accidents can cause a wide range of injuries. If you are injured in the workplace, it’s important that you seek full and fair compensation. 

At Clark Frost Zucchi, we’ll work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. We understand the workers’ compensation system and what it takes to win. We serve clients throughout Northern Illinois. Schedule a free consultation today by filling out the online form or calling our office directly.