In personal injury law, time is a critical factor, particularly regarding the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations sets a deadline for how long one has to bring a personal injury claim resulting from someone else’s negligence. Understanding this deadline is essential because if you fail to get legal help within this timeframe, you can be barred from obtaining any compensation or damages from the accident.
The statute of limitations differs between a standard personal injury case and a construction accident case. Understanding this difference is crucial, especially considering the complexities of construction accident cases, where identifying liable parties among multiple contractors can be daunting. This article will discuss construction accidents, the statute of limitations in Illinois for filing a claim, and why you should consult a personal injury lawyer to represent you as soon as possible after your injury.
Construction Accident Statute of Limitations in Illinois
Personal injury cases stemming from construction accidents operate on a longer statute of limitations, providing victims a broader window to pursue legal action. While standard personal injury cases abide by a two-year limit, the extended four-year timeframe in construction accident cases acknowledges the intricate nature of these incidents and the challenges associated with identifying all responsible parties.
The Complexity of Construction Accidents
Construction sites present a dynamic and bustling backdrop where contractors and entities collaborate in many different roles. Pinpointing liable parties in a construction accident scenario proves challenging due to the intricate web of potential defendants.
Unlike other personal injury cases where the liability is more straightforward, construction accidents often result from the simultaneous operation of many different contractors at a shared site. Examples of common construction site injuries include:
- Falls — From scaffolding, ladders, or other elevated areas, falls are some of the most prevalent construction site accidents
- Struck-by Accidents — Workers can be struck by falling objects, heavy machinery, or moving vehicles on-site.
- Electrocution — Exposure to live wires or faulty electrical systems is a significant risk on construction sites.
- Caught-in/Between Accidents — Workers may get caught or crushed by heavy machinery, collapsing structures, or between equipment and surfaces.
- Trips and Slips — Uneven surfaces, debris, or inadequate lighting can lead to slips, trips, and falls, causing injuries.
These accidents show the complexity and potential dangers inherent in construction sites, emphasizing the need for vigilance and safety measures to be put into place.
Properly Identifying Defendants
Due to the complexity of construction projects, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney after the accident is essential. An attorney with expertise in construction accident cases will understand the nuances of these situations and can accurately help identify all the proper defendants in your case before initiating legal proceedings.
This early consultation is critical in ensuring that all liable parties are identified. Missing a responsible entity could significantly impact the success of your lawsuit.
Navigating the Four-Year Statute of Limitations
Construction accident cases stand apart from other personal injury claims because of their extended four-year statute of limitations. This extended time frame allows victims more flexibility in pursuing legal action. It’s important to note that waiting until the last minute to consult with an attorney can be detrimental, as the process of identifying defendants, gathering evidence, and building a solid case can be time-consuming.
Finding a Personal Injury Lawyer Sooner Than Later
Experienced personal injury attorneys play a pivotal role in ensuring construction accident victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve. These attorneys have the expertise to navigate the web of contractors, subcontractors, and other entities involved in a construction project. By leveraging their knowledge and experience, they can build a compelling case that holds all responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
Additionally, a seasoned attorney can help victims understand their rights, assess the full extent of damages, and guide them through the legal process with compassion and diligence. With a construction accident’s 4-year statute of limitations, having a legal advocate early on in the process becomes even more crucial to meet deadlines and preserve the viability of a potential lawsuit.
Pullano & Siporin: A Case Study in Construction Accident Litigation
To show the significance of early legal consultation in construction accident cases, consider the success story of the following construction case, in which our firm successfully settled against six construction defendants for an impressive $6 million. In this case, a construction worker was injured when he fell through an opening in the floor on a construction site.
While working on the site, the worker stepped on a piece of plywood overhanging the edge of the opening. When the plywood gave way, he fell approximately twenty feet onto gravel, resulting in multiple fractures to his pelvis, ribs, and right wrist, as well as injuries to his right shoulder. Three surgeries were required to repair the open fracture on his wrist, which developed into post-traumatic arthritis.
This landmark case exemplifies the firm’s prowess in navigating the complexities of construction accident litigation. Pullano & Siporin’s ability to secure a substantial settlement for their client highlights the importance of a meticulous approach to identifying all liable parties and building a case strategy.
Choose Pullano & Siporin To Represent You in Your Construction Accident Case
At Pullano & Siporin, our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to being your strongest advocate, offering the expertise and support needed to secure the best outcome for your case. With any personal injury matter, our legal professionals are here to safeguard your rights and interests. We understand the challenges you’re facing, and we’re ready to take the lead with your personal injury claim.
We’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let our team alleviate the legal burdens, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
