Injured By A Power Tool On The Job? We Can Help You Seek Workers’ Comp Benefits.
Our attorneys at Anesi Ozmon, LTD, are proud to help injured construction workers secure the workers’ compensation benefits they need and deserve after an accident. Work in the construction industry is inherently dangerous, and power tool accidents are among the most common causes of injury.
If you were injured by a power tool or in any other type of construction accident, you can discuss your legal options with one of our dedicated lawyers during a free initial consultation.
Common Power Tool Accidents And Injuries
Accidents with power tools, many of which are work-related, result in hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits each year. These include:
- Nail-gun accidents that result in puncture wounds and cuts
- Jobsite table saw injuries including amputated fingers and severe cuts
- Electric shocks from power tools that are either ungrounded or have frayed wires
- Traumatic brain injuries caused by power tool kickback
- Eye injuries or blindness related to flying sparks and debris
- Lost limbs and severe bleeding from accidents involving chainsaws and other handheld power saws
Many of these accidents are caused by user error. When operating power tools for hours on end, it is all too easy to lose focus and let your guard down. It only takes a second of inattention to cause a serious and permanent injury.
Repetitive Stress And Cumulative Injuries Caused By Power Tools
Even when using a tool as intended, prolonged use can lead to injuries that qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. A good example is hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to noisy tools and equipment. This is a very common problem among construction workers – even those who wear hearing protection.
A lesser-known cumulative injury is called hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS). Most power tools transfer vibrations through the user’s hands and arms. Over time, these vibrations can lead to tingling and/or numbness in the hands and fingers, blanching (whitening) of the fingers and similar issues that could make it more difficult for workers to use their hands.
Know Your Legal Options After Being Injured By Another Worker
You typically cannot sue your employer for injuries caused by the employer or a co-worker of the same employer. This is the protection businesses receive in exchange for offering workers’ compensation benefits.
However, construction sites are often filled with numerous contractors and subcontractors. If your injuries were caused by someone who works for a different employer, you can likely file what’s known as a third-party liability lawsuit. This is a personal injury claim and will be separate from your workers’ comp claim.
Power Tool Manufacturers Can Be Held Liable For Defective Products
Unfortunately, many power tool accidents occur because the tool itself is defective. In such cases, our attorneys may be able to help you pursue a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer in addition to your workers’ compensation claim.
Get Started With A Free Initial Consultation
Anesi Ozmon, LTD, has been in operation since 1955, and we are a trusted legal resource for clients throughout Illinois. To learn more about how our experienced legal team can help you, contact our Chicago office to schedule a free initial consultation. Just call 312-997-5784 or reach out online.