WORKERS’ COMPENSATION: CONSTRUCTION WORKER PINNED UNDER FORKLIFT

A single missed paycheck may be all that it takes for a worker to lose control of his or her finances. Because of this, most people in Illinois are hard workers who take their jobs very seriously. Unfortunately, as all it takes single accident to cause a severe injury, it does not matter how attentive to safety a person is while at work. Workers’ compensation benefits exist to help those who are hurt on the job.

A 51-year-old construction worker was working on renovations at the Museum of Science and Industry when he was involved in a terrifying accident. Another worker was using a forklift to move heavy equipment. The machine fell landed directly on the 51-year-old. He was pinned in a hole six-feet below the museum’s basement.

Firefighters responded to the scene but had trouble reaching the man. They had to use several different specialized equipment — such as the “Jaws of Life” — before they were able to finally pull him out. It is unclear how long he was trapped in the hole. However, he had to be transported to an area hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration — OSHA — is currently investigating the accident.

No one is immune from experiencing a workplace accident. Workers across all industries and jobs can suffer serious injuries that put them out of work for extended periods of time. But it can be hard to truly focus on recovery when financial troubles are a constant source of stress. In Illinois, those who have been injured while on the job can apply for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits help cover lost wages and medical care.