I got a call the other day from a man who was very upset. He was at work two weeks ago and apparently a large steel beam fell and missed crushing him by about two feet.
He wanted to bring a work comp case because he almost died and he feels that someone should be responsible for this.
Keep in mind that he hasn’t seen a doctor nor has he missed any time from work. I asked him if he was afraid to return to work or felt the need to see a psychologist and he gave me an emphatic no.
So the reality is that this was a close call, but no harm was suffered at all. As a result, he has no case.
What he can do is file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) but all that will do is fine the company and hopefully create a safer work environment.
He’s really a lucky guy. I understand why he’s mad and wants to hire a lawyer, but I’d be lying to him if I said there was anything we can do. I assure you though that he’s happier to be injury free and have no case than to be crushed by steel and have a claim. The only one that loses in this situation is me as a lawyer and that’s a good thing. I’ll take a healthy caller over a big pay day any day of the week.
We are workers’ compensation attorneys who help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
