Construction is one of the most dangerous careers in America, with one in ten construction workers injured each year while working on the roads, infrastructure, and buildings across the country. This often involves the use of dangerous and heavy equipment such as compact track loaders.
Compact track loaders are essentially skid steer loaders with high-floatation rubber tracks that allow for the machines to move dirt and debris on sensitive surfaces or in conditions that are poor. Compact track loaders have auxiliary hydraulics to power attachments and are well suited for grading projects. While a useful piece of heavy equipment, compact track loaders are not without risk.
If you have been injured in a compact track loader accident, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you. Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.
Compact Track Loader Risks
According to the National Safety Council, the risks of operating compact track loaders and skid steer loaders are as high as operators of tractors and other pieces of heavy machinery. Loaders have locking wheels to allow for quick turns in tight spaces which can lead to tip-overs. Compact track loaders are also loud and commonly utilize diesel engines for their power, which can lead to injuries to hearing and respiratory issues.
It is important that operators of compact track loaders be fully trained in the safe usage and proper, routine maintenance of these pieces of equipment. It is also important that only loaders be used that is free from defects in design and manufacture to keep the compact track loader operator and bystanders safe from serious injuries.
The most common injuries seen in compact track loader accidents include:
- Bruises
- Lacerations
- Fractures
- Abrasions
- Amputation
- Crushing injuries
- Severe burns
- Permanent disabilities
- Head, neck, and spinal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
Liability in Construction Accidents
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH ACT), employers have an obligation to maintain a safe working environment and follow the regulations of OSHA. If the employer, subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or another employee fails to follow the appropriate standards of care and their actions or inactions cause an accident, they could be liable for the injuries and damages their negligence caused.
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act provides benefits, including medical and rehabilitation expenses, partial wages, and disability benefits to an injured worker regardless of who was at-fault for the accident. Workers compensation does typically prohibit an employee from suing their employer for the accident, however, there may be other options including filing a claim against a negligent third-party, such as a subcontractor, vendor, defective equipment designer and/or manufacturer, or general contractor who is not the employee’s direct employer.
Construction accidents are often complex, involving multiple parties and defendants. This is why it is important to contact an
experienced injury attorney to determine your rights under Illinois law.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to negligence on the job site or a defective product, the
lawyers at 844 See Mike can review your claim and determine if there were unsafe working conditions, potential OSHA violations, and other hazards that may have existed at the time of your accident. They will also determine who may be liable for your injuries and damages and what compensation you may be entitled to.
Helping our clients is about counseling, advocating, and ultimately solving problems. With years of experience successfully representing the people, not the powerful, we will take care of the insurance adjusters, your medical bills, your property damage, and your lost wages, and monitor your treatment so you can focus on healing and getting your life back to normal. Our unique formula has earned us over
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