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Industrial Accidents

Industrial Accident Attorney

Legal Help After A Serious Industrial Injury

Industrial sites can become hazardous in seconds. If you or someone close to you was hurt at a plant or warehouse, you may be dealing with serious injuries, missed work, and pressure from an employer or insurer. An industrial accident attorney can help protect your rights and pursue the benefits and compensation available.

At Leonard Law Group, we represent injured workers in industrial and warehouse facilities across Chicago. For nearly 30 years, our attorneys have handled workers' compensation and personal injury claims after serious on-the-job accidents, with a focus on direct attorney access so you are not treated like a claim number. We also represent clients in slip and fall accidents and matters. We have recovered over one billion dollars for injured clients; past results are not a guarantee of future outcomes. If you have questions after an industrial accident, we can review what happened and explain your options.

Speak with an industrial accident attorney who knows how quickly workplace injuries can derail your life. Call (312) 487-2513 for a free consultation and get clear guidance on your rights and options.

Why Injured Workers Choose Our Firm

When an industrial accident disrupts your health and income, choosing the right legal team matters. You need lawyers who understand Illinois work injury claims, the long-term impact of catastrophic injuries, and how to pursue every available source of recovery. That is what we provide at Leonard Law Group.

For nearly three decades, our attorneys have represented injured workers in and around Chicago, recovering over one billion dollars in on-the-job and negligence-related claims. One key difference is continuity: the partner you hire remains your primary attorney from start to finish, so you get direct answers from someone who knows your case. We also prioritize clear updates and plain-language guidance, and you can review client testimonials to see how we approach service and communication.

What To Do After An Industrial Accident

  1. Get to a safe area away from equipment, vehicles, or active hazards.
  2. Call for help and seek medical care right away (ER for serious injuries; doctor visit even if symptoms seem minor).
  3. Tell the medical provider the injury happened at work and describe how it occurred.
  4. Report the accident to a supervisor or HR as soon as possible, following workplace procedure.
  5. Give a clear, accurate account: what happened, what equipment was involved, unsafe conditions, and witness names.
  6. Read any incident report carefully before signing; keep a copy if you can.
  7. Document what you can safely: photos/video of the scene, equipment, missing guards, spills, and warning signs.
  8. Write quick notes while it’s fresh: date/time, task being done, who was nearby, and what was said afterward.
  9. Keep records: medical paperwork, work restrictions, missed time, and any communications from your employer/insurer.
  10. Be cautious with insurance or company requests for recorded statements or broad medical releases.
  11. Do not downplay symptoms; follow treatment plans and attend follow-up appointments.
  12. Contact Leonard Law Group early to help preserve evidence and guide you through paperwork and deadlines.

Industrial Accidents & Injuries We Handle

Industrial jobs across Chicago can involve heavy equipment, moving loads, and fast-paced schedules, and we represent workers hurt in many of these settings, from manufacturing plants and distribution centers to rail and freight facilities, including rail yard injuries. We handle cases involving sudden incidents and injuries that develop over time, and we look closely at site conditions, shared workspaces, contractors, and outside equipment or vendors that may have contributed.

  • Machinery entanglements (rollers, presses, conveyors)
  • Crush injuries from pallets, shifting materials, or unsecured loads
  • Forklift and industrial vehicle collisions on warehouse floors or yards
  • Falls from loading docks, ladders, platforms, mezzanines, or elevated walkways
  • Struck-by incidents from falling materials, tools, or equipment
  • Overhead load incidents and rigging failures
  • Chemical exposure and hazardous substance incidents
  • Burn injuries at work
  • Electrical shocks and arc-flash injuries
  • Common injuries: fractures, torn ligaments, herniated discs, amputations, severe burns, head/brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, nerve damage, and chronic pain
  • Related jobsite cases we also evaluate when they overlap with industrial operations: construction site accidents, crane accidents, and scaffolding accidents

Workers’ Compensation & Third Party Claims

After an industrial injury, many workers begin with an Illinois work injury claim. These benefits can help cover medical expenses and part of lost wages, including temporary total disability benefits when you cannot work. Disputes are common, especially over medical treatment, work restrictions, and when you are cleared to return.

In some cases, a separate claim based on third-party liability may also apply. This can happen when someone other than your employer contributed to the accident, such as a manufacturer of a defective machine component, an outside contractor operating equipment, or a property owner responsible for unsafe conditions in an area your employer does not control.

When these claims overlap, the case can involve multiple investigations and legal deadlines. At Leonard Law Group, we evaluate the benefits claim and any additional claims, pursue the right strategy for a fair workers comp settlement, and seek workers comp penalties when the law allows. We also represent families after fatal workplace injuries and wrongful death cases tied to work-related incidents.

How Our Industrial Accident Lawyers Help

After an industrial accident, our lawyers step in to protect your claim and reduce the pressure from employers and insurers. We review what happened, explain any paperwork you have been given, and guide you through the claims process while the partner you hire remains directly involved in strategy and communication. We gather medical records and accident evidence, challenge decisions that unfairly limit benefits or treatment, and pursue recovery that reflects your injuries and lost income. Leonard Law Group offers free consultations and handles these cases on a contingency fee call (312) 487-2513 to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an industrial accident attorney if I get workers’ comp?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but many injured workers find it helpful. Workers' compensation does not always cover everything, and disputes can arise over treatment or benefits. We can review your situation, look for possible third-party claims, and work to protect your rights.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We typically handle industrial injury cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you do not pay upfront legal fees, and our fee is usually a percentage of what we recover for you, subject to Illinois law and a written agreement. We explain all terms before you decide to hire us.

Can I be fired for filing an industrial injury claim?

Illinois law generally prohibits employers from firing you simply because you filed a workers' compensation claim. Every situation is different, and employers sometimes give other reasons for job decisions. If you are worried about retaliation, we can discuss your specific circumstances and help you consider your options.

When should I contact an industrial accident lawyer after my injury?

It is usually best to contact a lawyer as soon as you can after getting necessary medical care. Early guidance can help you report the injury correctly, meet deadlines, and avoid signing documents that may hurt your claim. We can speak with you even if your case is at an early stage.

What if I were partly at fault for my industrial accident?

In workers' compensation claims, benefits are often available even if your own actions played a role, as long as certain rules are met. For possible third-party claims, fault is more complex and depends on Illinois law. We can analyze how responsibility might be shared and what that means for your case.

After a serious industrial injury, having the right legal support can protect your recovery and your income. Contact Leonard Law Group today at (312) 487-2513 for a free consultation and experienced representation focused on injured workers.

Clients Share Their Stories

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    Attorney Joseph Leonard and his team were a pleasure to work with.
    “Attorney Joseph Leonard and his team were a pleasure to work with. They were highly professional and excellent communicators. They were also extremely knowledgeable about my case. I wouldn't hesitate to refer him to others.”
    - Robert C.
    Most definitely awesome
    “I've used Leonard Law Group several times and each time they've fulfilled their promises to help me get the best results in every way not only that when I have questions or concerns Leonard Law Group does not hesitate to contact me whether email or a phone call to answer my questions. The customer service is most definitely awesome. I highly recommend Leonard Law Group. Thank you Joseph Leonard”
    - Robert P.
    Went above and beyond
    “Mr. Leonard and his staff went above and beyond what I was expecting! I’m very grateful for all that Mr. Leonard did for me. Thank you!”
    - Red
    Thank you sincerely from the bottom of my heart for what you did for me.
    “I've been thinking how fortunate, blessed, I am to have an attorney like you. You're a great attorney and I'm glad that you're MY attorney!”
    - Robert B.
    Leonard Law is a must if you are injured on the job!
    “Thank you Leonard Law (Joe) for all that you do. I don't know what I would do without you. Thank you.”
    - Joe LiCavoli
    Made everything easy
    “It was a pleasure working with Joe Brancky. He made everything easy and the process was pretty quick but obviously that depends on your situation. If I ever need legal help in the future I'll definitely be contacting him and telling friends/family if they need it as well.”
    - Marco M.
    Expertise, kindness, and hard work
    “I grateful that I found Leonard Law Group. Joseph was there in my time of need and helped me navigate my worker's compensation case. In addition, he referred me to specialists that helped me recover from my injuries. I’m pleased with the experience and outcome of my case. I want to thank Joseph, Maria, and the team at Leonard Law Group for their expertise, kindness, and hard work.”
    - Jesus B.
    Great
    “John was Great. It was great to finally meet him in person. Totally not what I expected In a great way! This law firm hasn't let me down yet. Keep up the good work!”
    - Kaye C.
    Always there to answer any questions
    “Joe Brancky was wonderful! He was always there to answer any questions we had and was able to help us with any concerns. Thank you!”
    - Heather S.