Two Accidents, One Job
The client was 41 and worked as a forklift operator at a food-distribution company in Chicago, Illinois. In 2023 he was hurt twice. First, he fell about five or six feet reaching for a box, landing on his right side — shoulder and chest. Weeks later, a forklift struck his right leg and fractured his ankle.
Serious Injuries — and a Firing
The right shoulder was no mere bruise: a rotator-cuff tear that required arthroscopic surgery. The ankle had a fracture that left him in a boot, on crutches, and in therapy. Worse, he was fired soon after the accidents over alleged absences. The insurer used it to dispute his benefits and the extent of his injuries. For the client — who had come from Venezuela and spoke little English — every step was harder: the language, the fear, not knowing his rights.
Turning Strategy Into Justice
When the client came to our office, our legal team immediately took control of the case. We handled both accidents together. We assembled the full medical record, pressed for the wage benefits owed, and filed a Section 19(b) petition for an immediate hearing to push the insurer. We did not let him be abandoned because he had lost the job. Jack Epstein, with 30 years of experience in the Illinois legal market, oversaw the strategy. Throughout, the client paid nothing until we won the case.
The Result
The client secured a global $71,863.71 settlement for both accidents, of which he received $57,018 net. The agreement recognized a permanent loss in the foot and the person as a whole, and his disability weeks were paid. Every point the insurer disputed, we fought.
Why This Case Matters
Being fired after a workplace accident does not erase your rights. Language and immigration status do not either. An injured worker has the right to treatment, wage benefits, and fair compensation. If you were hurt at work — even if you were let go afterward — our Illinois legal team can help you recover what you rightfully deserve.
