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An airport worker was hospitalized following a collision at Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Saturday evening, according to 8 News Now. The incident occurred shortly before 7 p.m. as Air Wisconsin Flight 6181, arriving from Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, navigated an active taxiway.
Authorities report that the wing of the aircraft struck a tug vehicle attempting to cross the taxiway, leading to a violent impact that overturned the vehicle. The driver, a 64-year-old man, became trapped beneath the tug, sustaining severe injuries to his lower body and head. Emergency responders transported him to Lutheran General Hospital, where his condition was critical upon arrival. Medical teams have since stabilized him.
Passengers on the flight were safely deplaned and bused to the terminal without further incident. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing, with Area Five Detectives and the FAA working to determine how the collision occurred.
American Airlines, partnered with Air Wisconsin Airlines, has confirmed that it is actively reviewing the situation. No additional injuries have been reported.
Work environments like airports present unique risks to employees, particularly those operating vehicles or heavy machinery. Following the recent accident at Chicago O’Hare, which left a tug driver hospitalized, questions about legal recourse for injured airport workers have taken center stage. To provide clarity, attorney Erv Nevitt, known for his work in workplace injury cases, discusses the steps injured employees can take to seek compensation and accountability.
Editor Darla Medina: Mr. Nevitt, when workers are injured in environments like airports, what legal options are available to them?
Attorney Erv Nevitt: In cases like this, the injured worker could have multiple paths to compensation. Workers’ compensation is typically the first avenue, covering medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. However, if there’s evidence of negligence by a third party—such as an airline or equipment manufacturer—a personal injury claim may also come into play.
DM: How does liability get determined in such complex settings?
EN: Airports are unique because they involve multiple entities operating in close quarters. Investigators will closely examine who was responsible for ensuring the safety of the taxiway at that time. Was the tug driver properly trained? Were protocols followed? If there’s a failure by any party, it could shift liability. The FAA’s involvement will also be key in assessing regulatory compliance.
DM: What would you advise workers in high-risk environments like airports to do following an injury?
EN: It’s important to report the incident immediately, seek medical care, and document everything. Consulting an attorney early can help ensure they understand their rights and the compensation they’re entitled to.
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