CHICAGO, IL – In a heart-wrenching incident that underscores the perils faced by construction workers, Jeffrey Spyrka, an ironworker, miraculously survived an eight-story fall from a scaffold swaying precariously in 40 mph winds. Just four days after this harrowing accident, Spyrka’s family has filed a lawsuit against Turner Construction, the general contractor, and Adjustable Forms Incorporated, the subcontractor, accusing them of “careless and negligent acts.”
The tragic event unfolded last Thursday at the University of Chicago Cancer Pavilion project. Spyrka was working on a scaffold on the southwest corner of the building when strong winds struck and led to the death of 27-year-old technical engineer David O’Donnell and left Spyrka severely injured.
Attorney Lou Cairo is representing the Spyrka family and shared that the drive for profit overshadowed safety concerns.
“They just wanted the job done, because time is money, profit over safety,” Cairo stated.
The lawsuit highlights that workers had previously voiced concerns about the stability of the scaffold days before the incident. Despite these warnings, the subcontractor allegedly assured that the issues would be addressed.
“This scaffold was not properly inspected. It was not properly constructed,” Cairo emphasized. “The manner in which it was supported in the corners, which is the most critical part of that scaffold, was faulty.”
The Aftermath and Legal Actions
Just days later, Spyrka has filed a lawsuit calling for accountability and justice. Spyrka landed on bundles of PVC pipe which likely played a role in saving his life.
“It’s a miracle he’s alive,” Cairo remarked.
Doctors at the University of Chicago Medical Center was crucial in stabilizing Spyrka who suffered numerous broken bones, serious internal injuries and head trauma. After undergoing multiple surgeries, he’s now responsive and not paralyzed.
“Heaven just doesn’t have room for one more angel right now,” Cairo added.
Adjustable Forms Incorporated, the subcontractor named in the lawsuit, has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the incident. Turner Construction, the general contractor, acknowledged awareness of the lawsuit and stated that they are still investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
The Broader Implications
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the inherent dangers in the construction industry and the critical importance of rigorous safety standards. The negligence and the failure to address known safety issues highlight a troubling disregard for worker welfare. The Spyrka family’s lawsuit is not just a quest for justice, but also a call for systemic changes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Construction sites are inherently risky, but with proper precautions and respect for safety protocols, many accidents can be avoided. The lawsuit against Turner Construction and Adjustable Forms Incorporated could potentially lead to stricter safety regulations and better enforcement of existing ones, ensuring that worker safety is prioritized over profit margins.
Conclusion
The survival of Jeffrey Spyrka is nothing short of miraculous, but it came at the cost of David O’Donnell’s life and immeasurable pain for their families. As legal proceedings unfold, there is hope that this tragic incident will spark meaningful changes in the construction industry, fostering a culture where safety is paramount. For now, the focus remains on supporting the victims and their families as they navigate the aftermath of this devastating event.
