05/19/2026
TP&B Partner Bradley N. Po***ck secured a $12 million settlement on behalf of a 28-year-old man who suffered fractures and a degloving injury to his left lower leg during a workplace forklift crash.
Plaintiff, a temp agency employee, was placed for short-term assignment, in a general labor role, at a Kane County distribution warehouse operated by Defendant. Defendant had Plaintiff operate a stand-up forklift, machinery requiring specific training and certification. Plaintiff was not certified and received minimal training. Shortly after beginning operation, Plaintiff lost control of the forklift and crashed, pinning his left lower leg between the machine and a bollard. Plaintiff sustained fractures to his left tibia and fibula at the ankle and a degloving injury to his lower leg. The Defendant disputed liability and argued, among other defenses, that Plaintiff was its “borrowed employee,” claiming protection under Illinois Workers’ Compensation law.
This is the largest settlement secured in Kane County, surpassing the previous record of $7.5 million set in 2012. Plaintiff also secured a $192,000.00 reduction in his workers’ compensation lien. Kane County Circuit Court Judge John G. Dalton presided over the litigation. Hon. F. Keith Brown (Ret.) was instrumental in reaching resolution.
