Roofer sues former employer alleging he was illegally terminated

A roofer alleges he lost his roofing job after he filed for workers' compensation benefits.

David Dawson filed a lawsuit Jan. 26 in Madison County Circuit Court against Frank Hunt doing business as H&D Roofing.

According to the suit, Dawson was working for H&D Roofing on Sept. 25, 2013, when he sustained accidental injuries.  Following the incident, Dawson says he filed a claim under the Workers' Compensation Act and sought medical treatment and time off from work.

H&D Roofing terminated Dawson the same day, the suit alleges.

"The motive for plaintiff's termination was defendant's desire and motive to retaliate against plaintiff because he had exercised his rights under the Illinois Workers' Compensation Act," the complaint says.

Because of his job loss, Dawson claims he lost wages, lost health and dental insurance, lost seniority and 401(k) benefits and experienced pain and suffering and emotional distress.

Dawson seeks a judgment of more than $100,000, plus costs and punitive damages.

Attorneys Thomas C. Rich, Kristina D. Cooksey and Michelle M. Rich, of Fairview Heights, will represent Dawson.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 15-L-95.