Bennett Hawkins has filed a lawsuit against the City of Chicago, alleging negligence in maintaining public streets that led to his injury. The complaint was filed on April 14, 2025, in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, naming the City of Chicago as the defendant.
According to the lawsuit, on April 19, 2024, Bennett Hawkins was riding his scooter on Michigan Avenue near Randolph Street when he encountered an unfinished and hazardous street condition. The complaint claims that this condition resulted from negligent repair work by the City of Chicago and its employees. As a result of these alleged negligent acts, Hawkins struck an uncovered pipe hole and was ejected from his scooter, sustaining both external and internal injuries. The plaintiff asserts that these injuries have significantly impacted his ability to perform daily activities and caused him substantial pain and suffering.
The plaintiff's attorneys argue that it was the duty of the City of Chicago to ensure safe conditions for all lawful users of public streets. They accuse the city of failing to meet reasonable standards in street maintenance and repair, thereby creating a dangerous environment for pedestrians and motorists alike. The lawsuit highlights specific failures such as leaving repairs incomplete and not adhering to expected municipal standards for public safety.
Bennett Hawkins is seeking a judgment exceeding $50,000 from the court to cover medical expenses incurred due to his injuries, as well as compensation for lost time and ongoing physical and mental anguish. He requests that the court hold the City of Chicago accountable for their alleged negligence in maintaining a safe public infrastructure.
Representing Bennett Hawkins is attorney Mark Connolly from Connolly Injury Law. The case is identified under Case No. 2025L005052 with Judge Mariyana T. Spyropoulos presiding over proceedings in Cook County's Law Division.