Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

A personal injury case arises when someone suffers harm due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. In Illinois, the legal framework allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for injuries caused by incidents such as car/transportation accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and more. These cases aim to provide financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. On today’s blog, we’ll break down the essentials of personal injury cases in Illinois to help you understand your rights and options.

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Illinois

Car Accidents Car accidents are among the most common personal injury cases in Illinois. Often caused by negligent actions like distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving, these incidents can result in severe injuries. Illinois is a fault-based state, meaning the responsible party’s insurance covers damages.

Example: A driver runs a red light and collides with another vehicle, injuring the other driver. The injured driver can file a claim for medical expenses and lost wages.

Truck Accidents Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These cases may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers of defective truck parts. Federal regulations, such as those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), also come into play.

Example: A truck driver falls asleep at the wheel, causing a multi-vehicle collision on I-294. Victims can pursue claims against the driver and trucking company for negligence.

Slip and Fall Accidents Slip and fall cases, or premises liability claims, occur when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on another’s property. Illinois law requires property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe. Plaintiffs must prove that the owner knew or should have known about the danger but failed to address it.

Example: A grocery store customer slips on a wet floor without warning signs and breaks their arm. The injured party can sue the store for negligence.

Dog Bites Illinois has a strict liability law for dog bites. Dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their pets, provided the victim was lawfully on the property and did not provoke the animal.

Example: A child playing in a neighbor’s yard is bitten by their dog. The parents can file a claim for medical costs and emotional distress.

Wrongful Death When a person dies due to someone else’s negligence or intentional conduct, their family can file a wrongful death claim. Eligible family members, such as a spouse or children, may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

Example: A pedestrian is struck and killed by a drunk driver. The family files a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver for their losses.

Product Liability These cases arise when defective or dangerous products cause injury. Illinois follows strict liability, meaning plaintiffs need only prove the product was defective and caused harm—not that the manufacturer was negligent.

Example: A defective airbag deploys improperly, causing injuries. The injured party can sue the manufacturer for producing a faulty product.

Key Legal Principles in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Negligence Proving negligence involves demonstrating that:

• The defendant owed a duty of care.
• The defendant breached that duty.
• The breach caused the plaintiff’s injury (causation).
• The plaintiff suffered damages.

Comparative Negligence Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re partially at fault for your injury, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Statute of Limitations In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of injury. Missing this deadline likely forfeits your right to compensation.

Damages in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Economic Damages These include measurable financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

Non-Economic Damages Compensation for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

Punitive Damages In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly reckless or malicious behavior.

Navigating Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Burden of Proof The plaintiff must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence—meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant’s actions caused the injury.

Insurance Involvement Insurance companies often defend claims and negotiate settlements. An experienced attorney can help ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Settlement vs. Trial Most cases settle out of court. However, if a fair resolution isn’t possible, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

How We Can Help

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how overwhelming a personal injury can be. Our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. From car accidents to wrongful death claims, we’re here to fight for justice on your behalf.

Contact us today at 312.641.5926 to schedule a free consultation. Your path to justice begins with us.

As the calendar turns to 2025, Illinois residents will experience the impact of hundreds of new laws. From minimum wage hikes to changes in digital ID issuance and subscription management, these updates cover several aspects of daily life. Here’s an overview of some key changes:

Minimum Wage Increases

Starting January 1, 2025, Illinois’ minimum wage will reach $15 per hour. Tipped workers will also see their minimum wage rise from $8.40 an hour to $9 an hour. The law ensures that tipped workers earn at least 60% of the state’s minimum wage, providing greater financial stability for many in the service industry.

Digital Driver’s Licenses and IDs

Under HB4592, Illinoisans can now opt for digital driver’s licenses and IDs. While physical IDs remain available, the state is introducing a smartphone application to register digital versions, with a maximum fee of $6. However, private entities and agencies are not required to accept digital IDs, so physical copies may still be necessary in some situations.

Simplified Gym Membership Cancellations

HB4911 offers more convenience for gym-goers by allowing memberships to be canceled online, via email, or over the phone. This change eliminates the hassle of in-person cancellations.

Subscription Renewal Transparency

SB2764 protects consumers by requiring businesses to notify customers at least three days before an automatic renewal kicks in following a free trial period of 15 days or more. This measure aims to prevent surprise charges and encourage mindful spending.

Expunging Criminal Records

SB3463 amends the Juvenile Court Act, mandating the automatic expungement of juvenile criminal records two years after sentence completion. Expungement hearings will now be scheduled at the time of release, accelerating the process for justice-impacted individuals.

Regulations on Artificial Intelligence

• Child Pornography Laws: HB4623 ensures Illinois’ child pornography laws apply to AI-generated images and videos.
• AI Digital Replicas: HB4875 prohibits the use of unauthorized AI-generated digital replicas in certain content.
• Fair AI in Hiring: HB3773 bars employers from using AI-powered predictive analytics to consider an applicant’s race or zip code when making hiring or firing decisions.

Pay Transparency in Job Postings

An amendment to the Equal Pay Act requires Illinois employers with 15 or more employees to disclose salary ranges and benefits in all job postings. The law applies to remote positions performed in Illinois and includes a 14-day grace period for compliance before fines of $500 are imposed.

Workplace Freedom of Speech

Under SB3649, the Worker Freedom of Speech Act protects employees from disciplinary action for not attending mandatory workplace meetings discussing political or religious views. Nonprofit and advocacy organizations are exempt from this rule.

Preventing Catalytic Converter Thefts

HB4589 targets catalytic converter thefts by requiring recyclers to record vehicle identification numbers (VINs) and obtain proof of ownership from sellers.

Enhanced Protections Under Scott’s Law

HB5370 strengthens Scott’s Law, requiring drivers to change lanes or reduce speed when approaching emergency scenes, stopped emergency vehicles, or construction zones.

Employment Verification Standards

HB0508 prohibits employers from suspending or terminating employees due to discrepancies with E-Verify and bars additional verification requirements beyond federal mandates.

Child Abuse Awareness

HB4350 creates the Child Abuse Notice Act, requiring businesses like schools, daycare centers, hospitals, and bus stations to post notices informing children about physical and sexual abuse and how to report it.

Updated Language in Criminal Justice

An amendment to the Illinois Crime Reduction Act replaces the term “offenders” with “justice-impacted individuals.” The law also establishes the Adult Redeploy Illinois Oversight Board to assist reintegration into public life post-incarceration.

These legislative updates reflect Illinois’ efforts to address economic fairness, consumer protection, public safety, and inclusivity. Stay informed to ensure compliance and take advantage of the benefits these new laws provide.

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but it’s also one of the most dangerous nights of the year to be on the road—or even walking near one. Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reveal that nearly half of all fatal car crashes on New Year’s Day involve drunk drivers. Late night celebrations combined with drinking and driving make this holiday particularly hazardous. Tragically, it’s also one of the deadliest days for pedestrians crossing the street.

As the clock strikes midnight and celebrations wind down, millions of people hit the roads to head home. The sheer volume of traffic, coupled with impaired drivers, creates a perfect storm for accidents. More than 50% of crashes on New Year’s Day involve high blood alcohol concentrations. Law enforcement agencies across the country respond with initiatives like the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, which emphasizes education and rigorous enforcement to keep the roads safer.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we want you and your loved ones to start the New Year safely. Here are our top safety tips to protect yourself and others.

Essential Road Safety Tips

1. Always Wear Your Seatbelt
   Seatbelts save lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelt use saved nearly 15,000 lives in 2017 alone.

2. Secure Children Properly
   Ensure kids are buckled into age and size appropriate car seats in the back seat. These measures can reduce serious injuries to children by 50%.

3. Obey Speed Limits
   Speeding contributes to many fatal accidents and is entirely preventable. Drive within the posted limits.

4. Avoid Distractions
   Put down your phone, avoid adjusting the radio, and don’t eat or groom while driving. Anything that takes your focus off the road, even briefly, increases the risk of an accident.

5. Plan Ahead
   Arrange for a designated driver, book a hotel, or schedule a ride via shuttle, limo, or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

6. Consider Sober Ride Programs
   Many cities offer free or low-cost sober ride programs during the holidays. Research your local options and share them with friends.

7. Use Public Transportation
   Buses, trains, and other public transit options can be reliable and safe alternatives to driving.

8. Secure Your Vehicle
   If you need to leave your car overnight, park in a well-lit, populated area. Lock your doors and keep valuables out of sight.

9. Drink Responsibly
   Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment, reaction times, and vision. Avoid driving if you’ve had anything to drink, and remember that prescription drugs can also impair driving abilities.

10. Call for Help if Necessary
    If you’re unable to secure a ride home, call 311 for assistance. It’s better to seek help than risk an accident.

Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident? Help Is Available

Unfortunately, even with precautions, accidents happen. If you or a loved one is involved in a drunk driving-related incident, it’s critical to act quickly. The experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem are here to help. We understand the complexities of personal injury law and are committed to securing justice for our clients.

Contact us for a free consultation by calling 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. Don’t let the poor decision-making of an intoxicated driver ruin your New Year.

Stay safe, make smart choices, and let’s all work together to ensure a happier, healthier start to the year!

Source: [American Safety Council – New Year’s Eve Safety Tips]

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized transportation, offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. Millions of people rely on these platforms daily, but with their rapid rise, safety concerns have also come to the forefront. By examining accident rates from 2020 to today, we can shed light on the safety of rideshare services, the factors contributing to incidents, and what companies are doing to enhance safety for both passengers and drivers.

The Safety Concerns Surrounding Ridesharing

Ridesharing platforms have become staples of urban mobility, but the increased presence of Uber and Lyft vehicles on the road has raised important questions about safety. Several factors can influence rideshare accident rates, including:

• Driver Behavior: Speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue are common issues among rideshare drivers, many of whom work long hours.
• Road Conditions: Hazards such as poor weather, construction zones, or damaged roadways increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Other Drivers: Rideshare accidents often involve third-party drivers engaging in reckless or negligent behavior.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanical failures, such as brake or tire issues, can play a role in rideshare accidents.
• Passenger Behavior: Distracted or disruptive passengers may unintentionally contribute to dangerous situations.

The Numbers Behind Rideshare Accidents

Uber and Lyft have marketed themselves as safe alternatives to traditional transportation, particularly by reducing incidents of drunk driving. Studies support this claim to an extent, showing decreased DUI rates in areas where ridesharing is prevalent. However, rideshare services are not without risks.

Key Statistics:

• Research from the University of Chicago attributes a 3% annual increase in traffic fatalities to the rise of rideshare services, equating to approximately 987 roadway deaths each year.
• Uber’s safety reports indicate that nearly 100% of rides between 2019 and 2020 concluded without safety incidents. Still, 0.0002% of trips involved critical safety events.
• Between 2017 and 2018, Uber vehicles were involved in 97 fatal crashes, resulting in nearly 110 deaths. Passengers, drivers, and third parties each accounted for significant portions of these fatalities.
• Lyft’s data echoes similar trends, with slightly lower accident involvement rates compared to Uber.

The Impact of the Pandemic on Ridesharing:

The COVID-19 pandemic brought significant shifts in transportation trends. While public transit usage in the U.S. dropped by 53%, Uber trips declined by only 27%, signaling a growing preference for ridesharing over traditional public transportation. This shift may have long-term implications for urban traffic patterns and safety dynamics.

What Are Uber and Lyft Doing About Safety?

Both Uber and Lyft have made efforts to increase transparency and improve safety through regular safety reports. These reports outline accident statistics, fatality rates, and initiatives aimed at mitigating risks. Key safety measures include:

• Enhanced Driver Screening: Comprehensive background checks and driving history reviews.
• In-App Safety Features: Emergency assistance buttons, real-time location sharing, and ride verification tools.
• Driver and Passenger Education: Awareness campaigns about seatbelt use, proper behavior, and adherence to road safety laws.

Government Oversight and Safety Regulations

Government agencies like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) monitor rideshare accident rates and enforce safety standards. These agencies play a vital role in analyzing data, conducting investigations, and implementing regulations to improve rideshare safety.

Injured in a Rideshare Accident? We Can Help.

Rideshare services have undeniably transformed how we travel. While they offer a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional transportation, safety concerns persist. Whether you’re a passenger, driver, or third party affected by a rideshare accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an Uber or Lyft accident, contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 today. Call or text us for a free case evaluation, or fill out the contact form on our website.

Losing a loved one is an unimaginable hardship, especially when their death is caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct. In such cases, a wrongful death lawsuit can provide grieving families with the justice and financial compensation they deserve. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we are here to help you navigate this challenging process.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action filed by the family or estate of a person who has passed away due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. This legal process aims to compensate the deceased’s family for their loss, including:

• Medical expenses and burial costs
• Loss of income the deceased would have provided
• Pain and suffering endured by surviving family members

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In most cases, the personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A personal representative is often named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the court if no will exists. While this role is typically filled by a close family member, some states impose restrictions on non-family members serving as personal representatives. Be sure to consult local laws or seek legal advice to understand the rules in your jurisdiction.

Why You Need an Attorney for a Wrongful Death Case

Wrongful death lawsuits are complex, requiring a deep understanding of both the law and the specific circumstances of the case. Here’s how an experienced attorney can help:

• Navigating the legal process: Your attorney will guide you through each step, ensuring no critical detail is overlooked.
• Building a strong case: Attorneys know what evidence is needed; such as medical records, witness statements, or accident reports, and how to present it effectively.
• Maximizing compensation: A skilled lawyer will advocate for fair compensation, taking into account all damages and losses.

Types of Damages in Wrongful Death Cases

The compensation awarded in a wrongful death lawsuit often includes two primary categories of damages:

Compensatory Damages:

• • Funeral and burial costs
  • Medical expenses related to the accident or illness
  • Loss of income and financial support
  • Loss of companionship and emotional suffering

Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, courts may award additional damages to punish the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

Preparing for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

To build a strong case, it’s crucial to gather evidence promptly. This may include:

• Photos or videos of the incident
• Police reports or witness statements
• Medical and financial records

By acting quickly, you ensure that valuable evidence is preserved and the statute of limitations does not expire.

Choosing the Right Attorney for Your Case

Selecting the right attorney is a vital step in pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit. Here are some tips:

• Research thoroughly: Look for attorneys with proven experience handling wrongful death cases.
• Schedule consultations: Use these meetings to ask questions about their approach and track record.
• Read reviews and testimonials: Client feedback can offer valuable insight into an attorney’s reputation and success rate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To improve your chances of a favorable outcome, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Delaying evidence collection: Time-sensitive evidence, such as witness statements or physical evidence, can be lost if not secured promptly.
• Failing to meet deadlines: Missing filing deadlines due to statute of limitations laws can prevent you from pursuing your case.
• Going without legal representation: Without an experienced attorney, navigating the complexities of a wrongful death lawsuit can be overwhelming.

Understanding the Costs and Outcomes

While wrongful death lawsuits can involve significant costs, including attorney fees and court expenses, many firms (like ours) operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only collect fees if we win your case.

Outcomes vary based on the specifics of the case, with most cases resulting in a settlement. However, if a trial is necessary, we will fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us Today for Help

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face this journey alone. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, we’re committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

Call/text us at 312-641-5926 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. We’re available to discuss your case and provide the compassionate support you need.

What to Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse or Neglect

Choosing a nursing home or long-term care facility for a loved one is a deeply personal and often difficult decision. While these facilities should provide safety and care, the unfortunate reality is that nursing home abuse and neglect are more common than many realize. If you suspect that your loved one may be a victim, knowing what steps to take can make all the difference.

Understanding Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Nursing home abuse can take many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, or financial. Neglect, on the other hand, occurs when residents are not provided with the care they need to maintain their health and well-being. Both are serious and can have devastating consequences for your loved one.

Common signs of abuse or neglect include:

• Unexplained injuries: Bruises, burns, or cuts that cannot be adequately explained.
• Bedsores or hygiene issues: Indicators of neglect in daily care.
• Behavioral changes: Withdrawal, fearfulness, or other sudden emotional shifts.
• Unusual financial activity: Missing belongings or unauthorized transactions.
• Malnutrition or dehydration: Poor physical condition due to insufficient care.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Abuse or Neglect

If you believe your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, take these critical steps:

1. Document the Signs

Start by carefully observing and recording any signs of abuse or neglect. Maintain a detailed log, including photographs, videos, and written descriptions. Include the date and time of each incident, as well as any relevant names of staff members. These records will be crucial if you need to pursue legal action.

2. Report to the Nursing Home Administration

Bring your concerns to the nursing home administration, such as the administrator or director of nursing. Present your documented evidence and request immediate action.

If you are uncomfortable reporting to the facility or believe they are not addressing the issue, contact the Illinois Department of Public Health (or the appropriate regulatory body in your state). These agencies are responsible for investigating abuse and neglect complaints.

3. Consult with an Attorney

An experienced nursing home abuse attorney can help you navigate this challenging situation. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand the complexities of these cases and can guide you through filing a complaint, pursuing legal action, and protecting your loved one’s rights.

4. Consider Relocating Your Loved One

If you believe your loved one’s safety is at risk, consider moving them to another facility. This ensures their well-being while the investigation or legal process is underway.

5. Follow Up and Monitor the Situation

Stay vigilant even after addressing your concerns. Regular visits and open communication with staff can help ensure your loved one continues to receive the care and respect they deserve.

Taking action when you suspect nursing home abuse or neglect is vital to protecting your loved one and holding facilities accountable. By documenting the signs, reporting your concerns, seeking legal assistance, and staying involved, you can help ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being.

If you suspect your loved one is a victim of nursing home abuse or neglect, our team at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is here to help. Call or text us at 312.641.5926, or fill out the contact form on our website to schedule a consultation.

This Thanksgiving, the U.S. is set to experience record-breaking travel numbers, with an estimated 79.9 million people journeying 50 miles or more between November 26 and December 2. Of these, 71.7 million will travel by car, marking a 1.8% increase over last year. Here’s what you need to know if you’re hitting the road:

Busiest Travel Days

• Tuesday, November 26 and Wednesday, November 27 are predicted to be the most congested days. The worst times to travel are in the afternoon (1 PM to 7 PM), as commuters mix with holiday travelers.
• If possible, plan to drive during off-peak hours: before 10 AM on these days or on Thanksgiving morning itself, when traffic tends to be light.

Regional Traffic Insights

• The Chicagoland Area is expected to see the highest amount of congestion along its main arteries and interstate highways, especially I90, I94, and I55. Also expect delays around both O’Hare and Midway airports. 
• Major cities like New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., are expected to see traffic levels more than double their usual volume. Routes like I-95 and I-5 could face significant delays.
• Traffic on the Sunday following Thanksgiving will also peak, especially in urban areas as travelers return home.

Tips to Beat the Traffic

• Use navigation apps that factor in real-time traffic conditions.
• Avoid peak travel times: early mornings and late evenings are often the best options for a smoother drive.
• Monitor weather reports, as wet or snowy conditions are forecasted in some regions, which could worsen delays.

Safety and Preparedness

• Check your vehicle for road readiness (tire pressure, fluids, and emergency kits).
• Only use alternate routes you are familiar with. 
• Carry snacks, water, and entertainment for longer-than-expected delays.
• Stay updated with local news and traffic advisories.

By planning strategically, you can reduce stress and spend more time enjoying the holiday with family and friends. Stay safe and have a happy Thanksgiving!

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was featured in the latest issue of Chicago Lawyer Magazine. Chris Norem was featured for his Plaintiff Attorney Achievement Award win at the 2024 JVR Awards for Trial Award Excellence. Parente & Norem was also notably ranked 16th out of 112 firms in this issue. To read more, visit Chicago Lawyer Magazine. 

When you or someone you know has been injured due to negligence, the thought of hiring a personal injury attorney can be intimidating. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. we want to give you the confidence to reach out if you have any questions and want to see if you have a case to pursue. On today’s blog, let’s walk you through what a free case evaluation looks like at our firm. 

Your First Call/Text or Contact Form

Whenever you reach out to Parente & Norem, your information is immediately given to our intake team. Outside of business hours, your contact information will be taken, and someone will reach out to you by the next business day. If it is during business hours, a member of the team will ask you some preliminary questions, and then ask you about the incident that left you injured. It’s important during this call to be as accurate and detailed as possible. You will need specific information like the date of the incident, who was involved, where the incident occurred, what happened, your specific injury and the medical treatment you have received thus far, any available police reports, incident reports, and insurance information. The more detailed and organized you can be before reaching out, the better. 

Once your initial intake has been completed, it will be referred to the appropriate attorney based on the type of case it is. That attorney will then review the details that were given during your initial call, and reach out to you again if additional information is needed. 

Next Steps

While the goal is always to start building your case immediately, it’s not unusual for some time to pass from your original call to when you are given the next steps. This can be for a myriad of reasons, but usually this is a period of information gathering to make sure our firm is a good fit for your case. During this time, you should continue to note everything going on as well as all of the medical treatment you are receiving. 

Determining Whether or Not We Take Your Case

Several factors will contribute to whether or not Parente & Norem accepts your case. First and foremost our firm wants to make sure that we are the optimal attorneys to represent you for the best possible outcome. It is not our intention to pressure you into signing with our firm if it is not a case we can effectively represent. 

If we decline to take you on as a client, it isn’t necessarily because you don’t have a case and you should continue your search. 

When you’ve been injured, it never hurts to have an attorney look at your case. If you would like your own free case evaluation, call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 or fill out a free case evaluation form here on our website.