Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

A recent settlement in Cook County Circuit Court was obtained for Mykola Berezan, a Chicago man who suffered severe injuries in a construction site accident. Berezan was working as a carpenter’s helper at a Countryside construction site in 2018 when a 30-foot wall collapsed, causing him to require spinal fusion surgery. 

The lawsuit, filed against real estate developer HP Ventures Group, LLC, and Capital Custom Homes, alleged negligence, premises liability, and loss of consortium. Berezan’s legal team, led by Dennis M. Lynch of the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., argued that the defendants failed to provide a safe workplace and ignored ongoing Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) violations related to wall bracing and construction safety protocols.

Lynch emphasized the limited emphasis on safety at the construction site, highlighting the devastating impact on Berezan’s life. At 36 years old, Berezan sustained a spinal cord injury that required multilevel fusion surgery and ongoing physical therapy. Although he has made progress and now walks with ankle braces and a cane, his injuries will affect him for a lifetime. The settlement aims to cover future medical care and supplement Berezan’s income, as he faces challenges finding employment that accommodates his physical limitations and extensive exercise program.

The $13 million settlement, reached in March, reflects the severity of Berezan’s injuries and the responsibility of the defendants. Retired Judge William E. Gomolinski of Gomolinski Mediation facilitated the mediation process, leading to a resolution that provides support for Berezan’s ongoing needs.

In addition to Lynch, Joseph D. Parente and Christopher M. Norem of The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. represented the plaintiffs, while Michael H. Carter of Lewis Brisbois represented Capital Custom Homes. Despite attempts to reach him for comment, Carter could not be reached. Susan Chae Corcoran of Leahy, Eisenberg & Fraenkel, Ltd., represented HP Ventures Group, declining to comment on the case.

The settlement serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety in the construction industry. It also highlights the legal recourse available to individuals injured due to negligence on construction sites. While nothing can fully compensate for the pain and suffering endured by Berezan and his family, the settlement provides financial support and a sense of justice for their ordeal.

As Berezan continues his journey toward recovery, the hope is that his story will raise awareness about the need for stringent safety measures in the workplace, ensuring that tragedies like his can be prevented in the future. If you or someone you know have been injured due to negligence, call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. 

Car accidents are a common occurrence in Illinois, often attributed to various factors, with adverse weather conditions being a significant contributor. Particularly during the early spring months, the lingering winter weather poses heightened risks on the roads. Among the 1.2 million weather-related car accidents that happen annually in the United States, a notable portion occur on icy, snowy, or slushy pavements, with 18 percent transpiring while snow or sleet is actively falling.

Studies confirm Illinois as one of the states witnessing a higher incidence of fatal car accidents during winter, averaging around 27 yearly. This trend continues into the early spring months, amplifying the dangers of winter driving in Illinois. In such cases, individuals involved in accidents caused by negligent drivers during winter weather conditions may pursue compensation through personal injury claims.

Factors Contributing to Spring Snowstorm Vehicle Crashes

Winter conditions introduce numerous hazards that impede safe driving practices, leading to accidents if drivers fail to adjust or respond appropriately. In early spring, snow-related collisions often occur due to:

Reduced Traction: When there have been periods of warm spring like weather: snow, ice, or slush on the roads significantly impairs a driver’s control over their vehicle. Braking distances increase, and vehicles may skid when maneuvering, especially if drivers fail to adjust their speed or maintain safe distances. Additionally, the presence of “black ice” further compounds the risk, as it may not be immediately visible but can affect vehicle stability.

Limited Visibility: Snowstorms, heavy fog, or other winter weather conditions diminish visibility on the roads. Also, inexperienced drivers may not know how to best utilize heat/defrost mechanisms to defog windshields when the temperatures fluctuate between warm and cold. Drivers must exercise caution and reduce speed to enhance their ability to perceive obstacles and other vehicles.

Mechanical Failures: Poor vehicle maintenance exacerbates risks during winter driving. Improperly inflated tires reduce traction, malfunctioning windshield wipers or headlights impair visibility, and mechanical failures compromise overall vehicle control.

Hazardous Roads: Already treacherous roads, such as the busy highways and rural routes in Illinois, become even more perilous with the onset of winter weather during early spring. Precipitation can freeze quickly when the temperature drops before crews can treat driving surfaces. 

Unsafe Driving Practices: Violating traffic laws or driving recklessly escalates the risk of accidents, particularly during winter weather conditions. Behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, tailgating, and failing to adhere to traffic signals pose heightened dangers on snowy or icy roads, increasing the likelihood of collisions and subsequent injuries.

While car accidents occur for a wide variety of reasons, adverse weather conditions are one common factor in collisions that take place in Illinois. Winter weather during the spring months can be especially dangerous. If you or someone you know has been injured due to negligent driving, call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 for a free case evaluation, or fill out a contact form here on our website.  

In recent years, ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have revolutionized the transportation industry, providing convenient and affordable alternatives to traditional taxis and public transit. However, along with their widespread adoption, questions about safety and accident rates have emerged. From 2020 to the present day, examining accident rates associated with Uber and Lyft offers valuable insights into the safety of rideshare services, the factors influencing accident occurrences, and the efforts undertaken by companies to enhance safety measures.

Rideshare Services and Safety Concerns

Ridesharing platforms have become integral parts of urban mobility worldwide. Uber and Lyft, the two most prominent players in the industry, operate in numerous countries, offering millions of rides daily. While these services provide undeniable benefits such as convenience, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility, safety concerns have been raised since their inception.

Several factors contribute to rideshare accidents, including:

Driver Behavior: The behavior of rideshare drivers significantly impacts accident rates. Factors such as speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue can increase the likelihood of accidents.

Road Conditions: Poor road conditions, inclement weather, and construction zones can pose challenges for rideshare drivers, potentially leading to accidents.

Other Drivers: Accidents involving rideshare vehicles can also result from the actions of other drivers on the road, including reckless driving, failure to yield, and driving under the influence.

Vehicle Maintenance: The condition of rideshare vehicles, including maintenance and upkeep, can affect safety. Mechanical failures or issues with brakes, tires, or lights may contribute to accidents.

Passenger Behavior: While less common, passenger behavior can also play a role in rideshare accidents. Actions such as distracting the driver, refusing to wear seatbelts, or becoming aggressive can increase the risk of collisions.

Rideshare Accident Statistics

Uber and Lyft, the household names in ridesharing, have long touted their services as a solution to reduce traffic fatalities, particularly those stemming from drunk driving incidents. Numerous studies have supported this, albeit with some nuances. One study found a “significant decrease in convictions for impaired driving” associated with the introduction of rideshare services, indicating a promising step forward in road safety.

There is undeniable validity in opting for Uber, Lyft, or any rideshare service, especially on a night out involving alcohol. These services provide a convenient and responsible alternative to getting behind the wheel after drinking.

However, the overarching claim that rideshare services inherently reduce overall traffic fatalities remains a topic of contention. Contrary to the optimistic narratives propagated by Lyft and Uber, experts from the University of Chicago found that 3% of the annual increase in vehicular deaths could be linked to the prevalence of rideshare services on the road.

A brief overview of rideshare accident statistics and facts reveals some sobering realities:

• According to the University of Chicago, approximately 987 roadway deaths each year have been linked to the presence of Uber and Lyft drivers, constituting the 3% annual increase in tragic traffic fatalities.
• These rideshare-associated deaths are attributed to the companies’ reliance on a high volume of drivers on the road to ensure prompt response times for consumers.
• Despite the University of Chicago’s findings, a study highlights the positive impact of rideshare services in reducing drunk driving incidents.

In an effort to maintain transparency and accountability, both Uber and Lyft have been publishing annual safety reports since 2017. Let’s take a look at the statistics provided by these reports – 

Uber Accident Statistics and Lyft Accident Statistics:

In 2019 and 2020, Uber claimed that nearly 100% of rideshare trips ended without any safety incidents, with only approximately 0.0002% of trips involving critical safety events.

Lyft reported similar figures in their safety reports, even asserting superiority in certain categories compared to Uber.

Rideshare vehicles are not immune to traffic fatalities. Between 2017 and 2018, Uber cars were involved in nearly 110 accident-related deaths across 97 fatal crashes. In these incidents, riders and drivers each accounted for 21% of the fatalities, with the remaining victims being third parties.

Ridesharing has reshaped transportation, particularly in urban areas. It provides an accessible, on-demand transportation option, impacting public transport usage. During the COVID-19 pandemic, public transportation trips in the US decreased by 53%, while Uber trips only declined by 27%.

This shift indicates a growing preference for ridesharing over traditional public transportation, which may have long-term implications for urban planning and traffic dynamics.

Company Reports and Disclosure

Uber and Lyft regularly release safety reports and disclose accident-related data as part of their commitment to transparency and accountability. These reports typically include information on the number of accidents, fatalities, and injuries involving rideshare vehicles, as well as initiatives and safety measures implemented by the companies.

Government Statistics and Regulatory Oversight

Government agencies responsible for transportation and safety regulation also play a role in monitoring rideshare accident rates and enforcing safety standards. Agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States and equivalent bodies in other countries collect and analyze accident data, conduct investigations, and implement regulations to enhance rideshare safety.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft have transformed the way people move around cities, offering convenience, affordability, and accessibility. However, safety concerns remain a critical issue for both passengers and drivers. From 2020 to the present day, analyzing accident rates associated with Uber and Lyft reveals important insights into the factors influencing safety, the impact of external events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the efforts undertaken by companies to mitigate risk and enhance safety measures.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a rideshare accident, call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 for a free case evaluation or fill out a contact form here on our website. 

This week, The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. would like to introduce you to one of our work injury paralegals, Alexa Soto. Alexa has been with our firm since 2023, and wears many hats! So let’s take a few minutes to get to know her a little better. 

What is your favorite part of working at our firm?

I love working here because of how supportive the attorneys and managers are in guiding and teaching people interested in a legal career.  It’s also inspiring working with people who are dedicated to helping their clients and treat clients with compassion and understanding. 

What’s one thing people don’t know about you that they would be surprised to find out?

I’ve been a pescatarian for 6 years but I took a brief break from it recently until I decided to go back. The only reason I haven’t given up fish is because I love sushi too much. I also dabble in artistic hobbies, I like to bake, paint and embroider, mainly as a creative outlet but I also love seeing a project come to life.

What’s one thing that surprised you about your current role?

There are many opportunities to take on new projects and learn new things!

What do you think makes our team culture unique?

I would say what makes this team unique is how friendly, respectful and encouraging we are of one another. Everyone is also very hardworking and always willing to help each other out.

Lastly, if you could give one piece of advice to aspiring lawyers or those considering a career in the legal field, what would it be? 

Explore different areas of the law, you might end up discovering a new found passion. 

When Alexa isn’t being a rockstar here in the office, she enjoys spending her time writing yelp reviews.

Thanks for taking the time to let us get to know you, Alexa! We couldn’t do what we do without you!

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. settled a Cook County construction case for $13,000,000 shortly before trial. 

On July 12, 2018, a carpenter’s helper, then 30 years old, was working for a rough carpentry crew, BXH Construction, performing work on a townhome project in Countryside, Illinois.  The coworkers were raising and putting in place a 40-foot-long party wall which had been pre-sheeted with drywall.  While they were moving the wall into place with a sledgehammer, it fell over, landing on top of him as he was working on the other side of the wall.  He sustained an L2 burst fracture and underwent emergency fusion surgery from T12 to L3 at Loyola Hospital. He was initially confined to a wheelchair and suffered from bowel and bladder dysfunction. After several years of rehabilitation, he is able to walk long distances with ankle braces and a cane.  

Parente & Norem sued the general contractor, CCH, and the project owner, HPVG.  Discovery revealed that no one at BXH had any OSHA training, and CCH’s superintendent admitted he was not an OSHA competent person.  It was argued that although HPVG knew that CCH was not fulfilling its contractual obligations of providing daily site supervision and accident prevention, it did nothing to enforce its contract.  HPVG maintained that it did nothing wrong and was not contractually obligated to police safety, claiming that CCH was an experienced general contractor and it could and did rely on them.  

Although no one was present from CCH or HPVG at the time of the injury, it was argued that BXH had followed the same faulty bracing and movement procedures multiple times before the incident.  The Defendants contended there was nothing wrong with the bracing procedure and this was a fluke occurrence that could not have been foreseen.  All witnesses agreed that he did nothing wrong.  

The case was set to proceed to trial on April 10, 2024.

The settlement included an assignment of CCH and HPVG’s contribution claims against BXH.  Plaintiff now intends to try the contribution case on April 10, 2024 against his employer, BXH, to eliminate the approximately $1.5 million workers’ compensation lien.   

The case was mediated by retired Judge William Gomolinski. 

The plaintiff was represented by Dennis M. Lynch, Joseph D. Parente, and Christopher M. Norem of Parente & Norem.

CCH was represented by Michael Carter of Lewis Brisbois

HPVG was represented by Dan Boho of Hinshaw and Culbertson, Susan Chae Corcoran of Leahy Eisenberg and Andrew Elbogen of Kopka Pinkus.

BXH was represented by Kasia Nowak of Foley and Mansfield.

If you or someone you know has been injured due to negligence, call/text The Law Offices of Parente and Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on the website. 

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we believe in adding a dash of humor and a pinch of personality to our work day. Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing the first person you talk to when you call us or visit our office, Columba Valentin. Columba’s been with the firm since 2023, and there’s a really good chance you’ve talked to her if you’ve ever worked with us. So let’s get to know Columba!  

If you were to describe your time at Parente & Norem in a single sentence, what would it be? 

Columba: The best law firm with the most friendly and professional staff that I have ever worked for.  

You are famous for your seasonal flair at your desk. What is your favorite season?  Do you have any other creative interests outside of the office?  

Columba: Christmas of course!!!  I have a passion for interior design.

What’s something surprising people may not know about you?  

Columba: When not in the office, I’m at home working on DIY projects with my husband.  I absolutely love home projects.  Also, I had started traveling to different states, but unfortunately COVID and the loss of my father put a temporary stop to it but will be picking up again this year, God willing.

Can you share a story where you had to go above and beyond the call of duty to assist a client, and how you managed to save the day with your quick thinking? 

Columba: At my last employment, a Spanish speaking client had arrived at the wrong office for a deposition (my downtown office) when he was supposed to show up at the Beverly Office and had no translator and no way of logging in. I was alone in the office so I set up my laptop and sat with him for a few hours to translate. Everything turned out perfect!!!

Lastly, if you could give one piece of advice to aspiring lawyers or those considering a career in the legal field, what would it be?  

Columba: Treat your clients like a good friend or relative.  They come to us for help when they have nowhere else to turn.  

When Columba isn’t being a rockstar here in the office she enjoys spending her time dining at new restaurants and giving out reviews. She’s even been told she should start a blog!

Thanks to Columba for taking the time out of her busy schedule to get to know more about her! She is such a wonderful and valued member of the P&N team! 

In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in pedestrian fatalities resulting from vehicle crashes in the United States. From 2010 to 2021, the annual number of pedestrian deaths jumped by a staggering 72%, reaching 7,400 fatalities per year. This surge in pedestrian deaths contrasts sharply with the declining trend in motorist fatalities during the same period.

One significant factor contributing to this alarming rise in pedestrian deaths is the growing popularity of larger vehicles, particularly light trucks such as SUVs, pickups, and vans. These vehicles, accounting for 78% of new passenger vehicles sold or leased in 2021, pose a heightened risk to pedestrians due to their larger size, higher front-end designs, greater crash impact force, and larger blind spots for drivers.

Recent empirical research examines the relationship between vehicle size and pedestrian outcomes, shedding light on the critical role of front-end vehicle height. By analyzing national crash data encompassing 3,400 pedestrian-involved collisions, researchers have found that larger vehicles are significantly more likely to result in pedestrian fatalities, even after controlling for various crash scenarios. Specifically, a 10 cm (approx 4 inches) increase in front-end vehicle height raises the risk of pedestrian death by a substantial 22%. 

While previous studies have examined the impact of vehicle size on road safety, focusing primarily on motorist safety, recent research highlights the disproportionate burden borne by pedestrians, particularly women, children, the elderly, and racial minorities. Low-income and minority populations, in particular, face a heightened risk of pedestrian fatalities due to their greater exposure to high-risk vehicle traffic.

Moreover, the shift towards electric vehicles, projected to increase vehicle weight, raises concerns about further exacerbating pedestrian fatalities. However, research suggests that regulating body design, particularly front-end height, may hold greater promise for mitigating pedestrian risks than focusing solely on vehicle weight.

As larger vehicles continue to dominate the market and replace older, smaller vehicles, the average size of vehicles on US roads is expected to increase further. Without regulatory interventions to address vehicle design standards, pedestrian fatality rates are likely to continue rising, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.

The sharp increase in pedestrian fatalities amidst the growing popularity of larger vehicles underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to enhance pedestrian safety. From regulating vehicle design standards to addressing disparities in risk exposure among various demographic groups, concerted efforts are essential to curb the devastating toll of pedestrian deaths on American roads.

When you’re injured, it can be challenging to assess whether hiring a personal injury attorney is necessary. Initially, you might trust insurance companies to act in your best interest or underestimate the long-term impact of your injuries. However, at the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., our seasoned trial attorneys advocate for your rights and entitlement to compensation. Here are five compelling reasons why seeking legal representation after an injury is crucial:

Insurance Companies Prioritize Profit Over Your Well-being: Despite operating within legal boundaries, insurance companies prioritize profits. Their teams of lawyers aim to minimize settlements. With a personal injury attorney, you level the playing field and ensure dedicated representation for your rights.

Injuries Can Have Unforeseen Consequences: The full extent of your injuries might not be immediately apparent. You deserve compensation not just for current damages but also for potential future impacts, such as pain and suffering or loss of consortium. Our attorneys specialize in assessing these damages to secure appropriate relief.

We Focus on Your Recovery: From the moment you seek medical attention to negotiating fair compensation, our priority is your recovery. If necessary, we proceed to trial to ensure your best interests are served.

Complexities in Determining Liability: In some cases, liability for injuries isn’t clear-cut. Building a strong case requires gathering substantial evidence, including police reports, medical records, and eyewitness testimony. Our experienced attorneys excel in this aspect, ensuring your innocence is proven and negligence is attributed to the responsible party.

Legal Proceedings are Time-Consuming: Pursuing a personal injury claim involves extensive paperwork, negotiations, and legal proceedings. By entrusting these tasks to professionals, you free up time to focus on your recovery and daily life.

The expertise of a personal injury attorney significantly enhances your chances of receiving fair compensation. At the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we’re committed to guiding you through the legal process and securing the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation at 312.641.5926, and let us start you on your path to justice.

Nursing home abuse and neglect is an issue affecting numerous families annually. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), up to 5,000,000 individuals fall victim to elder abuse each year. This is why it is crucial to understand the intricacies surrounding nursing home abuse and neglect. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., our experienced trial attorneys specialize in assisting individuals seeking justice for their loved ones who may have suffered from nursing home abuse or neglect. 

Distinguishing Abuse from Neglect in a Nursing Home Setting

A frequent misconception regarding nursing home abuse and neglect is the notion that abuse solely encompasses physical harm occurring within long-term care facilities. Contrary to this belief, neglect constitutes a form of abuse as well. Even instances of inadvertent neglect can be abusive, with the absence of malicious intent failing to absolve the facility and its staff from liability. Accidents such as administering incorrect medication dosages or providing the wrong medication by mistake can yield severe, life-altering consequences.

Neglect extends beyond these scenarios to encompass staffing deficiencies, inadequate training, and the failure of facilities to conduct thorough employee screenings and background checks. Furthermore, neglect encompasses the failure to promptly report injuries, illnesses, or incidents to family members or guardians. Other manifestations of neglect span medical, social, and emotional neglect, as well as the refusal of fundamental living necessities and neglect of personal hygiene.

Abuse transcends physical injury alone, encompassing emotional, sexual, and financial maltreatment as well.

Identifying Signs of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

Detecting instances of nursing home abuse and neglect can prove challenging, but several common warning signs and symptoms merit attention. These include:

– Abrupt onset of aggression, anxiety, agitation, or significant shifts in personality

– Manifestations of physical harm such as bedsores, fractures, bruises, and burns

– Indicators of malnutrition, dehydration, or sudden alterations in appetite

– Emergence of untreated or newly diagnosed medical conditions

– Disturbances in sleeping patterns or instances of insomnia

– Observations of poor personal hygiene

– Unexplained injuries, illnesses, or behaviors

Supporting Your Loved One

Documenting any alterations, incidents, injuries, or communications with the facility’s staff is paramount. Subsequently, seeking assistance from a seasoned nursing home abuse and neglect attorney is imperative. Contact us at 312.641.5926 for a complimentary case evaluation and your loved one’s path to justice begins with The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C.

In a concerning trend revealed by the Illinois Department of Transportation’s preliminary data, deadly traffic crashes increased by 2.5% in 2023. 

The data provided by IDOT paints a stark picture: there were 1,176 fatal collisions in 2023 – 29 more than the previous year. This alarming increase in vehicular accidents, as noted by DePaul University transportation professor Joseph Schwieterman, contrasts with the declining rates of fatalities in other sectors such as airline, factory, and warehouse accidents.

Specifically, fatal pedestrian crashes increased from 195 in 2022 to 204 in 2023, while incidents involving cyclists spiked by 42, rising from 33 in 2022. Across the state, the overall number of people killed in vehicle crashes climbed to 1,275 in 2023, up from 1,268 in 2022. In the metro region, while traffic deaths decreased in McHenry and Will counties, they rose in Cook, DuPage, Kane, and Lake counties.

With such a concerning surge in traffic-related fatalities, it becomes crucial to understand the legal implications surrounding these incidents. Victims and their families may find themselves facing complex legal challenges in seeking justice and compensation for their losses. A skilled and experienced legal team, like the trial attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. can navigate the intricacies of personal injury and wrongful death claims arising from these tragic events.

It is essential for victims to be aware of their rights and legal options in the aftermath of a traffic accident. Consulting with our knowledgeable attorneys can help assess the circumstances surrounding the incident, identify liable parties, and pursue the appropriate legal recourse.

To effectively address the rising tide of deadly traffic crashes, it is essential to identify the contributing factors. Distracted driving, impaired driving, inadequate road infrastructure, and a lack of pedestrian and cyclist safety measures are among the key elements that demand attention.

Legal professionals specializing in personal injury and wrongful death cases related to traffic accidents can play a pivotal role in holding negligent parties accountable. By thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding each incident, they can build a robust case aimed at securing justice for the victims and their families.

As the numbers of fatal collisions on Illinois roadways continue to rise, it is important for individuals to be aware of their rights and seek legal assistance when needed. A compassionate and knowledgeable legal team can provide invaluable support to those affected by these tragic events, guiding them through the complexities of the legal system and working towards a fair resolution.

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a traffic-related incident, The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is here to help. Contact us today at 312.641.5926 for a free consultation to understand your legal options and take the first steps toward seeking justice.