Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. were proud sponsors of the International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 2 Annual “Chuck Oliva Memorial Picnic” at Haunted Trial Amusement Park in Burbank, IL.  A fun time for the Local 2 members, family and friends. Our team was represented by Attorney Cole Munvez and his daughter.  The picnic was full of fun hang outs, games, and bouncy houses.  Thank you IUEC Local 2 for letting Parente & Norem join the fun!

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) revealed a startling increase in bicycle accidents reported throughout the state in 2022. New data shows that bicycle accidents were up in Illinois by 8%. This distressing trend not only raises concerns about the safety of cyclists but also highlights the profound impact of car culture on our roads. In this article, we delve into the rising number of bicycle accidents in Illinois, while looking into the intricate relationship between these incidents and our car-centric society.

The Influence of Car Culture

Car culture refers to the dominance of automobiles in society, shaping infrastructure, transportation policies, and even attitudes towards alternative forms of transportation. In Illinois, as in many other states, car culture has become deeply ingrained, resulting in a host of challenges for cyclists. Let us explore some key ways in which car culture impacts bicycle safety:

Infrastructure Disparities: The infrastructure in Illinois, like in many other states, has primarily focused on accommodating motor vehicles, often neglecting the needs of cyclists. Limited bicycle lanes, inadequate signage, and a lack of protective barriers contribute to the vulnerability of cyclists, placing them at a higher risk of accidents.

Distracted Driving: With the rise of technology and the increasing prevalence of smartphones, distracted driving has become a widespread issue. Drivers preoccupied with their devices are more likely to overlook cyclists and fail to share the road responsibly, leading to avoidable accidents.

Lack of Education: Insufficient education and awareness about sharing the road with cyclists contributes to the perilous conditions for those on two wheels. Many drivers are unfamiliar with the rules and etiquette of sharing the road with cyclists, resulting in risky maneuvers, unsafe passing, and increased collision risks.

Speeding and Aggressive Driving: The car culture’s emphasis on speed and convenience often leads to aggressive driving behavior. Speeding drivers pose a significant threat to cyclists, as the increased velocity reduces reaction time and amplifies the potential for severe accidents.

The consequences of the rise in bicycle accidents extend far beyond the numbers. Lives are irrevocably altered, families are devastated, and communities are left grappling with the aftermath. Cyclists face physical injuries, psychological trauma, and the financial burden of medical bills and property damage. Furthermore, society as a whole suffers from reduced health outcomes, increased congestion, and a diminished quality of life when alternative transportation options are not adequately supported.

Promoting Change and Improving Safety

Addressing the alarming surge in bicycle accidents requires a multifaceted approach that involves various stakeholders, including policymakers, law enforcement, urban planners, and the general public. Here are some potential solutions to enhance bicycle safety and counter the negative impact of car culture:

Infrastructure Investment: Allocating resources to develop comprehensive and safe cycling infrastructure is essential. Increasing the number of dedicated bicycle lanes, improving signage, and implementing protective measures, such as barriers and traffic-calming measures, can significantly reduce accidents.

Public Awareness and Education: Educating both motorists and cyclists about road safety is paramount. Public campaigns emphasizing the importance of sharing the road, providing information on relevant traffic laws, and promoting respectful and responsible behavior can foster a culture of safety.

Stricter Enforcement: Enforcing existing traffic laws and imposing penalties for violations, such as distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior, can act as a deterrent and encourage safer driving practices.

Community Engagement: Encouraging community involvement through events, workshops, and advocacy groups can create a sense of ownership and shared responsibility for road safety. Collaborating with local organizations, schools, and businesses can foster a culture that values and prioritizes the safety of all road users.

The surge in bicycle accidents reported by the Illinois Department of Transportation in 2022 sheds light on the pressing need to address the influence of car culture on our roads. Through a comprehensive approach that encompasses infrastructure improvements, public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement, and community engagement, we can create safer conditions for cyclists and reduce the alarming statistics. It is crucial for all stakeholders to recognize the urgency of the issue and work together to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and secure transportation landscape that prioritizes the safety of every road user, regardless of their chosen mode of transportation.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. 

Roofers Cup 2023

Harborside International Golf Club, Chicago IL

Parente & Norem were proud to support Chicago Roofers & Waterproofers Charitable Foundation. This charity focuses on pediatric cancer patients and veterans in need. 

Our team was represented by our Public Relations department Kelly Nebesnyk and Lauren Owczarek, as well as Parente & Norem Worker’s Compensation Attorney, Taylor Matichak. This outing was full of golf, networking, and delicious food! We are so grateful for the opportunity to attend and support this event. 

Pipefitters Local 597 

Pictured: Doc Gregory (Will/Grundy Building Trades President), Larry Weaver, Tim Hartnett, Kelly Nebesnyk

IBEW Local 176 

Pictured: Matt Kenney, Wayne Newman, Andy Rico (Business Manager), Derrick Wilkins

In our modern consumer-driven society, we rely on products to enhance our lives, provide convenience, and ensure our safety. However, there are instances when defective or malfunctioning products can cause significant harm, resulting in personal injuries and financial losses. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is crucial to understand why hiring a personal injury attorney is essential to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Expertise in Product Liability Laws

Navigating the complex legal landscape of product liability cases requires specialized knowledge and experience. Our personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. specialize in product liability and understand the intricate laws and regulations governing these cases. They can help you determine who may be held responsible for your injuries, whether it’s the manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or another party in the supply chain.

Thorough Investigation and Case Building

A skilled personal injury attorney will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, analyze the product’s defects or malfunctions, and establish the causal link between the product and your injuries. They work with experts, such as engineers and industry professionals, to build a strong case on your behalf. This comprehensive approach ensures that all relevant details are considered, increasing the chances of a successful claim.

Advocacy and Negotiation

When dealing with a defective or malfunctioning product, you may find yourself facing powerful corporations and their legal teams. Hiring a personal injury attorney levels the playing field. Your attorney becomes your advocate, representing your best interests and fighting for your rights. They have the negotiation skills necessary to engage in discussions with insurance companies and other parties involved, ensuring that you are not taken advantage of and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.

Calculating Damages

Determining the full extent of your damages can be challenging without legal expertise. A personal injury attorney will evaluate all aspects of your case, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and potential long-term effects of the injury. They work with economic and medical experts to accurately calculate the value of your claim, ensuring that you pursue an appropriate amount of compensation to cover your past, present, and future losses.

Litigation Support

While most personal injury cases are settled out of court, some may require litigation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, having a personal injury attorney by your side is crucial. They have the litigation experience necessary to represent you effectively in court, presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury. With their guidance, you can navigate the complexities of the courtroom and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Peace of Mind

Dealing with the aftermath of a personal injury caused by a defective or malfunctioning product can be incredibly stressful. By hiring a personal injury attorney, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that a skilled professional is handling the legal aspects of your case. Their expertise and guidance alleviate the burden, allowing you to have peace of mind during this challenging time.

Encountering a defective or malfunctioning product can have severe consequences for your well-being and finances. Hiring a personal injury attorney is vital to ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve. Their expertise in product liability laws, ability to conduct thorough investigations, advocacy skills, and negotiation expertise are invaluable in building a strong case. With a personal injury attorney by your side, you can pursue justice, obtain fair compensation, and focus on your recovery, knowing that your best interests are being represented.

If you or a loved one have been injured by a defective or malfunctioning product, call/text us today at 312.641.5926, or fill out a contact form here on our website. 

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. 

Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments where accidents can occur due to a multitude of factors. When injuries happen, they can have a profound impact on the lives of those involved. If you or a loved one has been involved in a construction site accident, it is vital to seek the guidance of the skilled personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. This article will explore the importance of contacting a personal injury attorney following such an incident; highlighting their invaluable expertise and the potential benefits they can offer.

Understanding the Complexities of Construction Site Accidents

Construction site accidents often involve a web of complex legal and regulatory frameworks. Personal injury attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of construction accident law, allowing them to navigate the specific challenges associated with these cases. From identifying responsible parties to assessing liability and negligence, an experienced attorney will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Evaluating the Extent of Damages

Construction site accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic injuries and even fatalities. Determining the true extent of your damages goes beyond immediate medical expenses. A skilled personal injury attorney will work diligently to assess the full scope of your injuries, accounting for medical bills, ongoing treatment, loss of income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future rehabilitation needs. By thoroughly evaluating your damages, they can seek fair and just compensation on your behalf.

Establishing Liability

One of the primary challenges in construction site accidents is identifying the responsible party or parties. Construction sites often involve multiple contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and even government entities. Personal injury attorneys have the necessary resources and expertise to investigate the accident thoroughly. They will gather evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts, and analyze safety protocols to establish liability. Holding the appropriate parties accountable is crucial for obtaining the compensation you deserve.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Following a construction site accident, insurance companies representing various entities involved will likely approach you with settlement offers. It is essential to understand that insurance adjusters are primarily focused on minimizing their company’s financial exposure. Having a personal injury attorney by your side provides you with a powerful advocate who can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They will fight for your rights and ensure that any settlement offer is fair and reflective of your injuries and losses.

Maximizing Compensation

Personal injury attorneys are skilled negotiators, working diligently to secure the maximum compensation available in your case. They possess an in-depth understanding of the factors that can affect the value of your claim. By carefully evaluating the evidence, they will build a strong case that emphasizes the severity of your injuries, the impact on your life, and any future implications. With their expertise, they can pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages you may be entitled to under the law.

Representing You in Litigation, If Necessary

While many personal injury cases are resolved through settlement negotiations, some may require litigation. In such instances, having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who is skilled in trial advocacy becomes invaluable. They will guide you through the litigation process, representing your interests before a judge and jury. Their courtroom experience and expertise in construction accident law will provide you with the best chance of obtaining a favorable outcome.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a construction site accident, reaching out to a personal injury attorney is paramount. Their expertise in construction accident law, experience with insurance companies, and ability to navigate the complexities of these cases will help ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to personal injury claims, so don’t hesitate to call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926, or fill out a contact form here on our website for a free case evaluation. 

This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. 

This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice.

If you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Illinois, it is important to take certain steps in order to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to for your injuries.

First and foremost, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not think your injuries are serious, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional to ensure that there are no hidden injuries that may manifest later. Additionally, seeking medical attention will create a record of your injuries, which can be important evidence in any legal proceedings related to the accident.

Once you have received medical attention, it is important to document the accident as thoroughly as possible. This includes taking photographs of the accident scene, any damage to your bicycle or other property, and your injuries. If there were any witnesses to the accident, be sure to obtain their contact information, as their testimony may be helpful in establishing liability.

Next, report the accident to the police. In Illinois, any accident involving injury or property damage in excess of $1,500 must be reported to law enforcement. The police will investigate the accident and create a report documenting their findings. This report can be important evidence in any legal proceedings related to the accident.

After reporting the accident to the police, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. The personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem P.C., can advise you on your legal rights and help you navigate the complexities of the legal system. Additionally, an attorney can help you gather and preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.

In Illinois, the law allows injured parties to seek compensation for their injuries through a personal injury lawsuit or an insurance claim. In either case, it is important to establish liability for the accident in order to recover damages. Liability can be established in a number of ways, including by showing that the driver of a motor vehicle was negligent or that a defective road or bicycle was a contributing factor in the accident.

If the accident was caused by a driver of a motor vehicle, the injured party may be able to recover damages from the driver’s insurance company. Illinois law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, which provides coverage for injuries and damages caused by the driver. An experienced personal injury attorney can help injured parties negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that they receive the compensation they are entitled to under the law.

If the accident was caused by a defective road or bicycle, the injured party may be able to recover damages from the municipality or the manufacturer of the bicycle. In such cases, it is important to work with an attorney who has experience in product liability or premises liability law in order to establish liability and recover damages.

In addition to compensation for medical expenses and property damage, injured parties may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident. Our attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. can help injured parties determine what damages they are entitled to and negotiate with insurance companies or represent them in court to recover those damages.

In order to ensure that injured parties receive the compensation they are entitled to, it is important to act quickly and seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident. The sooner our attorneys can begin working on a case, the better the chances of a successful outcome.

In conclusion, if you have been injured in a bicycle accident in Illinois, it is important to seek medical attention, document the accident, report it to the police, and contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. By taking these steps, injured parties can protect their legal rights and ensure that they receive the compensation they are entitled to for their injuries.

If you have been involved in a bicycle accident and would like to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys, call The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. 

This article is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. 

What is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action that can be filed by the family members of a person who has been killed due to the negligence or misconduct of another party. A wrongful death claim allows families to recover compensation for their loss, including:

• Medical expenses and burial costs
• Loss of income due to the deceased’s death
• Pain and suffering endured by surviving family members

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

If you are the personal representative of your loved one’s estate, then you have the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit. A personal representative is someone who has been appointed by the court to handle all of the affairs of an estate when there is no will or trust in place. This person usually takes on this responsibility because he or she was named as such in their loved one’s last will and testament, but sometimes it happens if there was no formal document stating what should happen with their assets after they die (for example, if they died without leaving behind any heirs). In this case, whoever was responsible for filing paperwork with government agencies like Social Security would be considered a personal representative as well; however, it’s important to note that not every state allows non-family members such as friends or acquaintances from serving in this role so check local laws before proceeding further down this path!

The Benefits of Having an Attorney Represent You in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The benefits of having an attorney represent you in a wrongful death lawsuit are many. First, it’s important to note that these cases can be extremely complicated and difficult to navigate on your own. Your attorney will have experience with the legal process, which means they can help guide you through it as well as explain any steps along the way that may seem unclear or confusing. Additionally, having an experienced lawyer by your side gives you an advantage over other parties involved in the case because they will know what evidence needs to be presented in order for their claim to succeed – something that might not come up during initial meetings with other parties’ lawyers/representatives (or even yours).

Finally, having someone who knows how best handle all aspects of litigation means that they’ll be able to ensure everything goes smoothly from start until finish – including court appearances if necessary!

Types of Damages in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a wrongful death lawsuit, the plaintiff can recover damages for loss of companionship and financial support. These are called compensatory damages. They include:

• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills related to the accident or illness that caused death (if those bills were paid by insurance)
• Loss of income from work or other activities that would have been performed by the deceased person if he/she had not died. This includes money lost during any period when you were unable to work because of grief or mental anguish resulting from your loved one’s death.

There are other types of damages available in a wrongful death case as well; these include punitive damages and statutory damages (see below).

Preparing for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, it is important to understand what steps you should take in order for your case to be successful.

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action brought against someone who has caused the death of another person through their actions or inaction. The goal of these lawsuits is not only compensation for medical bills and funeral costs, but also to punish those responsible for causing the harm in question. This can help prevent similar tragedies from occurring again in the future by deterring others from engaging in similar behavior.

The first thing that any potential plaintiff needs before filing suit is evidence: photos showing how close together two cars were when they collided; videos taken by bystanders showing how quickly one driver was driving before hitting another vehicle; police reports detailing what happened when an officer arrived at scene after hearing about an accident on his radio scanner (and so forth). This kind of information will help attorneys determine whether there’s enough evidence against defendants’ legal defenses such as contributory negligence (when both parties share responsibility) or comparative negligence (when one party bears more responsibility than another).

How to Choose an Attorney for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Choosing a lawyer for your wrongful death case is an important decision. There are several things you can do to make sure you choose the right attorney for your needs and circumstances:

Researching attorneys is key when choosing an attorney for a wrongful death lawsuit, as it will give you insight into their experience and reputation. You should look at their websites and social media accounts to see what kind of work they have done in the past, as well as how much experience they have with cases similar to yours. It’s also helpful if they have been featured in any newspapers or magazines that cover legal issues, because this shows that there is public interest in what they do!

Scheduling consultations with potential attorneys will allow both parties (the client and attorney) time together so that each party knows exactly what type of service will be provided by one another before signing any contracts/agreements. Interviewing attorneys before hiring them helps ensure both sides know exactly what kind of services will be provided by one another after signing contracts/agreements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

There are a number of common mistakes that people make when trying to file a wrongful death lawsuit. The most important thing to remember is that you should hire an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and ensure your case has the best chance of success.

Here are some other things you should avoid:

Failing to gather evidence in a timely manner. If someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s death, they may try to argue that they were not at fault because there wasn’t enough time between the incident and their death for them to file suit against them (this is called ‘statute of limitations’). Make sure that all relevant evidence is gathered as soon as possible after becoming aware of what happened–this includes photos or video footage from witnesses; medical records showing injuries sustained during an accident; police reports filed by officers who responded at accident scenes; written statements made by witnesses who saw what happened before or after accidents occurred…the list goes on!

The Cost of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The cost of a wrongful death lawsuit can vary greatly, depending on the circumstances surrounding your case. Attorney fees and court costs are typically the largest expenses that you will incur during litigation, but there may also be other associated expenses such as medical records, expert witness testimony and depositions.

The amount of money awarded for damages in a wrongful death lawsuit depends on several factors including:

• The nature of the negligence or wrongdoing (was it reckless? intentional?)
• The age of your loved one at time of death; if they were young children or elderly adults who had lived full lives already, then their loss will be felt more acutely than someone who had not yet reached middle age when they died.

The Outcome of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The outcome of a wrongful death lawsuit is dependent on the facts of your case and the law in your state. The most common result is a settlement, where both parties agree to resolve their dispute without going to trial. If you do not reach an agreement with the defendant before trial, then your case will go before a jury who will decide whether or not they believe that you have proven all elements necessary for recovery under your claim. If they do find in favor of you, they can award damages based on those findings.

If there is no settlement and instead judgment is entered against the defendant(s), this means that there was no dispute between them over liability (i.e., whether or not there was negligence) but rather only over how much compensation should be paid out by each party involved in causing harm or loss due to negligence (or other wrongful conduct).

Conclusion

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, it’s important to know your rights. If you’ve lost someone to wrongful death, it’s even more critical that you understand how the process works and what steps need to be taken.

If you’re looking for more information on wrongful death lawsuits and how they work, please contact The Law Offices of Parente and Norem today at 312.641.5926, or fill out the contact form here on our website. We’re here 24/7!

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is proud to congratulate Christopher M. Norem, Dennis M. Lynch, and Joseph D. Parente for achieving the highest settlement in the $11M category as published in the December 2022 edition of Jury Verdict Reporter. Way to go, team! 

 $6.785M settlement (plus the complete waiver of a $269K worker’s comp. lien) in the matter of Juan Hernandez Aguilar v. Kinzie Builders, LLC, et al. (2018 L 010486) pending in Cook County, IL before the Honorable Judge Jerry A. Esrig.

This matter settled late Friday afternoon (10/28) following motions in limine,  which occurred earlier in the week.  Jury selection was scheduled to begin Monday, 10/31/22.

Juan Hernandez Aguilar is a 41 year-old bricklayer foreman working for Third-Party Defendant, Hill Masonry, Inc. in Lake County, Illinois on a large town home and apartment project known as “Deer Park Crossing.” The General Contractor on the project was Kinzie Builders, LLC and the Carpentry Subcontractor on the project was Horizon Carpentry, Inc.

On January 26, 2018, Juan and his crew were assigned to work on  a building that was in need of a masonry repair in the garage area on the ground floor.  While he and his crew were working on the repair, a 70lb sheet of plywood fell out of a second story window of the building striking him on the top of his head and fracturing his C6 vertebrae requiring a C5-C7 double level fusion surgery with plates.  After 10 months of rehabilitation Juan returned to his position as a foreman bricklayer for Hill Masonry in a “Medium” job capacity.  His employer accommodates his permanent restrictions.

The plywood was brought onto the job site by the Carpentry Subcontractor, Horizon Carpentry, and left sticking out of the second story window for several days prior to the event.  The General Contractor, Kinzie recognized the unsafe condition presented by the plywood the day before the event and ordered the carpenters to remove it but they did not do so prior to high winds displacing one of the sheets causing it to fall onto Juan.

On October 1, 2021, Judge Esrig granted plaintiff’s motion for leave to plead punitive damages against Defendant Horizon Carpentry based on their reckless disregard for safety on the job site.  That order is attached.

Plaintiff did not seek medical bills or wage loss as part of his damages in this case.

The $6.785M settlement was apportioned $4,642,500.00 on behalf of Horizon Carpentry and $2,142,500.00 on behalf of Kinzie Builders.

The plaintiff was represented by:

1. Christopher M. Norem
2. Dennis Lynch
3. Joseph D. Parente, all of The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, PC