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Personal injuries can be life-altering events, and when they occur, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. Unfortunately, many victims shy away from pursuing personal injury claims due to various myths and misconceptions about the process. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common myths about personal injury law in Illinois and shed light on the facts to help you make informed decisions in the event of an accident.

Myth #1: Minor Injuries are Not Worth a Personal Injury Claim

Fact: After an accident, even seemingly minor injuries may have hidden, long-term consequences. It’s essential to consult a medical professional to assess the extent of your injuries. Many injuries are not immediately apparent and may worsen over time. Pursuing compensation for your injuries is a responsible course of action to ensure you receive the necessary medical care and coverage for your losses.

Myth #2: People With Insurance Do Not Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Fact: Insurance companies often prioritize their profits over your well-being. They may offer settlements that are far less than what you deserve. A personal injury lawyer can protect your interests and work to secure fair compensation. The experienced Trial Team at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is dedicated to helping you obtain the compensation you need to move forward after an accident.

Myth #3: Personal Injury Cases Can Be Filed at Any Time

Fact: Illinois has a statute of limitations on personal injury cases. Filing sooner is advisable, as evidence and witness testimonies can weaken or disappear over time, making it more challenging to establish liability.

Myth #4: You Will Ruin Someone’s Life by Suing Them

Fact: Many personal injury cases involve individuals close to the victim. It’s essential to prioritize your own health and financial well-being. In most cases, the responsible party’s insurance covers the settlement, sparing them from personal financial burden.

Myth #5: People Who File Personal Claims Are Greedy

Fact: Filing a personal injury claim is not about greed but rather seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by someone else’s negligence. It is a legitimate way to recover from financial hardships resulting from an accident.

Myth 6: I’m pretty much guaranteed compensation to cover my losses.

Fact: While many personal injury cases result in settlements, compensation is not guaranteed, as each case is unique.

Myth 7: Holding out results in larger settlements.

Fact: Negotiating with a skilled personal injury attorney is often more effective than simply holding out for a larger settlement.

Myth 8: The courts are bogged down with personal injury cases.

Fact: Personal injury cases make up a relatively small portion of civil cases, and their numbers have even declined in recent years.

Debunking these common myths about personal injury law in Illinois reveals the truth: pursuing a personal injury claim is a responsible step when you’ve suffered injuries due to someone else’s negligence. Seeking the help of an experienced personal injury attorney can protect your rights, ensure fair compensation, and provide you with the support you need to recover from your accident-related hardships. Don’t let misconceptions deter you from seeking justice and the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one have been injured due to another’s negligence, call The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 for a free case evaluation. We Win Big Cases! 

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was proud to support IBEW Local 15 Charity Golf Outing! This outing was held on October 1st at Ruffled Feathers Golf Club in Lemont, Illinois.

This outing benefits Cal’s Angels, which is a pediatric cancer foundation with a mission of granting wishes, raising awareness, and funding research to help kids fighting cancer. This organization has pled over 1.2 million dollars to Chicagoland hospitals.

This was the first annual outing held by this local, and we are so grateful to be able to sponsor this event. Their membership spans across the entire northern half of Illinois and we had a great opportunity to meet many members, as well as support their great cause.

For more information on The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. or speak to an attorney, call/text us at 312.641.5926 or visit us at pninjurylaw.com

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was proud to support the Chicago & Cook County Building Trades Golf Outing. This outing was held on September 28 at Silver Lakes Country Club in Orland Park, Illinois.

The Chicago & Cook County Building Trades represents over 100,000 working men and women from over 24 affiliated organizations in the union construction trades. They work to promote harmony and good will among the affiliated trades and organizations, and to promote unionization to the unorganized sector.

This annual outing brings together a massive amount of local businesses, politicians, and union trades from the Chicagoland and Cook County area. We had the opportunity to meet so many new faces that are grateful for the opportunity to sponsor this event!

For more information on The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. or speak to an attorney, call/text us at 312.641.5926 or visit us at pninjurylaw.com

Personal injury law is a complex and nuanced field that deals with injuries resulting from negligence, including accidents like car crashes, slip and falls, and other personal injuries. When you find yourself in such a situation, it’s crucial to have the right personal injury attorney by your side. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your case? This blog post will give you the information you need to help you avoid common mistakes and make an informed decision when selecting a personal injury lawyer.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Personal Injury Lawyer

Not Hiring a Lawyer at All

One of the most significant mistakes you can make is assuming you don’t need a lawyer, especially if your injuries seem minor. Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to costly mistakes regarding medical bills and other expenses. If your injuries are severe or have caused a loss of income, consulting a lawyer is the wise choice.

Not Doing Your Homework First

Choosing a personal injury attorney without proper research is a grave error. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, colleagues, and check online reviews. Additionally, investigate their background thoroughly, including any criminal convictions and disciplinary records. Ensure you choose a reputable lawyer with a proven track record in personal injury cases.

Hiring the First Person Who Offers You Money

Never select an attorney solely based on monetary incentives, especially when they are just promises. To avoid this mistake, seek a reputable personal injury lawyer with references from previous clients, and ensure they specialize in personal injury law.

Focusing on the Wrong Things

When searching for a personal injury lawyer, focus on finding someone experienced and qualified to handle your case. Look for a lawyer who has handled similar cases in the past, as their expertise will be valuable in understanding your situation and advising you accordingly.

Not Knowing What to Expect

Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, research various aspects such as their fee structure, their specialization, and the types of cases they handle. Being informed will prevent any surprises and ensure you make the right choice for your needs.

How to Find a Good Personal Injury Lawyer

Now that you know the mistakes to avoid, here are some steps to help you find the right personal injury lawyer for your case:

Evaluate Their Experience

Look for an attorney with extensive experience in personal injury law. Check if they specialize in this field and if they have handled cases similar to yours. Research their track record and whether they have received recognition or awards for their work.

Assess Their Track Record

Examine their past case results and determine if they have consistently secured significant settlements or verdicts for their clients, especially in cases involving catastrophic injuries.

Pay Attention to Communication

Ensure that the attorney communicates effectively and is willing to answer your questions promptly. A good attorney should be friendly, professional, and genuinely concerned about your well-being.

Understand Their Payment Model

Clarify their payment structure, including whether they offer a free initial consultation and if they work on a contingency-fee basis. Make sure you fully understand the financial aspects of your agreement.

Consider Additional Resources

Ask if the attorney can provide additional resources, such as access to medical professionals, assistance in finding doctors who work on a lien basis, and support with property damage valuation and negotiations.

Why Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

You may wonder why you should hire a personal injury lawyer in the first place. The simple answer is that they protect your rights and maximize your compensation. Insurance companies often use manipulative tactics to minimize payouts, so having an experienced attorney on your side is essential. A skilled lawyer will investigate your case, prove liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Choosing the right personal injury lawyer is crucial for the success of your case. Avoid common mistakes, conduct thorough research, and follow the steps outlined here to make an informed decision. With the right attorney by your side, you can navigate the complexities of personal injury law and secure the compensation you deserve. For a free case evaluation, 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. Your path to justice begins with us! 

Filing a personal injury lawsuit can be an incredibly stressful process. You’re dealing with physical discomfort, mounting medical costs, and the potential for decreased income if you can’t work. On top of all that, you have to worry about taking on a large corporation or insurance company. In Illinois, like many other states, the factors that determine the value of your personal injury claim are complex and multifaceted. In this blog post, we’ll explain the key elements that shape your personal injury claim’s worth, providing you with a clearer understanding of what to expect during the legal process.

National Personal Injury Statistics

Before we get into the factors that impact the value of a personal injury claim in Illinois, let’s take a moment to understand the scale of personal injuries, particularly in the context of car accidents.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 2.3 million people were injured in car accidents in 2018. That’s approximately 6,700 people injured every day. 

In Illinois, more than 130,000 people were injured in car accidents in 2018, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. And those are just the accidents that were reported. The actual number of injuries is likely much higher.

In 2019, there were about 21,667 car accidents in Chicago, according to the Chicago Police Department. About 9,935 resulted in injuries, and 787 resulted in fatalities. That means that nearly 46 percent of all the car accidents in Chicago resulted in someone being injured or killed.

These numbers are staggering, but they’re also a reminder of how important it is to drive safely and always be on the lookout for other drivers who may not be doing the same. If you or someone you love has been injured in an auto accident, contact one of our experienced personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today to discuss your legal options.

Factors That Impact the Value of a Personal Injury Claim

Now, let’s dive into the factors that play a crucial role in determining the value of your personal injury claim in Illinois.

Liability in Your Illinois Injury Claim:

   – The insurance company looks at the details of your accident and determines which party was liable for your injuries.

   – The degree of “comparative negligence” is examined, where the insurance company determines a percentage of fault for each party.

   – If your percentage of fault is more than 51%, the claim is usually dismissed, as you were more at fault for your injury than the other party.

The Nature of Your Injury Claim:

   – The type of injury and the related impact it has on your life are of concern when determining your injury settlement.

   – The more severe an injury is, the higher your injury settlement is likely to be.

   – The insurance companies will try to obtain past medical records to ensure that the injury was new and not the result of a pre-existing condition or previous injuries.

Damages You Claim Impact Your Injury Settlement:

   – Economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, are a significant factor in determining the value of a claim.

   – Non-economic damages, including pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, and emotional distress, also play a vital role.

   – Punitive damages, designed to punish wrongdoers, are not common in personal injury cases but can be available in some cases.

Calculating Pain and Suffering Damages Is an Inexact Science:

   – Pain and suffering damages are non-economic and not easily quantified.

There Are No Limitations on Pain and Suffering Damages in Illinois:

   – Unlike some states, Illinois does not impose a cap on pain and suffering compensation.

   – The jury has the final say in determining the compensation you are entitled to recover, considering all relevant factors.

Understanding the factors that determine the value of your personal injury claim in Illinois is essential for a successful outcome. No two cases are alike, and each case’s worth depends on the specific circumstances and the extent of your injuries. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, seeking the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we are dedicated to advocating for your rights and helping you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims in Illinois. For a free case evaluation call/text us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our site. 

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was proud to support the Elevators Local 2 Golf Outing! This outing was held on Saturday, September 16 at the White Pines Golf Club in Bensenville, Illinois.

This annual outing benefits Elevator Constructors Against Diabetes. This charity’s mission is to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by the disease.

Parente & Norem was represented by our Public Relations team, as well as our attorney Cole Munvez. This outing had participation from over 400 golfers, the majority of them being Local 2 members. There were also other trades, politicians, and local businesses there to supported this great cause. We met so many new faces and are thankful for the opportunity to be a Gold Sponsor!

For more information on The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. or speak to an attorney, call/text us at 312.641.5926 or visit us at pninjurylaw.com.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was proud to support the Fox Valley Building Trades Golf Outing! This outing was held on Wednesday, September 13, at the beautiful Bliss Creek Golf Course in Sugar Grove, Illinois.

This annual outing benefits Fox Valley United Way. Fox Valley United Way strives to ensure that all families in their communities have equitable access to opportunities and resources by investing in positive health, education, and financial outcomes.

This outing brought together a large number of union tradesman, politicians, and local businesses to support their cause. We were so grateful to have the opportunity to participate and support organized labor!

For more information on The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. or speak to an attorney, call/text us at 312.641.5926 or visit us at pninjurylaw.com

Personal injuries can be life-altering events, and when they occur due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, it’s important to understand your rights and options under personal injury law. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fundamentals of personal injury claims, the types of cases that fall under this category, who you can sue, what you need to prove, and the compensation you may be entitled to. Whether you’re facing the aftermath of a car accident, medical malpractice, or another personal injury situation in Illinois, this information can be invaluable in helping you navigate the legal process.

What Is Personal Injury Law?
Personal injury law is a branch of the legal system that defines your rights when you suffer harm due to the actions or negligence of another party. Whether you file your claim in state or federal court, you are the plaintiff, and the individuals, companies, or entities you are taking legal action against become the defendants. Personal injury laws outline the situations that can be grounds for a claim, the parties you can sue, the evidence required to win your case, and the damages you may receive if your claim is successful.

Types of Legal Claims Under Personal Injury Law
Personal injury law encompasses a wide range of situations, including:

Accidental Injuries: These occur when someone’s mistake, negligence, or failure to meet professional standards leads to your harm. Examples include medical malpractice, slip and fall accidents, car accidents, and more.

Strict Liability Claims: In some cases, you can make a personal injury claim even without proving negligence or wrongdoing. For instance, if a defective product causes harm, the manufacturer can be held strictly liable.

Intentional Torts: Personal injury laws also allow you to pursue a claim if someone harms you intentionally, such as in cases of assault and battery.

It’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand how these laws apply to your specific situation. Our attorneys here at the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. are available to discuss your case and its specifics.

Who Can You Sue Under Personal Injury Law?
In most cases, you can sue the individual, company, or entity directly responsible for your injuries. However, there are situations where multiple parties may be liable. For example, in medical malpractice claims, you may sue both the negligent doctor and the clinic that employed them due to a legal doctrine called vicarious liability. This doctrine holds employers responsible for their employees’ actions during job duties.

Regardless of the defendants you choose, you will likely deal with insurance companies during your personal injury claim. Insurers providing various coverage types, such as homeowners, auto, business, or malpractice insurance, may offer settlements to compensate you for your losses.

What Must You Prove to Win a Personal Injury Case?
To prevail in a personal injury case, you, as the plaintiff, must prove the defendant’s liability. The specifics of your claim depend on whether it involves intentional torts, negligence, or strict liability. In general, you need to demonstrate:

1. The defendant had a duty or obligation, such as driving safely or producing safe products.
2. The defendant failed to meet this obligation, either intentionally or negligently.
3. The defendant’s actions or inactions directly caused your harm.
4. You suffered losses that are compensable under the law.

Typically, you must prove your claim by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is more likely than not that the evidence you present is accurate and justifies holding the defendant liable.

What Damages Can You Receive in a Personal Injury Claim?
If you successfully pursue a personal injury claim, you are entitled to be “made whole,” which means returning you to the state you were in before the injury occurred. Compensation may include:

Medical Bills: Coverage for medical expenses related to your injury.
Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Power: Compensation for income you lost due to the injury.
Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress resulting from the injury.
Emotional Distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of the injury.
Punitive Damages: In rare cases, punitive damages are awarded to punish the defendant.

Keep in mind that some states impose limits on punitive and non-economic damages for specific types of cases. Consulting Parente & Norem’s experienced attorneys is crucial to understanding these limitations and maximizing your compensation.

Filing a Lawsuit
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to another party’s fault, taking immediate steps can significantly impact your case. Seek medical attention, gather relevant medical records and evidence, and consult an attorney. To initiate a personal injury claim in Illinois, you typically begin by filing a “complaint” with the court, detailing the parties involved, the harmful act, the damages, and the compensation sought. Most personal injury cases are settled before trial, but for those that proceed to trial, legal representation is essential.

Additionally, personal injury claims are subject to a statute of limitations, which restricts the time frame for filing a claim after the incident. Seeking legal counsel promptly can prevent your case from being dismissed on the grounds of exceeding this time limit.

The Cost of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they are paid a percentage of the compensation only if they win your case. If the case is lost, you typically do not owe the attorney fees. This arrangement can provide access to legal representation without upfront costs.

Personal injuries can happen unexpectedly, but understanding your rights and the basics of personal injury claims in Illinois can help alleviate additional stress during this challenging time. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of an accident, medical malpractice, or intentional harm, consulting an experienced personal injury attorney is crucial to protect your interests and seek the compensation you deserve. Call or text us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. was proud to support the Eastern Illinois Building Trades Golf Outing! This outing was held at the University of Illinois Golf Course in Savoy, Illinois on Friday, September 8, 2023. 

This annual event benefits United Way of Champaign County. This charity brings resources together to support the local community, with an emphasis on education, health, and financial stability. Their fundraising supports 41 local programs and 31 local nonprofits. 

This event brought together many union representatives, politicians, and professionals of the Champaign area, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to support their cause. 

For more information on The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. or speak to an attorney, call/text us at 312.641.5926 or visit us at pninjurylaw.com

When you’ve been involved in a motor vehicle accident, you may already be grappling with physical injuries, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills. It’s a challenging time, and you may be considering pursuing a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages. However, it’s crucial to understand that your driving record can play a significant role in the outcome of your personal injury claim.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the ways in which traffic tickets can affect the compensation you could receive in your personal injury case. Whether you’re the injured party or the one accused of a traffic violation, knowing the impact of your driving record is vital for navigating the complex legal landscape.

The Role of Your Driving Record

Your driving record is not only a reflection of your history on the road but also a potential factor that insurance companies and courts consider when determining the outcome of your personal injury claim. Here’s how it can affect your case:

Pre-Existing Conditions and Injuries

If you have a history of accidents or traffic violations, the at-fault party’s insurance company may argue that you are more likely to have pre-existing conditions or injuries that were exacerbated by the accident. This argument can lead to a reduction in the compensation you receive. The challenge often lies in distinguishing between injuries caused by the accident and those stemming from pre-existing conditions.

Credibility and Sympathy

On the flip side, having a clean driving record can strengthen your personal injury case. Insurance companies and courts are more likely to view you as a reliable witness and may be more sympathetic to your situation. This can potentially result in a more favorable outcome for your claim.

Common Traffic Violations Leading to Accidents

It’s important to recognize that a significant number of accidents are caused by driver error and negligent driving. These commonly involve traffic violations that lead to collisions. Some of the most frequent traffic violations that increase the risk of accidents include:

– Speeding

– Running a red light

– Running a stop sign

– Failure to yield

– Failure to stop

– Failure to use turn signals

– Disobeying road signs

– Improper U-turn

– Improper lane change

– Improper passing

– Driving off the road

Traffic Tickets and Their Impact

Now, let’s look deeper into how traffic tickets can directly affect the outcome of your injury claim.

Police Officers’ Role

Police officers at the scene of a car accident often issue traffic tickets when they observe evidence of a traffic violation, such as running a red light or speeding. These tickets serve as the foundation for a criminal case against the offending driver.

Importantly, police officers are aware that the police report and any traffic tickets issued can significantly impact the outcome of a car accident claim. This is because insurance companies request these reports to find evidence either in favor of their client or to demonstrate the fault of the other driver. However, it’s crucial to note that winning a traffic ticket case does not determine fault in an accident; fault is separately determined in a civil lawsuit or dispute over damages.

Traffic Tickets and Liability

Traffic tickets, on their own, represent an allegation that a person violated a traffic law or failed to adhere to the rules of the road. If the recipient of the ticket pleads guilty or pays the fine without contesting the citation, it serves as proof of a violation. When the traffic violation is established as the cause of a car accident, the traffic ticket and guilty plea can be essential pieces of evidence in proving liability and collecting damages from the driver who received the ticket.

Negotiating Process

During the negotiation process for your personal injury claim, traffic tickets can be highly relevant. If one driver involved in the accident receives a traffic ticket while the other does not, it may become easier to determine fault, with the driver who received the ticket likely bearing more responsibility for the accident.

Sharing Fault

In cases where both drivers receive traffic tickets, it may be determined that fault is shared in the accident. Illinois operates under comparative fault rules, meaning that fault can be divided between parties in a personal injury case. Damages are awarded based on contributory fault law, which stipulates that your compensation may be reduced in proportion to the percentage of fault attributed to you. For example, if you were found responsible for 20% of the accident, your settlement or award would be reduced by 20%.

Seek Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a collision due to another driver’s negligence, it’s imperative to contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights. An experienced car accident attorney can fight for the full compensation you deserve. In many cases, having legal representation can lead to a settlement from the insurance company that is significantly larger, often five to ten times more, than what you might obtain without legal help.

In Illinois, your driving record can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury claim following a motor vehicle accident. Whether you have a clean record or have received traffic tickets, understanding how this aspect can affect your case is essential. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s wise to consult with a qualified personal injury lawyer who can navigate the complexities of the legal system on your behalf and work towards securing the compensation you need to recover from your injuries and move forward with your life. Remember, your rights and your future well-being are worth fighting for, and a skilled attorney can be your strongest advocate in seeking justice. For more information or a free case evaluation 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.