Cassian & Carter LLC Cassian & Carter LLC 2026-06-03T21:11:07Z https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1204674/2021/05/cropped-3549718_Favicon-new-32x32.png On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[3 invisible injuries people may overlook after car crashes]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49680 2026-05-16T23:13:23Z 2026-05-16T23:13:23Z 1. Traumatic brain injuries The term “invisible injury” is often used specifically to describe a traumatic brain injury. Inflammation or bleeding inside the skull that puts pressure on the brain can cause permanent structural changes to the brain. Brain injury symptoms often take days or weeks to develop. Diagnostic delays can lead to a worse long-term prognosis and create complications when seeking compensation from the driver at fault for the crash.

2. Internal bleeding

Blunt-force trauma from contact with the steering column or internal injuries in the chest and abdomen from the safety restraints keeping someone in a vehicle can cause bleeding in the chest or abdomen. Internal bleeding can cause a variety of medical complications and can even endanger people's lives if left untreated for too long. People may go several days before they realize they need medical care if a car crash causes internal bleeding.

3. Stable traumatic injuries

People can injure their bodies seriously but still use the affected body parts. A simple fracture might leave the bone perfectly aligned, but intense exercise or mild secondary trauma could later push the bone out of alignment and worsen the injury days later. People can also sustain partial spinal cord injuries that pinch or incompletely tear the spinal cord. They may not recognize the seriousness of their condition because they can still use their lower extremities. They are at risk of the injury worsening and possibly causing permanent paralysis. The more serious the injuries sustained by other people and the worse the damage to the vehicle, the more likely people are to have sustained serious injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Seeing a doctor for immediate diagnosis after a motor vehicle collision can help people protect their health and their right to hold the driver at fault for a crash accountable for the financial consequences of their injuries.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[3 key steps to help prove that another driver caused a crash]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49679 2026-04-16T11:06:00Z 2026-04-16T11:06:00Z 1. Gather documentation immediately From taking pictures of the crash scene to collecting the names and contact information of witnesses, there are multiple steps people can take while waiting for police officers to arrive at the scene of a crash. Photos and videos can assist with a crash reconstruction if one is necessary. Witnesses can help corroborate any misconduct that may have occurred prior to the crash.

2. Express specific concerns to police officers

Reporting a car crash is typically mandatory if there is substantial property damage or injuries. While police officers do investigate on their own, they need information from each of the drivers involved. A driver who suspects that the person who rear-ended them was on their mobile phone may want to convey that to the officer investigating the wreck. Police departments can secure data usage information from cell phone companies and businesses operating different mobile apps. Police officers can also conduct chemical tests when there are concerns about intoxication or look for video footage from nearby cameras, including home and business security cameras, to validate what truly caused a collision.

3. Consult with a lawyer

When another driver refuses to admit fault, their misrepresentation of crash circumstances can complicate insurance claims and lawsuits. In the worst-case scenario, they might even make demands for compensation from the driver of the other vehicle. An attorney can help evaluate the crash report and explore options for compensation. They can also handle communications with the other driver and their insurance provider. Especially if the insurance company wants a recorded statement, legal representation is critical for those pursuing justice when there is a dispute about fault after a crash. Knowing how to handle the aftermath of a motor vehicle collision can help people avoid major losses and improve their chances of recovering the damages they’ve incurred.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[Seasonal shifts bring hidden slip and fall dangers]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49678 2026-03-23T15:11:46Z 2026-03-23T15:11:46Z Melting snow and ice create slippery surfaces Spring's fluctuating temperatures cause snow and ice to melt during the day, then refreeze at night. This creates:
  • Black ice on walkways and parking lots
  • Puddles that freeze over, creating hidden slippery patches
  • Water pooling at building entrances
You may step onto what looks like a safe surface, only to slip on invisible ice. Property owners should apply salt, sand surfaces and clear walkways regularly during these conditions.

Spring rain and wet conditions

April showers bring more than flowers: they create serious fall hazards. These hazards can include:
  • Slick tile or linoleum floors inside building entrances
  • Wet pavement without proper drainage
  • Muddy areas where grass hasn't fully grown in
Store owners and building managers should place warning signs and absorbent mats at entrances when rain is forecast. Without these precautions, you could slip the moment you walk through the door.

Potholes and ground damage

Winter weather damages parking lots, sidewalks and walkways. Spring can reveal:
  • Deep potholes filled with water
  • Cracked and uneven pavement
  • Broken concrete on walkways
These hazards are often hard to see, especially when covered by puddles or debris. One wrong step can lead to a twisted ankle, broken bone or worse.

Understanding liability for your injuries

Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions. When they fail to repair damage, clear hazards or warn visitors of dangers, they may be held liable for your injuries. These accidents happen quickly and without warning. And too often, injured parties feel embarrassed or blame themselves for slips, falls and trips, so they don't pursue the compensation they may deserve. However, property owners have a duty to take reasonable care to maintain safe premises. If they fail in their duty, they can be liable for any damages that result from their negligence. If you've been hurt in a slip-and-fall accident this spring, legal guidance can help you pursue the compensation for which you may be eligible.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[3 unsafe habits that increase the risk of a car crash]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49612 2025-06-19T00:42:01Z 2025-06-19T00:42:01Z identified an alarming uptick in unsafe driving habits in recent years. Drivers may want to evaluate their personal habits to see if they have developed any of these unsafe practices.

Speeding whenever possible

Speed limits exist not as a way for police departments to generate revenue by issuing tickets but instead to reduce the likelihood of preventable collisions. The speed limits imposed on different roads directly correlate to the risk of different types of crashes. Residential areas have low speed limits for the safety of pedestrians and any children living nearby. People who routinely exceed the speed limit put themselves at risk of not just a citation but also a preventable crash. The faster they travel, the worse the crashes they cause might be.

Choosing not to use turn signals

It takes a fraction of a second to activate a turn signal and appropriate distance before an intersection or prior to merging into another line of traffic on a multi-lane road. Unfortunately, many drivers choose not to signal consistently. They can then cause preventable collisions because others cannot predict what they intend to do in traffic. Consistently using turn signals, even when there is minimal traffic, can help people reduce their chances of causing preventable collisions.

Performing rolling stops

The need to come to a complete stop at every intersection and traffic light can frustrate some drivers. People often want to reach their destination as quickly as possible. Even stopping for a few seconds can seem inconvenient when drivers are in a rush. Particularly when they are in areas where they drive regularly and when traffic levels are low, motorists may not even think twice about rolling through an intersection or past a stop sign. Identifying these unsafe habits can help people limit their risk of causing preventable crashes. Those involved in motor vehicle collisions caused by others with unsafe habits they have the option of pursuing compensation. Filing insurance claims or taking legal action can help people address the aftermath of a preventable collision.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[If you made a mistake, can you still file a car accident lawsuit?]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49520 2025-04-11T20:21:49Z 2025-04-11T20:21:49Z In Illinois, the court assigns each party a percentage of fault Illinois follows a "comparative negligence" system, specifically known as "modified comparative negligence." This means that fault is allocated among all parties involved in an accident based on their respective contributions to the incident. The court assigns each party involved in the accident a percentage of fault. If the court determines that you were more than 50% at fault, you cannot get money from the other person. If you were less than 50 percent at fault, you can recover damages.

How can your actions impact the compensation you receive?

Your level of fault does not only determine whether you can receive compensation. Your fault could also reduce the amount that you receive. For example, if the court assigns you 10 percent of the fault, you can only receive 90 percent of the full value of your claim. If your full claim in this situation was worth $10,000, you would only receive $9,000 because of your fault.

How can you show how the other person’s actions led to an accident?

Because proving fault directly impacts the compensation you receive, it is essential to build a strong case. Gathering evidence like photos, witness statements and medical records can help you show what happened in the crash. It is also important to seek guidance from an experienced attorney in the aftermath of a crash. They can help you preserve this evidence and seek other evidence like surveillance video that you may not have access to. Your lawyer can also build a strong legal strategy and advocate for you in court.

Fault matters, but you can still fight for compensation

While making a mistake in a car accident can complicate your ability to recover compensation, it does not necessarily prevent you from receiving support through a lawsuit. By taking the right steps, you can fight for the compensation you deserve, even if you bear some responsibility for the accident.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[What are the most common types of car accidents in Illinois?]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49507 2025-02-11T16:49:08Z 2025-02-11T16:49:08Z Many factors beyond your control can lead to a crash In 2022, Illinois experienced nearly 300,000 vehicle crashes, with over 60,000 resulting in injuries and more than 1,000 leading to fatalities. These alarming numbers highlight the importance of being aware of the most common types of crashes, including:
  • Rear-end collisions
  • Head-on collisions
  • Side-impact or T-bone crashes
  • Multi-vehicle pileups
  • Single-vehicle accidents
  • Rollovers
  • Hit-and-run incidents
These types of crashes can happen to anyone, often without warning. It's crucial to recognize that while you can drive safely, other drivers’ actions are unpredictable.

Focus on what you can control

While you can't manage other drivers' behaviors, you can take steps to protect yourself and others on the road. Remember these defensive driving tips:
  • Stay focused: Avoid distractions like your phone or infotainment systems
  • Know your vehicle: Understand how your car handles in emergencies
  • Maintain control: Always drive with both hands on the wheel at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions
  • Be vigilant: Regularly check your mirrors and blind spots
  • Keep a safe distance: Leave at least three seconds of space between you and the car ahead
  • Adapt to conditions: Drive slower in poor weather or heavy traffic
  • Use technology: Employ advanced safety features like lane-keeping assist if available
Even with these precautions, accidents can still occur. Holding negligent drivers accountable is essential when their actions lead to crashes and injuries. A skilled car accident lawyer can provide valuable assistance if someone’s negligence injures you. Your attorney will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve by negotiating with insurance companies and taking other steps when necessary. This support can be invaluable in helping you recover and move forward after an accident.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[How common is ‘dangerous driving?’]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49497 2024-12-12T16:44:53Z 2024-12-12T16:44:17Z Here’s what the data reveals For the study, Pew researchers used 2022 U.S. highway fatality data. They focused on these four dangerous driving behaviors contributing to accidents:
  • Road rage: Incidents involving guns peaked in 2019, but fatalities and injuries from such incidents have increased since.
  • Drunk driving: Alcohol impairment accounted for about 31% of fatal crashes, with over 13,500 deaths in 2022.
  • Reckless driving: Hit-and-run incidents accounted for 14% of all crashes, and speeding was a factor in 27% of crash deaths.
  • Distracted driving: Distractions played a role in 11% of all crashes, with cellphone use implicated in a significant portion of these incidents.
Despite the evidence, only 49% of those involved in the survey said people drive more dangerously nowadays, and 9% said motorists drive more safely than in years past.

Steps to take after an accident

After a car crash, taking the proper steps can help you secure maximum compensation, especially those involving another driver's negligence:
  • Medical attention: Get checked out by a doctor, even if injuries seem minor.
  • Document everything: Take photos of all damages and injuries. Gather contact and insurance information from all parties involved.
  • Get a police report: This official document can be crucial in establishing fault and supporting your claim.
  • Be wary of insurance companies: Do not provide detailed statements to any insurers or agree to be recorded without consulting an attorney. Adjusters aim to minimize payouts.
  • Talk to a lawyer: An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, evaluate settlement offers and potentially secure higher compensation.
  • Hold negligent parties accountable: Pursuing punitive damages might be an option if the other driver’s behavior was particularly reckless.
By following these steps, you can better handle the aftermath of an accident and protect your rights to recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering and other related damages.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[What is the impact of distracted driving in Illinois?]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49454 2024-08-19T15:46:11Z 2024-08-19T15:42:48Z Sobering statistics for encountering distracted drivers The numbers paint a grim picture. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports distracted driving causes 8% of all fatal crashes. In 2022, distracted driving accidents resulted in 3,308 deaths and nearly 290,000 injuries across the country. Alarmingly, about one in five of those who died were not in vehicles—they were pedestrians, cyclists or otherwise outside a vehicle. These statistics highlight the widespread impact of distracted driving, affecting those behind the wheel and everyone else on or along the road. Distracted drivers create physical hazards that can lead to criminal and civil penalties for causing accidents, leading to devastating outcomes for themselves and others.

Three primary forms of distracted driving

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) categorizes distracted driving as such:
  • Visual distractions:
    • Taking your eyes off the road
    • Examples: Looking at your phone, turning to speak with a passenger
  • Manual distractions:
    • Taking your hands off the wheel
    • Examples: Eating, adjusting the radio, reaching for an item
  • Cognitive distractions:
    • Taking your mind off driving
    • Examples: Daydreaming, engaging in a heated conversation, being lost in thought
Each type poses a significant risk and can lead to accidents.

Prevention efforts seek to educate drivers and punish offenders

Efforts to combat distracted driving include both federal and state initiatives. Many states, including Illinois, have enacted laws to prevent distracted driving. These laws often ban texting while driving and limit cell phone use. High-visibility enforcement campaigns are also active, like NHTSA's "U Drive. U Text. U Pay." campaign, which aims to raise awareness and reduce cell phone use while driving. In Illinois, drivers can expect strict enforcement of these laws, with penalties designed to deter distracted driving. Education and awareness campaigns also play a key role in informing drivers about the dangers and encouraging safer driving habits.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[Surgical errors that may qualify as medical malpractice]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=49267 2023-11-09T09:51:51Z 2023-06-14T08:51:01Z Surgical errors at the wrong site Surgical procedures performed on the wrong body part fall under wrong-site surgery. Despite existing pre-operative checks and protocols to prevent this, such errors still happen, resulting in unnecessary harm and additional procedures.

Misidentification leading to operation on the wrong patient

An error in patient identification can result in performing a surgery intended for one individual on another. This error not only exposes an individual to unnecessary risks but also means the actual patient does not receive the required care.

Mistakenly leaving surgical instruments inside the patient

During the chaos and complexity of the surgery, medical staff might leave instruments inside a patient's body. This mistake can lead to serious complications, including infections, organ damage and the necessity of additional surgeries to remove the foreign object.

Errors with anesthesia

Errors can occur when administering anesthesia, ranging from giving too much or too little. These mistakes can result in potential harm from an overdose or the distress of a patient waking up during surgery, leading to severe consequences, including brain damage, heart problems and, in extreme cases, death.

Negligence in postoperative care

Negligence in post-operative care is necessary to ensure a patient's recovery. Failure to recognize or treat complications after surgery can lead to harm to the patient and may qualify as malpractice. Surgical errors can have severe effects on patients and may qualify as medical malpractice. Patients must stay vigilant and maintain communication with healthcare providers to minimize these risks and ensure they receive the highest standard of care.]]> On Behalf of Cassian & Carter LLC <![CDATA[Teen driver-involved crashes rise during 100 Deadliest Days]]> https://www.cassiancarterlaw.com/?p=48806 2023-05-24T21:11:19Z 2023-05-24T21:11:19Z car wrecks involving teenagers increase both statewide and nationally during the 100 Deadliest Days stretch.

Illinois 100 Deadliest Days crash statistics

In Illinois, 249 people died in incidents involving teenage drivers during the last 10 100 Deadliest Days spans. Throughout the year in Illinois, about 76 people die in crashes involving teenage drivers. An average of 19 of those deaths take place within the span of time between Memorial Day and Labor Day. While, often, the people dying in teen driver-involved crashes are traveling in cars not driven by the teenager, about 22 teen drivers die every year in wrecks that occurred within the 100 Deadliest Days.

National 100 Deadliest Days crash statistics

Nationally, 30% of all road deaths involving teenage drivers take place during summer’s 100 Deadliest Days. In a typical year, 2,081 teen drivers find themselves involved in fatal car wrecks, and 636 of them take place between Memorial Day and Labor Day. More than 7,038 people lost their lives in car crashes involving teenagers during the summertime between 2010 and 2019, with an average of seven people losing their lives each day during the 100 Deadliest Days stretch. Parents of new drivers may want to limit when, where and with whom their teenagers may drive until they gain more driving experience, particularly in the summertime.]]>