Answers To Commonly Asked Illinois Personal Injury Questions
If you or a loved one was harmed by a negligent party, you likely have questions about the Illinois personal injury process. We have compiled a list of several of the most frequently asked questions for you. Don’t see the question that’s on your mind? At Cassian & Carter LLC we offer a free consultation so that you can get answers. Call 815-714-7118 to speak with us today. We are happy to provide answers.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim in Illinois?
Two years. The clock starts ticking the day the injury occurred. If someone dies, the family has two years from the day of death to file a wrongful death claim.
Is there a limit to the amount of compensation I can recover in an Illinois personal injury claim?
No. There is currently no limit or “cap” on what you can recover in our state.
If my spouse died in an accident, should I file a wrongful death claim?
Every situation is different. However, if someone else was negligent and this caused the accident, then you may have a case. Negligent means that they did something to cause the accident or did not do something within their power to avoid the accident. Some medical malpractice and car accidents are valid causes for a wrongful death lawsuit if a loved one died.
Do most personal injury claims go to trial?
Not usually. Most of these cases, over 90%, are settled out of court. Only about 5% of all cases will go to trial.
How much is my personal injury claim worth?
This varies widely and depends in large part on the severity of your injury. Some cases are settled for a few thousand dollars, while others for tens of thousands. In rare cases, a personal injury case may settle for a million or more.
How much does it cost to hire an Illinois personal injury attorney?
It costs nothing. Why? Because these cases are taken on a contingency fee basis. This means that you pay nothing unless the attorney takes your case and attains a settlement or verdict for you. Then you pay a percentage of the compensation you receive for that representation.
What types of compensation can I secure with a personal injury settlement?
There are two types of compensation you can pursue: compensatory damages and punitive damages.
Compensatory damages are awarded to cover such things as medical bills, hospital bills, rehabilitation expenses, including drugs and equipment, and compensation for current and future lost earnings. They can also cover disfigurement, mental pain and anguish, loss of consortium, loss of opportunity and even the loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive damages are sought to “punish” or send a message to a person or company that such behavior will not be tolerated. It is typically pursued in cases where a person or business acted recklessly or with an evil motive.
Get In Touch For Clear Counsel And A Better Path Forward
We know you have questions about the process, timeline and what to expect. We are here to answer your questions and help you. You are not alone. We do understand how emotional this process is. When firm founder Bill Cassian was just 13, he lost his father to a heart attack that wasn’t treated. We offer extensive legal knowledge and experience with an uncommon degree of empathy. We will also hold the negligent parties responsible. Call 815-714-7118 or send an email to the firm about you and your injury.