Posted on

How A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Get You More Money

personal injury

Personal injury law in Illinois were created to provide relief to individuals who have been harmed due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. This area of law encompasses a wide array of incidents, each with its unique complexities and legal nuances. Personal injury claims can arise from various scenarios, ranging from automobile accidents to workplace injuries, each governed by specific statutes and common law principles.

For instance, car accidents, one of the most common sources of personal injury claims, often involve intricate issues related to negligence, insurance coverage, and liability determination. Similarly, medical malpractice cases require an understanding of both legal and medical standards, while workplace injuries might intersect with workers’ compensation laws.

The nature of personal injury law in Illinois underscores the importance of seeking competent legal representation. Each case presents its distinct set of facts and legal challenges, demanding an in-depth understanding of both the law and the practical aspects of handling a claim.

Personal injury lawyers are not just legal representatives; they are advocates who provide strategic guidance through the complex maze of litigation, negotiations, and potential settlements. Their role becomes crucial in ensuring that the victim’s rights are protected and that they receive fair compensation for their losses and suffering. Furthermore, legal representation can be a decisive factor in leveling the playing field, especially when dealing with well-resourced insurance companies and defendants.

A 1999 study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC) revealed that clients with attorney representation typically receive insurance payouts that are 3.5 times greater than those who don’t have an attorney. The study also found that “settlements are 40% higher when you hire an attorney” and “insurance company payouts are, on average, 3.5 times higher for clients who have hired an attorney.”

Furthermore, a study by a reputable online legal resource discovered that personal injury victims employing a lawyer averaged $77,600 in compensation, in stark contrast to the $17,600 average compensation for those who managed their claims independently.

This information clearly indicates that securing a lawyer leads to significantly higher financial recoveries in personal injury cases.

The Experience of Illinois Personal Injury Lawyers

The experience of Illinois personal injury lawyers is a critical component in the pursuit of a successful damages claim. These professionals come equipped with a robust understanding of state-specific laws and regulations, which is vital given the variations in personal injury law across different jurisdictions.

Illinois, for instance, has unique statutes regarding negligence, liability, and compensation, which can significantly influence the outcome of a claim. Personal injury lawyers in Illinois are not only well-versed in these legal intricacies but also stay abreast of any changes or updates in the legal landscape, ensuring that their clients receive the most current and effective legal advice.

Qualifications and experience play a pivotal role in the capabilities of these attorneys. Most personal injury lawyers in Illinois have spent years honing their skills in negotiation, litigation, and claim evaluation. This experience is invaluable in accurately assessing the merits of a case, estimating the potential compensation, and devising effective legal strategies. Their familiarity with the workings of the Illinois judicial system, including jury tendencies and judge preferences, can be leveraged to the client’s advantage.

The true measure of a lawyer’s expertise, however, lies in how they apply their knowledge and experience to the specific nuances of each case. This involves a detailed evaluation of the claim, considering factors such as the extent of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life, and the circumstances leading to the incident. By doing so, Illinois personal injury lawyers can craft a compelling argument for higher compensation, addressing both tangible and intangible damages.

Their strategic approach will often include:

  • Gathering and presenting evidence in a manner that maximizes the claim’s value.
  • Negotiating assertively with insurance companies and, when necessary.
  • Presenting a strong case in court.

This specialized expertise is a key factor in why victims with legal representation often secure more substantial compensation compared to those who navigate the process alone.

Navigating the Car Accident Claims Process

Navigating the legal process of a personal injury claim in Illinois can be a daunting task for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of the law. The process typically begins with the crucial step of filing a claim, which involves more than just submitting paperwork. It requires a thorough understanding of the statute of limitations in Illinois, which dictates the timeframe within which a lawsuit must be filed. Failure to adhere to these time constraints can result in the forfeiture of the right to seek compensation.

Once the claim is initiated, Illinois personal injury lawyers deploy a range of legal strategies to strengthen the case. Key among these is the meticulous gathering of evidence, which may include accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and photographic or video evidence. This evidence forms the backbone of the claim, providing concrete proof of negligence and the extent of injuries sustained.

Additionally, attorneys often turn to expert testimonies – from medical professionals to accident reconstruction specialists – to provide an authoritative perspective on the case. These experts can offer invaluable insights into the nature of the injuries, the probable cause of the incident, and the long-term impacts on the victim’s life.

Representation in court and negotiations with insurance companies are other critical aspects where attorneys play a vital role. Skilled personal injury lawyers are adept at navigating the court system and advocating effectively for their clients’ rights and interests. In many cases, however, settlements are reached outside the courtroom. Here, attorneys’ negotiation skills come to the fore, often resulting in more favorable outcomes for their clients. These negotiations require a delicate balance of aggressive advocacy and strategic compromise, ensuring that the victim’s best interests are always the priority.

Maximizing Compensation

Maximizing compensation in a personal injury claim is a nuanced process that extends beyond just tabulating medical bills. Illinois personal injury lawyers are proficient in assessing and quantifying both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include tangible losses such as medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, are more subjective and encompass pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Lawyers employ various techniques to negotiate higher settlements. They prepare a detailed quantification of all damages, often employing financial experts to project future costs and the long-term financial impact of the injury. Moreover, by constructing a compelling narrative around the victim’s suffering and the impact on their daily life, lawyers can advocate for higher compensation for non-economic damages.

There are numerous examples where the involvement of a lawyer has significantly increased compensation amounts. In cases involving severe or long-term disabilities, for instance, attorneys have successfully argued for settlements that cover not just immediate medical expenses but also ongoing care, alterations to living spaces, and loss of future earning capacity. Such outcomes are a testament to the value added by experienced legal representation in personal injury cases.

The Value of Professional Legal Assistance

The benefits of hiring a personal injury lawyer in Illinois are manifold and significant. These professionals bring a depth of knowledge and experience that is critical in navigating the complex landscape of personal injury law. Their expertise in legal procedure, evidence gathering, and negotiations is invaluable in effectively representing a client’s interests. Moreover, their ability to assess and argue for maximum compensation can make a substantial difference in the outcome of a claim.

Victims of personal injury in Illinois are strongly encouraged to seek legal counsel. Doing so not only increases the likelihood of receiving fair and adequate compensation but also provides the support and guidance necessary during what can be a challenging and stressful time. The impact of professional legal representation on the outcome of a damages claim cannot be overstated. In the hands of a skilled personal injury lawyer, a claim is not just a legal process but a pathway to justice and financial stability for the victim and their family.

Speak With Our Cook County Personal Injury Lawyers Today

If you or someone you love has been injured due to someone else fault, Bob and his staff can help you win your case and ensure that you get the most money that the law allows. If insurance adjusters are telling you they won’t pay because you weren’t injured or because you were at fault then you should call Bob today to set up a FREE honest opinion of the value of your case.

Contact our Cook County personal injury lawyers today at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens for your free case evaluation. Call (847) 395-2200.

Posted on

How Personal Injury Awards In Illinois Are Decided

Personal InjuryAs a personal injury victim, you are entitled to an amount from the negligent party based on the extent of the damages you suffered. By “damages”, we mean measurable harm that you sustained because of a personal injury. These can vary from one case to another. An experienced Antioch personal injury lawyer can analyze the harm you suffered and calculate appropriate damages.

Common Personal Injury Damages You Can Claim 

Some of the common personal injury awards you can claim as per the extent and type of your injuries include the following:

Economic Damages 

As is apparent from the name, economic damages refer to financial losses you may suffer because of your injuries. Besides your medical bills, this includes wage loss as you find yourself unable to fulfill most, or all of your work duties post-accident. It can also include expenses that cover rehab and loss of earning capacity as you are forced to take on a less-taxing job if your disabilities are permanent. 

How it is calculated 

An Antioch personal injury lawyer can quickly and easily calculate economic rewards for personal injury settlements. They need to add up all of the financial losses you are going through. So, for example, if you have a $30,000 medical bill, spent $10,000 in rehab, and suffered income loss amounting to $10,000, the damages will total $50,000. 

Non-Economic Damages 

Non-economic damages refer to the harm you may undergo because of the accident. These are not quantifiable. Besides pain and suffering, this can also include emotional (depression, anxiety, and PTSD) and physical pain (headaches, nerve pain). 

How it is calculated 

Determining non-economic damages is not as straightforward as economic damages since they aren’t tangible. Placing a price on someone’s pain and suffering is a monumental task. In this case, a jury will decide how much it is worth, but they are given few guidelines to do so. Both parties usually recommend an amount, but the jury does not have to pick one side. An Antioch personal injury lawyer will consult with you before putting an amount forth. 

Punitive Damages 

Punitive damages are not meant to compensate victims but to punish the defendant for highly egregious behavior. The funds from these damages are usually paid to the state, not the victim. 

How it is calculated 

There is no cap as to the number of punitive damages that can be demanded in Illinois. They are eligible for any situation where a defendant exhibits intentional or extremely negligent actions that harmed the plaintiff. Calculating it falls to the court. 

Contact The Law Offices Of Robert T. Edens, P.C. For The Compensation You Deserve 

If you have been injured because of someone’s negligence, you deserve to get maximum compensation. In this case, an experienced Antioch personal injury lawyer from The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. can prove invaluable. We have more than two decades of experience protecting the rights of accident victims such as you and we ensure you get the compensation you deserve. The longer you wait, the more complex your case can get. Get in touch with us for a consultation today!

Posted on

How Severe Must Back Injuries Be For Personal Injury Compensation?

Back InjuriesIrrespective of their severity, back injuries can be quite painful and can last for months, if not years. These can occur in almost any work environment. The symptoms can range from mild to chronic pain that can make your job extremely difficult, if not impossible. This includes negligent parties who were at fault for your injury. So your back injury doesn’t have to be serious to be eligible for a personal injury claim.

If you are denied compensation from your employer, an Antioch spinal cord lawyer can ensure you can recover damages.

Types of Back Injuries You Can Claim As Personal Injuries

Some of the common types of back injuries that you can file a claim for include the following:

Back Injuries Resulting From Twisting, Lowering, and Lifting

Lifting and lowering heavy objects can strain your back. With time, the sprain can turn into a serious injury. If you do this regularly and feel a sharp pain in your back every time you twist, you should get yourself checked out.

Back Injuries from Prolonged Standing or Sitting

If you type for hours every day or have a job where you stand for the whole day, your back is suffering. If you wear a heavy tool belt all day, you can injure your back seriously unless your employer is proactive enough to prevent it. Since your work can result in injuries, your boss is responsible for your safety.

Spinal Fractures from Falls or Accidents

Spinal fractures and injuries are common on construction sites that do not take safety seriously. These injuries can prove life-threatening or can lead to permanent paralysis.

Herniated disc

The jelly-like fluid between the discs of our spinal cord prevents them from rubbing against one another. With time and repetitive work (such as typing for hours), the fluid can escape its confines because of a rupture. The result is severe back pain which can prevent you from working and maintaining the quality of life you are used to.

Anterior Cord Syndrome

ACS is a serious spinal cord injury that can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis. The condition compromises the sensory pathways that connect the spinal cord to your body. Besides mobility loss, you can also experience other complicated symptoms.

A Chicago spinal cord lawyer will tell you that you need to prove that your back injury is work-related to be eligible for compensation. If it occurred because of something you were doing for your employer, you should not pay out of pocket for your medical bills. Whether the injury occurred on the worksite or off, you are eligible if it occurred because of work.

Contact Our Personal Injury Attorneys for a Legal Consultation

If you or someone you know got injured on the job and are suffering and paying their medical bills because their employer refused to, contact our Antioch personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens today. We understand how debilitating these injuries can be and help you get the compensation you deserve. Don’t suffer just because your claim was denied. Take action now and get in touch with us for a free consultation on legal options.

Posted on

How Do Illinois Dog Bite Laws Affect Compensation in My Personal Injury Case?

dog biteIllinois is a strict liability state which means dog bite laws in Illinois protect victims of attacks. It means that if your dog bites someone, you will be held liable for the injuries they sustain. As per the Illinois Animal Control Act, it is the dog owner’s responsibility to ensure their pet is secured in their property at all times. Plus, they also have to make sure their dog is leashed during walks.

Types of Damages You Can Get For Dog Bites in Illinois

Like most personal injury cases, dog bite laws are valued as per economic and non-economic damages such as the following:

Medical Bills

You can be compensated for all of the medical bills you had to pay the hospital that treated your wounds that resulted from the attack. This includes ER treatment and future medical aid such as reconstructive surgery (to fix your scarred body or face) or an injury that requires physical therapy. Since the dog owner was not able to keep their pet from attacking you, they have to pay all of those expenses.

Financial loss

If the dog attack resulted in injuries that made you bedridden or prevented you from doing your job, your dog bite lawyer in Lake County could also make a wage loss claim as part of your lawsuit against the owner. In this case, they can say that the injuries you sustained because of the dog owner’s negligence prevent you from making a living, so you should be compensated for it.

Pain and suffering

As per Illinois law, you can also receive compensation for the pain and suffering you went through because of the dog attack. This includes past, present, and future pain and suffering. The good news is that the court usually rejects caps on this type of compensation, so you can get almost all of the compensation you need to avoid financial ruin. An experienced dog bite lawyer in Lake County can ensure you get the maximum amount.

Disfigurement

Most dog attacks result in deep and permanent scarring that can take a toll on the victim’s physical and mental health. Puncture wounds and nerve damage can take months to heal and thousands of dollars to treat surgically. Even reconstructive surgery may not be enough to reverse all of the damage. However, ensuring you get compensated from the guilty parties can go a long way in helping you heal financially and emotionally.

Contact Robert Edens for a Consultation Today

A dog attack can lead to lifelong disfigurement and PTSD. If you are uncertain about dog bite laws in Illinois, get in touch with Robert Edens today. He will meet with you and go over all of the facts surrounding your case in detail. With two decades of experience representing victims like you, he will ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve.

The consultation is completely free of cost, so you have nothing to lose. You will not be forced to sign anything you are uncomfortable with or asked to pay till you get a fair settlement.

Posted on

Accidents That May Require a Personal Injury Attorney in Waukegan

It happens to the best of us. If you have suffered severe injuries because of an accident that could have been avoided, the negligent party should compensate you. If they or their insurance company deny your claim, do not hesitate to hire a personal injury attorney in Waukegan to claim damages.

Unsure whether your accident merits a claim? Here are some of the types of accidents that may require a personal injury attorney in Illinois:

Car Accidents

As one of Illinois’ most common types of accidents, car crashes are often caused by drunk, sleepy, speeding, or unruly drivers. If you sustain a car accident injury, you can file a personal injury claim to get financial compensation for your losses. This includes serious medical bills, lost wages, and even physical and emotional distress.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles can go from 0 to 100 mph in the blink of an eye. Plus, most motorists fail to see motorcyclists before it is too late due to their compact size. A motorcycle accident usually results in debilitating injuries that can prevent victims from living a normal life. Anything from road rash to broken bones to paralysis can reduce their quality of life.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice can take on several devastating forms. It can include birth injuries caused by an inexperienced doctor, surgical injuries caused by a slip of a surgeon’s hand, and even a fatal disease missed during diagnosis. When a doctor or a medical professional fails in their duties and, as a result, hurts their patients, he/she can be held liable via a personal injury lawsuit.

Slip and Fall Accidents

Don’t underestimate slip and fall accidents. These are some of the most common types of personal injury claims made in Illinois. Here is how the law works: if you slip, fall, and injure yourself on another individual’s property, the latter can be held liable for damages you sustain.

As per Illinois Premise Liability Act, property owners owe a duty of care for guests and even people passing through their property. They have to place warning signs on hazardous areas and/or fix them before they cause an accident.

Statute of Limitations on Personal Injury Cases

Whether you are injured in a slip and fall accident, because of medical malpractice, in a car/motorcycle accident, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. If you miss this deadline, you may have to forfeit your claim and thus, give up the compensation you deserve.

However, if you wish to file a personal injury claim against a government entity, you only have one year to file your claim. Time is of the essence. Get in touch with an experienced and skilled personal injury attorney in Waukegan, such as Robert Edens, at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens for a consultation today.

Personal Injury Attorney

With over two decades of experience protecting the rights of personal injury victims in Illinois, Robert can ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Claims adjusters are NOT your friends. Before they swoop in and try to make you say or do things that can limit the settlement you may receive, contact his office in Waukegan.

Posted on

How To Avoid Common Work-Related Injuries

workers compensation lawyer in AntiochWorkplace accidents are all too common and can cause major issues, especially for employees. Injured team members can spend months recuperating and lose out on precious job opportunities. While workplace compensation can help them during this difficult time, employers can do their part by reducing common work-related injuries using the tips mentioned below:

1. Ensure Workspaces Are Clean

A tidy workplace is an injury-free workplace. A cluttered and unclean area is prone to dangerous hazards. Loose wires can make people trip, stacked boxes can fall on unsuspecting individuals and faulty wiring can lead to a fire that can spread fast in clutter.

Whether the workplace is a manufacturing warehouse or an office cubicle, a clean and organized environment can reduce the chances of accidents tenfold.

2. Implement A Workplace Injury Prevention Program

The best way to ensure that employees don’t get injured in the workplace is via a proper workplace prevention program. The program can train employees to be aware of hazards so that they can prevent accidents from happening in the first place.

A typical workplace injury prevention program should contain the following:

  • Worker participation.
  • Management leadership.
  • Hazard identification and evaluation.
  • Education and training.
  • Hazard prevention and control.
  • Training and education.

If properly implemented and maintained, the program will encourage employees to report hazards and respond to them proactively if need be. It will also reduce workers’ compensation claims.

3. Prevent Workplace Violence

Employees who cannot control their temper can get into fights in the workplace, which can lead to serious injuries. These can be prevented if said employees are screened out during the hiring process. However, some may slip through the cracks and make the workplace hazardous for others.

Employers can still prevent injuries by educating employees on warning signs that an individual may become violent:

  • An emotional reaction to setbacks and criticism.
  • A serious dip in job performance.
  • Inability to resolve conflicts.
  • Unreasonable demands.
  • Verbal threats and/or inappropriate comments.
  • Company policy violations.
  • Bullying or intimidating behavior.

Once a violent employee is identified, employers should take steps to help them and protect the team from them. Start by documenting their interaction with employees and seek advice from Human Resources for the best steps moving forward.

What To Do If An Employer Delays Or Refuses Compensation

Unfortunately, while the aforementioned tips on how to avoid common work related injuries can work, some accidents are unavoidable. For those circumstances, employees should have adequate workers’ compensation coverage so that they don’t have to worry about expenses such as medical bills. However, if injured employees are denied worker’s compensation, they have the right to sue.

If you are in this predicament, get in touch with the Law Offices of Robert Edens today. Robert ‘Bob’ Edens and his staff have been fighting for the rights of workers who got injured because of someone else’s negligence for years. We offer our services in Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, Woodstock, and Antioch, IL. Get in touch with us for a free consultation today!

Posted on

Does Fault Matter When Filing A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

Cook County workers compensation attorneyIllinois’ workers’ compensation law is based on a no-fault system, which means that even if you are at fault for your workplace injury, you are still entitled to full worker’s compensation benefits. If you are being denied, you have every right to hire a Cook County workers’ compensation attorney. However, there are some rare cases where the fault is irrevocably yours.

When Fault Doesn’t Matter

Here are some common examples of when a workplace injury is not your fault, even though it seems like it:

  • You hurt yourself running down a flight of stairs at top speed for a meeting you are late for.
  • You drop a heavy box on your foot breaking it even if you were careless while handling it.
  • You throw your back lifting a heavy object because your form was incorrect.

You can still get your medical bills taken care of and get time off work for these types of workplace injuries.

When Fault Matters

This doesn’t mean that fault never matters when it comes to a worker’s compensation claim. Here are some rare instances in which it can matter:

  • If you hurt yourself at work because you were inebriated or high. That can be considered a violation of workplace duties and may prevent you from getting full compensation. However if your Cook County workers’ compensation attorney can prove that your condition did not contribute to your accident, you can maximize the amount you receive.
  • If you were fooling around at work and got injured as a result. For example, you work as a security guard at a golf course and take a golf cart for a joy ride. If you get into an accident while driving and hurt yourself, your injuries may not be covered. That’s because the incident was not a part of your job duties.
  • You get into a fight with a colleague and you are the aggressor. You may not get compensation because you instigated the fight.

Proving An Injury Is Work-Related

While you don’t have to prove that a workplace injury was your boss’s fault, you do have to prove that it occurred at work. Workers’ comp fraud can carry serious consequences so pretending a home-based injury happened at work can land you in hot water.

The workplace injury has to be reported within 45 days. The longer you wait, the less likely your boss may believe your claim and may refuse to cooperate. The insurance company may latch onto this and say you don’t have grounds for a claim.

Personal Injury Attorney

Whether you were at fault for your workplace injury or not, you deserve compensation. If your boss or the insurance company is denying your claim, get in touch with our Cook County workers’ compensation attorney at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens today. We have over two decades of experience helping workers get the compensations they deserve and can help you too. We will take a detailed look at your case before formulating a strategy.

Posted on

How Are Personal Injury Awards Calculated?

Antioch personal injury lawyersOne of the most crucial things you need to know about when filing a personal injury claim is the maximum amount you can receive. To get a good understanding, it helps to know what factors go into the calculation. Antioch personal injury lawyers can help you with those, but here is a simple breakdown.

How A Personal Injury Claim Is Calculated

The compensation you receive is directly proportional to the severity of your injuries. So if they are severe, you should receive quite a substantial amount provided you have experienced Antioch personal injury lawyers in your corner. For example, you may not get as much compensation for soft tissue damage as you would get for a traumatic brain injury.

Your personal injury lawyer will calculate a ballpark figure based on not only the seriousness of your injuries, but also the pain and suffering you went through because of them. Some of the types of damages they will take into consideration include the following:

Economic Damages

These pertain to financial losses you incurred because of your injuries such as medical expenses, missed wages as you had to take days off from work to heal, payments for medical treatments, etc. If you had to take a lower-paying job because of your condition afterward, the difference in salaries will also be taken into account.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are challenging to calculate since they are not tangible. This includes pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of enjoyment in life. These damages recognize what you are going through to a certain extent beyond what economic damages can compensate for.

However, pain and suffering is far from a random amount. While Antioch personal injury lawyers do not have a set formula to calculate it, they have other ways to calculate it that can benefit you. Some of the factors they take into account to do this include:

  • The extent of your injuries.
  • Their impact on your daily life.
  • Your overall pain and discomfort.
  • Whether the injuries are disfiguring.
  • Loss of enjoyment in hobbies.
  • Overall pain and discomfort.

Punitive Damages

These damages are different because they are not intended to compensate you. Rather, they are used to punish the defendant if for example, they threaten you from making a claim or to prevent them from repeating the act that resulted in your injuries. Punitive damages are reserved for serious negative conduct on the part of the defendant. You may or may not be awarded these damages depending on the circumstances surrounding your case.

If you have suffered a personal injury because of someone else’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation. If the insurance company of the defendant or the defendant denies your claim, you have grounds to sue and should get in touch with the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens right away. We have acquired millions of dollars for our clients over the course of two decades and have seen it all.

Posted on

Do I Need An Attorney To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim?

workers' compensation lawyer in AntiochAccidents are a common occurrence in the workplace. You can fall off a ladder and break your arm, trip over wires and sprain your ankle or get carpal tunnel after years of typing. A workers’ compensation lawyer in Antioch can ensure you get the compensation you deserve if your employer refuses to give it. This includes the money you lose in terms of lost wages and medical bills.

Why You Should Hire A Workers’ Compensation Lawyer In Antioch

This is important because while recovering disability and medical benefits post a workplace accident should be a straightforward process, it rarely is. While the reason for hiring a workers’ compensation lawyer in Antioch is to maximize your financial recovery, he/she can also help you overcome any obstacles you may encounter. These include the following:

Your Employer Refuses To Believe/Denies The Accident Happened

This can happen if you suffered a slight injury at work and did not report it and it got worse later. The employer or insurance carrier may deny that the original injury happened at work. This can also happen if long-term effects of exposure to a toxic substance at work result in disease.

Your Employer Delays The Claim

Once you report an injury at work, the company has to provide you the proper paperwork immediately, so that you can record your claim. They should also report it to the compensation board and file a claim with the insurance carrier. If your employer is dragging his/her feet in a bid to miss the deadline or even because of sheer laziness, a lawyer can step in and expedite the process.

You Suffered Permanent Disabilities That Compromise Your Work Performance

Insurance companies are more likely to contest these claims since they tend to be the most expensive. A worker’s compensation lawyer in Antioch will ensure you get the amount you deserve if not more.

The Insurance Company Refuses To Pay For a Treatment Your Doctor Recommended

If your injuries require you to get rehabilitation, those visits may be deemed unnecessary by the insurance company which is wrong. Your lawyer can ensure they don’t get away with it and those treatments are adequately covered.

Your Employer Retaliates Against You For Filing a Claim

If your employer fires or demotes you or reduces your hours/pay because you filed a workers’ compensation claim, a lawyer can ensure your legal rights are protected. You can even claim damages resulting from the discriminatory actions.

Your Injuries Were The Result Of Someone Else’s Actions Or Misconduct

The worker’s compensation system was designed to avoid civil lawsuits in case of workplace injuries. But you can also sue outside it in certain circumstances. For example, if say a negligent driver who does not work for the company hit your car while you were driving to work or your employer did, an experienced lawyer can explain how the law applies to these situations.

Personal Injury Attorney

If you are in search of an experienced worker’s compensation attorney, get in touch with us at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens today. We have been fighting for the rights of workers like you for more than two decades. Get in touch with us for a consultation today.

Posted on

What Is The Time Limit To File A Personal Injury Case?

Personal Injury AttorneyIf you have been injured in a car accident, a slip and fall, or some other incident due to someone else’s reckless or careless behavior, you should be thinking about filing a personal injury case in Illinois’s civil courts.

However, it is essential that you know, understand, and comply with the statute of limitations in such a case. The statute of limitations is essentially a deadline before which a personal injury claim has to be filed.

Time Limit to File a Personal Injury Case

Illinois law has set a deadline of two years on filing a personal injury case in the state’s civil court. This two-year time limit usually starts from the date on which an accident takes place.

In certain cases, the two-year time limit might start from the date on which you found out about your injury, rather than the date on which you were actually injured.

Why Is There a Deadline to File a Personal Injury Case?

One reason why there’s a deadline to file a personal injury case is that as time moves on, it gets more and more challenging, or even impossible, to prove an injury in court. This is because there’s a high risk of the evidence getting lost or corrupted. Moreover, the people involved may start also start forgetting important details related to the incident.

What Happens if You Miss the Deadline?

If more than two years have passed since the time you got injured, but you still try to file a personal injury claim, the defendant will certainly take up this point in court and file a motion to dismiss. If the court dismisses your case, you will lose the entitlement to receive damages for your injuries, regardless of how serious they might be.

If you have any questions regarding Illinois’s statute of limitations and how it applies to your personal injury case, particularly if the deadline is near or has passed, you need to consult with experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens. We have more than twenty years of experience in safeguarding the rights of personal injury victims in McHenry & Lake Counties and are always ready to fight for your right to receive compensation.

Personal Injury Attorney

You can visit any of our offices located in Barrington, Woodstock, Grayslake, Waukegan, and Antioch or simply dial (847) 395-2200 to get in touch with our team.