Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

Bike-share programs like Divvy have quickly become a popular way to get around in cities like Chicago and throughout Illinois. They offer affordability, convenience, and a more sustainable commute. But with more riders hitting the streets, bike-share accidents are on the rise, and the injuries that result can be serious.

If you’ve been injured while riding a Divvy or another bike-share service, hiring a bike-share accident attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make. At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we help victims of bike-share and scooter accidents recover the compensation they deserve.

What Makes Bike-Share Accidents So Legally Complex?

Unlike a typical bike crash, bike-share accidents often involve multiple responsible parties: the rider, a driver, the bike-share company, or even the city. The legal responsibility isn’t always clear, and the insurance coverage isn’t either.

That’s why it’s essential to work with a Divvy accident lawyer who understands the nuances of Illinois personal injury law and the specific policies governing bike-share services.

Benefits of Hiring a Bike-Share Accident Attorney

Expertise in Illinois Bike Accident Law

Our legal team brings years of experience handling personal injury claims across Illinois, including bike-share accidents. We stay current on laws and local ordinances that impact your case; ensuring your claim is built on solid legal ground.

Accurate Liability Assessment

Was the accident caused by a distracted driver? A defective bike? Poorly maintained roads? Our attorneys conduct a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties and ensure that you are not wrongfully blamed for the incident.

Maximized Compensation for Your Injuries

A serious bike-share injury can result in high medical bills, lost wages, and long-term effects on your quality of life. We seek full compensation for:

• Emergency care and hospital visits

• Physical therapy and ongoing treatment

• Lost income

• Pain and suffering

• Permanent disability or emotional trauma

Our attorneys won’t settle for less than what your case is truly worth.

Strong Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving commercial bike-share programs. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who know how to push back and demand fair results.

If necessary, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. We have a proven record of success in Illinois courts and will advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Less Stress, More Time to Heal

Dealing with medical appointments, bike-share companies, and insurance adjusters can be exhausting. Hiring a lawyer allows you to focus on your recovery while we manage all the legal details—filing claims, gathering evidence, handling communication, and more.

Our Legal Team Builds A Strong Case

The success of a bike-share injury claim often depends on expert testimony and evidence. We work with:

• Accident reconstruction specialists

• Medical experts

• Investigators and safety consultants

This network helps us build a powerful, evidence-backed case that strengthens your position—whether you’re pursuing a settlement or preparing for court.

Don’t Wait, Call/Text Parente & Norem Today

If you’ve been hurt in a Divvy bike accident or injured while using any other bike-share service in Illinois, time is critical. Evidence can disappear, and insurance companies may already be building a case against your claim. An early consultation with a personal injury attorney can make all the difference.

Call or text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. at 312.641.5926 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation today.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem was honored to sponsor and participate in the 10th Annual Roofer’s Cup Golf Outing, benefiting the Chicago Roofers and Waterproofers Charitable Foundation. This inspiring event brought together industry professionals for a day of golf, camaraderie, and most importantly, support for a cause that deeply resonates with our firm’s values.

Representing Parente & Norem at the outing was Partner Cole Munvez, who joined fellow attendees in supporting the Foundation’s mission:

Join us as we serve the needs of the innocent children who fight an ongoing battle against pediatric cancer and the devastating toll it takes on them and their families. Support us as we serve our Illinois veterans who defended their nation overseas, but the war continues for them when they return home. PTSD, long-term medical conditions, and the struggle for gainful employment and basic necessity of shelter. Their battles continue, ours has just begun.

Events like the Roofer’s Cup are more than just a chance to hit the links, they’re an opportunity to rally around vulnerable communities and make a real difference. We’re proud to stand with the Chicago Roofers and Waterproofers Charitable Foundation as they continue this important work.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s outing a success. We look forward to supporting the Foundation’s mission for years to come.

We are thrilled to welcome Trevor Granberg as a Partner at the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, where he now leads our Workers’ Compensation Department. With a deep commitment to advocating for injured workers and a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes in complex claims, Trevor brings a powerful blend of experience, insight, and compassion to the firm.

Trevor’s career has been rooted in protecting the rights of injured workers under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act, including those facing catastrophic injuries, permanent disabilities, occupational exposure, and wage differential or loss of trade issues. His background is uniquely balanced; he began his legal journey on the petitioner’s side and later represented municipalities and public safety departments on the defense side. This rare dual perspective allows him to anticipate insurance company tactics and tailor smart, results driven litigation strategies.

Throughout his career, Trevor has successfully tried numerous cases before Arbitrators, appealed benefit denials, and deposed a wide range of medical and vocational experts to strengthen his clients’ positions. His thoughtful, thorough approach consistently delivers positive outcomes that restore financial stability and peace of mind to injured workers across the state.

Trevor earned his J.D. from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law, where he made the Dean’s List and was actively involved in the Pro Bono Program and the International Human Rights Clinic. He holds a B.S. in Political Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he graduated cum laude.

As the new head of our Workers’ Compensation Department, Trevor is building a client-first practice dedicated to maximizing benefits, restoring lives, and fighting for those who need it most. We are proud to have him on our team and look forward to the outstanding advocacy and leadership he brings to our clients and our firm.

Welcome, Trevor!

Construction sites are dangerous by nature. Heavy machinery, elevated structures, electrical hazards, and countless moving parts all combine to create an environment where accidents can, and often do, happen. When they do, the results can be life-changing for the individuals involved.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury on a construction site, it’s essential to have the right legal support in your corner. The experienced personal injury attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. are here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to. Here’s why reaching out to a qualified attorney can make all the difference in your recovery journey.

Construction Accidents Can Be A Legal Maze

Construction site injuries often involve more than just a single misstep or moment of bad luck. These cases are wrapped in layers of legal and regulatory complexities. From OSHA violations to third-party liability, determining what went wrong; and who is responsible, requires an attorney with specific experience in construction accident law.

The attorneys at Parente & Norem are equipped to untangle these complexities, helping to ensure that all liable parties are identified and held accountable.

Getting a True Picture of Your Damages

The financial toll of a construction accident can go far beyond immediate medical bills. You may be facing lost wages, ongoing therapy, permanent disability, or emotional trauma. An experienced attorney can conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your damages, both present and future, to make sure nothing is overlooked when calculating your claim’s value.

Their goal? To help you secure compensation that reflects the full scope of your loss and supports your long-term recovery.

Identifying Who’s at Fault

On a construction site, liability isn’t always clear-cut. Multiple contractors, subcontractors, equipment providers, and even government agencies may be involved. An attorney will investigate the incident thoroughly;  gathering evidence, reviewing safety procedures, interviewing witnesses, and consulting industry experts to establish exactly who is responsible for your injury.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often move quickly after an accident, and not always in your favor. Their goal is to minimize payouts and close claims fast. That’s why it’s crucial to have a personal injury attorney negotiating on your behalf. At Parente & Norem, our attorneys will protect your interests, push back against lowball offers, and fight for a settlement that actually meets your needs.

Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve

The attorneys at Parente & Norem are skilled negotiators and dedicated advocates. They’ll build a compelling case that highlights the severity of your injuries, the disruption to your life, and the long-term consequences of the accident. Whether your damages involve lost income, medical bills, emotional distress, or long-term disability, they’ll pursue every dollar you’re entitled to under the law.

Ready to Go to Trial, If Necessary

While many cases are resolved through negotiation, some require litigation. If your case goes to court, you’ll want a trial-tested attorney by your side. Our team has the courtroom experience and legal expertise necessary to advocate for you before a judge and jury, and maximize your chance of a favorable outcome.

Don’t Wait to Get the Help You Need

Construction accident claims are time-sensitive. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of preserving crucial evidence and building a strong case. If you or someone you know has been injured on a construction site, don’t navigate this difficult time alone.

Call or 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. We’re here to stand up for you, and to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Accidents can happen without warning, often leaving a trail of physical pain, emotional stress, and unexpected financial strain. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, taking the right steps early on can make a world of difference; especially when it comes to gathering evidence. The days immediately following an accident are crucial. What you do (or don’t do) in this time frame can significantly impact the strength of your personal injury claim.

In this post, we’ll break down why evidence matters, what types to collect, and how to preserve it effectively, so you’re positioned for the best possible outcome.

Why Evidence Is the Backbone of Your Personal Injury Case

Strong evidence doesn’t just support your case, it is your case. It enables you and your legal team to prove the essential elements that lead to compensation, including:

• Fault Identification: Evidence helps pinpoint who was responsible for the accident, often revealing negligence or carelessness.

• Liability Establishment: To prevail in a personal injury claim, you must show that the other party’s negligence directly caused your injuries. Compelling evidence solidifies this connection.

• Damage Documentation: The right documentation shows the extent of your injuries and losses, from medical expenses and property damage to lost wages and emotional distress.

• Causation Proof: You’ll need to clearly demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship between the incident and your injuries.

• Negotiation Leverage: When dealing with insurance companies or preparing for trial, strong evidence strengthens your negotiating position and can lead to more favorable outcomes.

What Kind of Evidence Should You Gather?

Not all evidence is created equal, but collecting a broad range of it is your best strategy. Here’s what to focus on:

Scene or Accident Evidence

If you’re able, revisit the accident scene as soon as possible. Take photos of environmental conditions, hazards (like uneven surfaces or broken equipment), or anything else that may have contributed to the incident.

Physical Evidence

Tangible items like broken personal belongings, damaged vehicles, or torn clothing help illustrate the impact of the accident. If preserving these items isn’t possible, take detailed photos from multiple angles.

Medical Records

Keep a complete record of all medical visits, treatments, diagnoses, and prescriptions. These documents not only reflect the severity of your injuries but also help establish the financial impact of your recovery.

Witness Statements

Eyewitness accounts can be incredibly persuasive. Speak with anyone who saw what happened and gather their contact information. Their testimonies may confirm your version of events.

Relevant Documents

Organize and retain every document related to the incident: accident reports, medical bills, insurance paperwork, repair estimates, and receipts. These build a timeline and paper trail that can support your claim.

Expert Opinions

In complex cases, you may need insights from medical experts, accident reconstructionists, or industry professionals to strengthen your case. Their expert analysis can clarify technical or disputed elements.

Photos and Video Footage

Visuals are often the most powerful form of evidence. Take clear, timestamped photos and videos of injuries, property damage, and the scene itself.

Tips for Preserving Your Evidence

Collecting evidence is only half the battle, you must also preserve it carefully. Here’s how:

• Create Digital Backups: Store your photos, videos, and documents securely using cloud storage or encrypted drives.

• Organize Chronologically: Keeping everything in order helps build a clear narrative and streamlines the legal process.

• Store Physical Evidence Safely: Items should be kept in a safe, dry place where they won’t be damaged or lost.

• Work with a Legal Professional: A skilled personal injury attorney will know exactly what to collect, how to obtain it, and how to use it most effectively.

Let Your Evidence Speak for You

When it comes to personal injury claims, the smallest detail can make the biggest difference. Gathering and preserving evidence with care gives you the upper hand; ensuring you’re not left at the mercy of insurance adjusters or vague recollections.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of an accident can be. That’s why we guide our clients every step of the way, from securing critical evidence to negotiating with insurers and, if necessary, fighting in court.

If you or someone you love has been injured due to another’s negligence, don’t wait. Call or text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form on our website. Your path to recovery and justice begins with the right evidence and the right team.

Traumatic Brain Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents remain one of the most common and devastating incidents on the roads, not only in Illinois, but across the United States. While the physical damage to vehicles is often the most visible consequence, the hidden injuries can be far more serious. Among the most concerning are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), which can have lasting effects on victims’ health, cognitive function, and quality of life.

How Common Are TBIs in Car Accidents?

According to data compiled by the National Library of Medicine from 11 studies involving 2,769 patients involved in car, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents, car crashes were responsible for 43% of all traumatic brain injuries. In comparison, motorcycle accidents accounted for 30% and pedestrian accidents for 27%.

When pedal bicycle accidents were factored into the analysis, the share of TBIs resulting from car accidents dropped slightly to 40%, while motorcycles and pedestrians each accounted for 23%, and bicycles 14%. Regardless of the breakdown, car accidents consistently rank as a leading cause of traumatic brain injuries.

Another national study found that while car accidents contribute to about 14% of all TBIs in the U.S., they are the leading cause of TBI-related deaths among children and young adults. This underscores the critical need for improved safety measures and public awareness.

Why TBIs Are So Dangerous, Even Without a Direct Head Injury

One of the most troubling aspects of TBIs from car accidents is that they can occur even without a direct blow to the head. The violent jolt of a crash can cause the brain to move within the skull, leading to serious injury. This means that even if there’s no visible trauma, victims can still suffer significant harm.

That’s why it’s essential for anyone involved in a car crash to seek medical evaluation; even if they feel fine. Early detection and treatment can make a major difference in recovery outcomes.

What the Research Reveals About TBI Risk Factors

A study published in Brain Communications using data from over 2,000 car accidents in Great Britain found that 20.2% of all crash casualties sustained a traumatic brain injury. These injuries ranged in severity from mild concussions to more serious conditions like skull fractures and brain hemorrhages.

One key finding was the impact of velocity change (delta-V) on injury severity. As delta-V increases (the measure of how quickly a vehicle slows during a collision) so does the risk of moderate to severe brain injury. This was true across all road users, but pedestrians and cyclists faced the highest risk.

What You Can Do

Understanding the risks of TBIs in car accidents is the first step toward protecting yourself and others. Here are some proactive steps to take:

• Always wear your seatbelt and ensure passengers do the same.

• Follow speed limits and avoid distractions while driving.

• Encourage cyclists and children to wear helmets.

• Seek medical care after any car crash, even minor ones.

• Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney if you suspect a TBI may have occurred due to someone else’s negligence.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how life-altering a traumatic brain injury can be. If you or a loved one has suffered a TBI in a car accident, we’re here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Your health and legal rights matter; let us help you protect both.

Accidents are an unfortunate part of life, and when they happen due to someone else’s negligence, the consequences can be devastating. From mounting medical bills to emotional and physical recovery, personal injury victims often face overwhelming challenges. Fortunately, Illinois law offers pathways for victims to seek compensation through personal injury claims.

Understanding the most common types of personal injury cases can help you protect your rights and know when it’s time to contact an attorney. Let’s take a closer look at the top five.

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of personal injury claims in Illinois. Whether it’s a car crash, motorcycle accident, or truck collision, these events often result in serious injuries, property damage, or even fatalities.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Illinois reports thousands of injury-related accidents every year — with over 1,000 of them resulting in fatalities. If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and more.

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

Slip and fall injuries can happen anywhere: grocery stores, restaurants, sidewalks, or apartment buildings. Property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions on their premises. If someone trips over uneven flooring, slips on a wet surface, or falls due to poor lighting, the property owner could be held liable for failing to address known hazards.

These cases fall under premises liability and often require proving that the property owner knew (or should have known) about the dangerous condition.

3. Medical Malpractice

When we seek medical care, we expect a standard level of treatment. Unfortunately, medical errors are more common than many realize. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider’s negligence results in harm to a patient. This can include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis

• Surgical mistakes

• Medication errors

• Birth injuries

These cases can be complex and require expert testimony, but successful claims can lead to compensation for long-term care, lost income, and pain and suffering.

4. Product Liability

Consumers have a right to expect that the products they buy are safe to use. When defective products cause harm, manufacturers, designers, and distributors may be held legally responsible.

Common examples of product liability cases include:

• Faulty appliances

• Unsafe children’s toys

• Contaminated food products

• Defective medical devices

Injuries caused by such products may result from poor design, manufacturing errors, or lack of proper safety warnings.

5. Dog Bites

Dog attacks can cause serious physical and emotional trauma, particularly in children and the elderly. In Illinois, dog owners are held strictly liable for injuries their pets cause; even if the dog has never shown signs of aggression before.

Victims of dog bites may be eligible for compensation for medical treatment, scarring, emotional distress, and more. Often, these claims are covered under the dog owner’s homeowners insurance policy.

Know Your Rights 

Suffering a personal injury can turn your life upside down. But understanding the legal remedies available to you is the first step toward recovery. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, whether in a car accident, a fall, or another type of incident, don’t navigate the aftermath alone.

If you’ve been injured due to negligence, contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926, or fill out a contact form on our website for a free case evaluation.

When a child is injured because of someone else’s negligence, the path to justice is more complex than it is for adult victims. Special legal safeguards are in place to ensure a child’s rights and best interests are fully protected throughout the claims process. Whether the injury stems from a car accident, a slip-and-fall, or medical malpractice, it’s essential for families to understand how these cases work.

In today’s blog, we’re breaking down what parents and guardians need to know when pursuing a personal injury claim on behalf of a minor.

Who Can File a Personal Injury Claim for a Minor?

Because minors (anyone under 18) cannot legally represent themselves, a parent or legal guardian must file the claim on their behalf. In some situations, a guardian ad litem—a neutral third party—may be appointed by the court to represent the child’s best interests, especially if there’s a potential conflict of interest (for example, if a parent may be partially at fault).

While parents or guardians lead the legal process, any compensation awarded belongs solely to the child and is meant to cover injury related costs like medical expenses, emotional suffering, and future losses.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations sets the time limit for filing a claim, but when a child is involved, the rules often differ. In many states, the countdown doesn’t begin until the child turns 18. However, exceptions can apply depending on the type of case, the defendant, and state-specific laws.

To avoid missing critical deadlines, it’s crucial to consult a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the injury occurs.

How Compensation is Managed for Minors

When a personal injury claim involving a minor results in a settlement, the court closely oversees how the funds are handled. In most cases, the money is placed in a trust, structured settlement, or a blocked bank account; only accessible when the child turns 18.

This added layer of protection ensures the compensation is used appropriately, such as for ongoing medical care, therapy, or education, and prevents misuse by others.

Court Involvement in Minor Settlements

Courts take an active role in cases involving injured minors. If a settlement is reached, a judge will typically hold a minor settlement hearing to review the terms and make sure the agreement is fair and in the child’s best interest.

During the hearing, the judge will consider the nature of the injury, the amount of the settlement, and any future care the child may require before granting approval.

Types of Compensation Available

Damages in a personal injury case involving a child can include:

• Medical Expenses: Covers both immediate and long-term care needs.

• Pain and Suffering: For the physical and emotional impact of the injury.

• Loss of Future Earnings: If the injury will affect the child’s ability to work later in life.

• Parental Loss of Income: In some cases, parents may be compensated for time taken off work to care for their injured child.

Should You Settle or Go to Trial?

Most personal injury claims involving children are resolved through settlement rather than going to court. Settlements can provide quicker resolutions and help avoid the emotional and financial stress of a trial. That said, the decision depends on the strength of the case, the offer on the table, and whether the settlement adequately addresses the child’s future needs.

If a settlement is reached, it must be approved by the court to ensure it truly serves the child’s best interest.

Why You Need an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Given the additional rules and oversight involved in minor injury claims, working with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is key. An attorney will:

• Navigate legal procedures

• Handle negotiations with insurance companies

• Represent the child’s best interests in court

• Ensure all local and state requirements are met

From filing the claim to managing court approval and financial planning, an experienced attorney can help you avoid common pitfalls and secure the best outcome for your child.

Your Child Deserves Justice And So Do You

If your child has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t go through this process alone. Contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 for a free consultation with one of our skilled personal injury attorneys. We’ll walk with you every step of the way because your child deserves the best care, support, and compensation possible.

When it comes to personal injury law, negligence is one of the most important concepts to understand. In fact, it’s the foundation of most personal injury claims. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s carelessness, understanding what negligence means, and how to prove it, can make all the difference in securing the compensation you deserve.

Let’s break it down: what negligence really is, how it’s proven, and how it impacts your personal injury case.

What Is Negligence?

In legal terms, negligence is the failure to act with the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances. When someone’s carelessness causes harm to another person, they can be held legally responsible for their actions or inactions.

Think of it this way, if someone had a duty to act carefully and they didn’t, and their carelessness led to your injury, you may have a valid claim for negligence.

The 3 Key Elements of a Negligence Claim

To successfully prove negligence in a personal injury case, there are three core elements you and your attorney need to establish:

Duty of Care

You must first show that the person or entity who caused your injury had a legal duty to act with reasonable care. This duty can arise from everyday situations (like drivers having a duty to follow traffic laws) or more specific relationships (like a business owner’s responsibility to maintain safe premises).

Breach of Duty

Next, you’ll need to prove that the person breached that duty; meaning they failed to act with the level of care that was legally expected. This could be a driver texting while driving, a property owner ignoring a hazardous condition, or a professional failing to meet industry standards.

Causation

Lastly, there must be a direct link between the person’s breach of duty and your injury. In other words, you need to prove that your injury wouldn’t have occurred if it weren’t for the other person’s negligence.

Proving Each Element of Negligence

Duty of Care

The law generally requires people to act with “reasonable care” in situations where their actions could affect others. For example, drivers are expected to obey traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely. Certain scenarios, like medical malpractice or common carrier cases, may involve a higher or specialized duty of care.

Breach of Duty

Proving a breach isn’t always straightforward. Courts often look at what a reasonable person would have done in the same situation. If the defendant’s actions fell short of that standard, it may be considered a breach. In more technical cases, expert witnesses may be brought in to assess whether professional standards were violated.

Causation

You’ll need to demonstrate that your injury was directly caused by the defendant’s actions. Would you still have been injured if the person had acted with reasonable care? If the answer is no, causation is likely established. Some cases require detailed medical or expert testimony to make that link clear.

How Negligence Impacts Your Compensation

Negligence doesn’t just help prove who was at fault, it also plays a huge role in determining how much compensation you may receive. Here’s what factors into that:

• Duration of the Injury: Longer recovery times often lead to higher compensation.

• Permanent or Long-Term Effects: If your injuries result in lasting impairments, that increases the value of your claim.

• Medical Costs: Past, current, and future medical expenses—including surgeries, rehab, and medications are all considered.

• Lost Wages: If you’ve had to miss work or can no longer earn at the same level, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income or reduced earning capacity.

Taking Action After an Injury

Negligence isn’t just a legal term, it’s about accountability. When someone’s careless behavior causes harm, the law provides a path for victims to seek justice and financial recovery.

If you or someone you love has been injured due to another person’s negligence, don’t navigate the legal process alone. The first step is speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case and help you understand your rights.

Contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 for a free consultation with one of our experienced trial attorneys, or fill out a contact form right here on our website. We’re here to fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.

If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, understanding your rights and the compensation available is essential. Personal injury laws exist to ensure that victims can recover damages for their losses, whether financial, emotional, or otherwise. In this post, we’ll break down the different types of compensation you may be entitled to, including economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages, and wrongful death damages. We’ll also discuss limitations on injury compensation and how you can maximize your claim.

Types of Personal Injury Compensation

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover tangible financial losses resulting from an injury. These are relatively straightforward to calculate and may include:

• Medical Bills: Reimbursement for hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and other medical expenses related to your injury.

• Future Medical Costs: Compensation for ongoing or long-term medical care required due to permanent injuries.

• Lost Wages: Coverage for income lost while recovering from the injury.

• Future Lost Earnings: If your ability to work is permanently affected, you may be compensated for the income you would have earned.

• Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged in the incident.

• Other Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any additional costs incurred due to the accident, such as transportation for medical appointments.

Estimating these damages involves reviewing medical records, employment history, and expert opinions on future financial impact.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for losses that do not have a direct financial value but significantly impact your quality of life. These may include:

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort endured due to the injury.

• Emotional Distress: Coverage for psychological trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, resulting from the accident.

• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, intimacy, or support from a spouse or family member.

• Disfigurement: Damages awarded for permanent scarring or disfigurement caused by the injury.

• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities that once brought joy.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the defendant’s conduct was more than just negligent—it was reckless or intentionally harmful. Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. The amount awarded depends on the severity of the misconduct.

Wrongful Death Damages

If a loved one has died due to someone else’s negligence, their estate or family members may be entitled to wrongful death damages, which can include:

• Medical expenses incurred before death

• Pain and suffering experienced before death

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided

• Emotional distress and mental anguish experienced by surviving family members

• Loss of consortium (companionship and support provided by the deceased)

Limitations on Injury Compensation

While personal injury compensation is designed to provide full recovery, some legal and practical limitations may apply:

Tort Reform Limits

Some states have laws that cap the amount of compensation victims can receive, especially for non-economic and punitive damages. These limits are most common in medical malpractice cases and other specific claims.

Insurance Policy Limits

Most injury claims are paid through insurance policies, which have coverage limits. If your damages exceed the defendant’s policy limits, you may have difficulty collecting the remaining amount directly from the responsible party.

Seeking the Compensation You Deserve

Personal injury claims can be complex, involving multiple categories of damages and legal considerations. To ensure you receive fair compensation, it’s crucial to work with an experienced personal injury attorney who can guide you through settlement negotiations or court proceedings.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury due to another’s negligence, The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. can help. Call or text us today for a free case evaluation at 312.641.5926, or fill out a contact form on our website.