Author: Jennifer Gulbrandsen

A railroad worker has secured a $4 million settlement following a serious workplace injury that required extensive surgery. The worker, a hostler driver for Pacific Rail Services, filed a lawsuit against a major transportation company and its subsidiary, citing unsafe work conditions and negligence under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA).

The injury occurred in 2021 when the worker’s hostler truck was rear-ended by a temporary employee operating another hostler truck at a company site. The lawsuit alleged that the company failed to enforce safety protocols and did not provide adequate safeguards to prevent such incidents. In response, the defendants filed a third-party complaint against the labor service provider that supplied the temporary driver, arguing that they were also responsible for the worker’s injuries.

As a result of the accident, the worker suffered a herniated disc and nerve damage in the neck, ultimately requiring a three-level cervical fusion surgery. Despite the severity of his injuries, he continues to work without restrictions. However, his legal team hopes the settlement will offer him financial flexibility, allowing him to reduce his workload or transition to a less physically demanding role.

The settlement was finalized on March 4 2025, with all involved parties reaching an agreement. The case was mediated, and a judge officially dismissed the lawsuit shortly after. Trial attorneys Joseph D. Parente, Dennis M. Lynch, and Matthew J. Coleman represented the worker and expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing that the compensation will provide significant opportunities for his future.

This case highlights the importance of workplace safety and accountability, particularly in industries where employees face high risks of injury. It serves as a reminder that workers have legal recourse when employers fail to uphold safety standards.

Car accidents are unpredictable and can happen to anyone at any time. The consequences can range from minor inconveniences to severe, life-altering injuries that require ongoing medical care. In these situations, the auto insurance policies you carry play a crucial role in determining the compensation available for your injuries and damages. In Illinois, having sufficient auto insurance coverage is not just a legal requirement; it’s a necessity for financial protection.

Why Auto Insurance Policies Matter

Auto insurance serves as a financial safety net, covering damages and injuries sustained in accidents. It ensures that injured parties receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other economic and non-economic losses. Without adequate coverage, accident victims may face significant financial burdens that could impact their lives for years to come.

Understanding Illinois Auto Insurance Laws

Illinois law mandates that all drivers carry basic auto insurance coverage, known as the 25/50/20 minimum liability limits. This means that if an insured driver causes an accident, their insurance provider will cover:

• Up to $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• Up to $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident
• Up to $20,000 for property damage

While these minimums are legally required, they may not be sufficient to cover all expenses resulting from a serious accident. Medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages can quickly exceed these limits, leaving drivers financially vulnerable.

The Need for Adequate Auto Insurance Coverage

Personal injury claims in Illinois are typically filed against the at-fault driver’s insurance. If the at-fault driver’s coverage is insufficient, victims may struggle to recover the full extent of their damages. To avoid financial hardship, it is advisable to carry higher-limit insurance policies that provide broader protection.

Additionally, drivers should consider purchasing uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who either lacks insurance or does not have enough coverage to pay for your damages. Having this extra layer of protection can mean the difference between financial stability and significant out-of-pocket expenses following an accident.

Auto insurance is a critical tool for mitigating the financial risks associated with car accidents. In Illinois, personal injury claimants depend primarily on the at-fault driver’s insurance for compensation, making it essential to have adequate coverage. By opting for high-limit policies and supplemental protections such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, drivers can safeguard themselves against unexpected financial burdens. Investing in comprehensive auto insurance provides not only legal compliance but also peace of mind, ensuring that you are fully protected whenever you’re on the road.

Car accidents are often overwhelming experiences, leaving victims unsure of what steps to take next. After a collision, it might be tempting to brush off minor discomfort or assume you’re unharmed. However, seeking immediate medical attention is essential, even if you feel fine. This crucial step can protect both your health and your potential personal injury claim. Let’s explore the reasons why prompt medical care is necessary after a car accident in Illinois.

The Hidden Dangers of Delayed Symptoms

The body’s natural response to trauma includes a surge of adrenaline, which can temporarily mask pain and injuries. As a result, many car accident injuries do not present immediate symptoms. Headaches, dizziness, neck or back pain, and numbness in extremities are all signs that may appear hours, days, or even weeks later. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious complications and prolonged recovery times.

For example, dizziness following an accident may indicate a concussion or whiplash. Seeking medical evaluation right away ensures that any underlying injuries are diagnosed early, allowing for timely and effective treatment.

Protecting Your Right to Compensation

If you plan to file a personal injury claim, obtaining medical care as soon as possible is important. Illinois law imposes a statute of limitations on personal injury cases, meaning there is a limited time to file a claim. Delaying medical treatment can weaken your case by making it harder to connect your injuries directly to the accident.

Medical records serve as vital evidence in personal injury claims, demonstrating the extent of your injuries and the treatment received. Insurance companies often scrutinize gaps in medical treatment, using them to argue that injuries were unrelated to the accident or not severe enough to warrant compensation. Seeking medical care promptly helps counter these tactics and strengthens your claim.

Establishing Causation and Damages

Receiving immediate medical attention also helps create a clear timeline of events, making it easier to prove that your injuries were caused by the accident. A comprehensive medical evaluation can uncover less visible injuries, such as internal damage or soft tissue injuries, which may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term effects.

Having thorough medical documentation is key to pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The sooner you seek treatment, the stronger your claim will be.

Preventing Long Term Health Consequences

Failing to address injuries right away can lead to chronic conditions, reduced mobility, and ongoing pain. For example, concussions and other head injuries might not show immediate symptoms but can cause significant cognitive and physical issues if left untreated.

Additionally, some injuries require early intervention for the best possible recovery. Seeking prompt medical care ensures that you receive the necessary treatment, helping to prevent further complications and long-term health challenges.

Meeting the Legal Duty to Mitigate Damages

Under Illinois law, personal injury victims have a “duty to mitigate” damages, meaning they must take reasonable steps to minimize the impact of their injuries. Seeking medical treatment promptly is a fundamental part of fulfilling this legal obligation.

Failure to seek timely medical attention can result in reduced compensation. Insurance companies and courts may argue that any worsening of your condition is due to your own negligence, limiting the damages you can recover. By prioritizing medical care, you protect your legal rights and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Take Action to Protect Your Health and Legal Rights

Seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident is essential for both your health and any potential legal claims. It ensures that hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated early, prevents long-term complications, and strengthens your case for compensation.

Your wellbeing should always come first. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, don’t delay in seeking medical care. Additionally, consulting with a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process effectively.

For a free case evaluation, contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form on our website. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you every step of the way.

New data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) offers a mixed bag of news regarding traffic safety in Illinois. While fatal vehicle crashes in 2024 fell to their lowest levels since 2020, the number of pedestrian fatalities remains alarmingly high. 

Encouraging Trends in Fatal Vehicle Crashes

In 2024, IDOT reported 1,103 fatal traffic crashes across Illinois, resulting in 1,196 deaths. These figures mark a 3.5% decline compared to 2023. Additionally, there were significant decreases in specific types of crashes:

• Cyclist fatalities: Dropped from 41 in 2023 to 35 in 2024, a 14.6% decrease, though still above the seven-year average of 30.
• Work zone fatalities: Plummeted from 24 in 2023 to just 13 in 2024.
• Motorcycle-related deaths: Fell by 9.3%, from 162 in 2023 to 147 last year.

These declines suggest progress in areas such as work zone safety and awareness campaigns targeting motorcyclists and cyclists.

The Persistent Problem of Pedestrian Deaths

While overall fatalities have decreased, pedestrian deaths have surged, highlighting a critical issue in Illinois traffic safety. In 2024, 219 pedestrians lost their lives in crashes, a 9.5% increase from the 200 fatalities recorded in 2023.

The six-county region of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, and Will counties saw 144 pedestrian fatalities in 2024, up 6.7% from 135 the previous year. This rise mirrors a national trend that has been ongoing for over a decade. “Since 2010, there has been nationally a huge increase in the number of people killed while walking,” said Victoria Barrett, Senior Transportation Planner at the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP).

Why Are Pedestrian Fatalities Increasing?

Several factors contribute to the rise in pedestrian deaths:

Vehicle Design: Research by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveals that larger vehicles like SUVs, pickups, and vans with taller hood heights are significantly more likely to cause fatal injuries to pedestrians. Unlike sedans, which tend to strike a pedestrian’s legs, larger vehicles often hit the torso or head, where vital organs are located.

Distracted Driving and Speeding: Both Barrett and Alex Perez, Advocacy Manager at the Active Transportation Alliance, note that distracted driving and pandemic-era speeding habits remain major contributors to collisions. Reduced traffic enforcement has exacerbated these issues.

Street Design: Suburban roads like North Avenue, characterized by fast-moving traffic and multiple lanes, are especially hazardous for pedestrians and cyclists.

Long-Term Trends: Professor Ian Savage from Northwestern University points out that pedestrian and cyclist fatalities have made up an increasing proportion of total traffic deaths in Illinois since the pandemic, rising from 18.3% in 2019 to 21.2% in 2024.

Efforts to Improve Safety for Vulnerable Road Users

State and local authorities are taking action to address these alarming trends. Here are some of the ongoing initiatives:

• IDOT’s Vulnerable Road User Safety Assessment: This recently completed report identifies high-risk areas and crash trends to prioritize safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Safe Travel for All Program: CMAP is working with Cook and neighboring counties to develop strategies aimed at reducing traffic deaths and injuries. An open house for the program will be held on February 22 at the Centre of Elgin.

• Increased Focus on Pedestrian Safety: “One fatality is one too many,” said IDOT Communications Director Guy Tridgell. The department is investing more time and resources into identifying tools and policies that improve safety for vulnerable road users.

The Road Ahead

While progress has been made in reducing overall fatal crashes, the rise in pedestrian deaths underscores the urgent need for further action. Enhanced vehicle design standards, stricter traffic enforcement, and improved road infrastructure could all play a role in reversing this trend. For pedestrians and cyclists, safety on Illinois roads remains a pressing concern that requires attention from policymakers, drivers, and communities alike.

After what can feel like a long process, the time has come for your workers’ compensation case to either win a verdict or reach a settlement. So now what? When dealing with a workers’ compensation case or any legal matter that involves a settlement, understanding the process can ease a lot of confusion. 

At the Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we do everything we can to have your funds dispersed to you in a timely manner. The process is two-fold; there’s the final work your attorney needs to do to complete your file, as well as an operational component that ensures all guidelines have been followed in order to have your funds dispersed free and clear of any more ‘red tape.’ Here’s a detailed breakdown of what happens from the time of verdict/settlement to the final disbursement of funds.

The Attorney Process

Settlement Contracts

Once the settlement agreement is reached, the plaintiff’s attorney drafts a document called a settlement contract.

This document outlines the settlement terms, including the payment amount, any bills that will be paid from the settlement, and legal releases for the defendant from any further liability for the incident in question.By signing this document, the plaintiff agrees not to pursue any additional claims related to the same event.

Limited Power of Attorney

Once settlement documents are executed,the attorney provides a Limited Power of Attorney (LPOA) form to the client for their signature. This allows the attorney to deposit the settlement funds into the client’s trust account once received. It also permits the attorney to negotiate and resolve liens or outstanding medical bills related to the case, which helps maximize the client’s net recovery.

Settlement Fund Timeline

After all paperwork is signed and submitted, it typically takes 60-90 days for the settlement funds to be processed and sent to the plaintiff’s attorney.

The Operational Process

After the funds are deposited into the client trust account and all bills and liens are resolved, the attorney prepares a settlement disbursement packet, which includes a breakdown of the settlement amounts. This packet is passed to the operations or accounting team for processing.

Disbursement of Funds

Once all numbers align with the total settlement amount, checks are issued in the names of the client and any medical providers.

The client is invited to the attorney’s office for a final disbursement meeting, where they review the settlement breakdown, ask any questions, and sign the closing statement.

Final Steps

After signing the closing statement, the client authorizes the attorney to send checks to medical providers for their portion of the settlement. The client receives their net settlement check, which reflects the amount left after deductions for liens, legal fees, and other case-related expenses.

Once all payments are made, the case file is officially closed. 

The settlement process can seem complex when your personal injury case is resolved, but with a knowledgeable attorney here at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem guiding you, it’s designed to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. From negotiating the terms of the release to ensuring every dollar is accounted for, this process ensures that you receive what you deserve while addressing any financial obligations tied to your case.

Workplace injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. Fortunately, the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act is designed to protect injured employees by requiring employers to cover medical treatment, lost wages, retraining if you can no longer perform your previous job, and compensation for any permanent disabilities. However, the process is not always straightforward, and securing your benefits may require navigating a complex system.

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we are here to help you every step of the way. Our experienced attorneys understand the intricacies of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation system and are dedicated to ensuring you receive the benefits you are entitled to while alleviating much of the burden from your shoulders.

Common Challenges in Workers’ Compensation Claims

Workers’ compensation claims can be costly for employers, which may lead to disputes over your eligibility for certain benefits. Additionally, the process involves legal and bureaucratic complexities that can be overwhelming, especially while you are recovering from an injury. This is where the guidance of an attorney becomes invaluable.

Our skilled team will file your initial claim, manage the necessary documentation, represent you in hearings, ensure you get proper medical treatment, and handle settlement negotiations to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. If your claim is unjustly denied, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Process

To help you understand what to expect, here is an overview of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation process:

Notice of Injury

Notify your employer of the injury as soon as possible, but no later than 45 days after the incident. Prompt notification makes it harder for your employer to dispute that the injury occurred at work.

Initial Treatment

After a workplace injury, seek medical attention immediately. If possible, go straight from the accident site to a hospital or clinic for diagnosis and treatment. You have the right to choose your healthcare provider, and all medical expenses should be covered by your employer without any out-of-pocket costs to you. If symptoms emerge later, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Notice of Work Restrictions

Obtain documentation from your healthcare provider regarding any work restrictions and inform your employer. This ensures that you comply with medical advice and establishes a record of your limitations.

Filing a Claim

We will file an Application for Adjustment of Claim with the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission, accompanied by an Attorney Representation Agreement naming our firm as your legal advocate. Our team will closely monitor your case and address any issues that arise, including appearing before the Commission to protect your rights.

Ongoing Medical Treatment

Your employer is responsible for covering all reasonable and necessary medical treatment related to your work injury until you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). MMI signifies the point at which further treatment will no longer improve your condition.

Independent Medical Examination (IME)

Your employer may request that you undergo an IME conducted by a non-treating physician to assess your condition, treatment needs, and work restrictions. Consult with your attorney before attending an IME to ensure your rights are protected.

Resolving Treatment Disputes

If there is a disagreement between your treating doctor and the IME physician, your attorney can request a hearing to resolve the dispute and advocate for your best interests.

Negotiating Additional Benefits

In cases where your injury prevents you from returning to your previous occupation, your employer may be required to cover retraining costs or provide a lump-sum settlement. We will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Why Choose Parente & Norem?

When you are dealing with a severe workplace injury, focusing on your recovery should be your top priority. Let us handle the complexities of the Workers’ Compensation process. Our attorneys have years of experience representing clients before the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission and in court. From filing claims to negotiating settlements, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has suffered a work injury, don’t navigate the Workers’ Compensation system alone. Contact The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., at 312.641.5926 for a free consultation. Let us provide the support and legal expertise you need to secure your benefits and focus on healing.

The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. would like to congratulate Christopher Norem on joining the leadership of the Illinois Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA) as their Secretary/Treasurer. 

Founded in 1958, ABOTA is a national association of experienced trial lawyers and judges. ABOTA and its members are dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the civil jury trial right provided by the Seventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. ABOTA membership consists of more than 7,300 lawyers—equally balanced between plaintiff and defense—and judges spread among 95 chapters in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. 

ABOTA is an invitation-only organization. Members must have at least five years of active experience as trial lawyers, have tried at least 7 civil jury trials to conclusion and possess additional litigation experience.

A father from Arlington Heights is taking legal action against KinderCare after his 5-year-old daughter was left on a school bus for several hours in sub-freezing weather. The incident, which took place last week, has left Wamui Mwiya angry and determined to seek justice for his child.

According to Arlington Heights police, the child, Dior Mwiya, had been on a bus returning to a KinderCare daycare center after attending kindergarten at Forest View Elementary School. She was discovered hours later by a concerned teacher, asleep on the bus.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Mwiya expressed his disbelief: “It’s like, how can you lose a child? It’s not a coat. It’s not a jacket. It’s a whole human being.”

The day began normally for the Mwiya family. Wamui dropped Dior off at KinderCare at around 6 a.m. on Jan. 14. From there, she was transported to Forest View Elementary School for her morning kindergarten class. However, when the bus returned to KinderCare, Dior was mistakenly left on board. She remained there for two to three hours as temperatures outside hovered around a frigid 14 degrees.

It wasn’t until later that morning that the daycare staff noticed Dior was missing. Wamui received a phone call from the center’s director, who initially claimed that Dior had never been dropped off at school that day.

Dior was rushed to a local hospital, where it was determined that she had not sustained any physical injuries. However, her father said she suffered emotional trauma from the experience.

While KinderCare declined to comment on the pending lawsuit, the organization did issue a statement acknowledging the incident and their failure to follow safety protocols.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the children in our care. We have strict safety protocols specific to bus safety that should have prevented this kind of situation. Unfortunately, those protocols were not followed. As a result, the staff member involved, and our center director, are both currently out of our center on administrative leave while we work with our agency partners to investigate,” the statement read. “We reported this issue to state licensing and are working with them and the police to determine what happened and what can be done to prevent this from happening again.”

Mwiya has since filed a lawsuit against KinderCare and hopes that his legal action will lead to systemic changes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“I almost lost my kid, and I just want everybody to know that that’s what they did to me,” he said. “I want justice for Dior.”

Attorney Jake Esp, representing the Mwiya family, said their team is focused on uncovering the details of what led to the incident. “After filing this lawsuit, we will be investigating this claim, trying to figure out what really happened,” Esp explained.

This incident has underscored the importance of rigorous safety measures when caring for young children. Mwiya’s determination to seek accountability serves as a reminder to childcare providers about the gravity of their responsibilities. As the legal process unfolds, the hope is that justice for Dior will pave the way for stronger safeguards to protect all children in daycare settings.

If you or a loved one have been harmed by another’s negligence, The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. is here to help. Call/text us today for a free case evaluation at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. Your path to justice begins with us. 

A personal injury case arises when someone suffers harm due to the negligence or intentional actions of another party. In Illinois, the legal framework allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for injuries caused by incidents such as car/transportation accidents, medical malpractice, wrongful death, and more. These cases aim to provide financial recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. On today’s blog, we’ll break down the essentials of personal injury cases in Illinois to help you understand your rights and options.

Types of Personal Injury Cases in Illinois

Car Accidents Car accidents are among the most common personal injury cases in Illinois. Often caused by negligent actions like distracted driving, speeding, or drunk driving, these incidents can result in severe injuries. Illinois is a fault-based state, meaning the responsible party’s insurance covers damages.

Example: A driver runs a red light and collides with another vehicle, injuring the other driver. The injured driver can file a claim for medical expenses and lost wages.

Truck Accidents Due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, truck accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These cases may involve multiple parties, including the truck driver, trucking company, and even manufacturers of defective truck parts. Federal regulations, such as those from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), also come into play.

Example: A truck driver falls asleep at the wheel, causing a multi-vehicle collision on I-294. Victims can pursue claims against the driver and trucking company for negligence.

Slip and Fall Accidents Slip and fall cases, or premises liability claims, occur when someone is injured due to hazardous conditions on another’s property. Illinois law requires property owners to keep their premises reasonably safe. Plaintiffs must prove that the owner knew or should have known about the danger but failed to address it.

Example: A grocery store customer slips on a wet floor without warning signs and breaks their arm. The injured party can sue the store for negligence.

Dog Bites Illinois has a strict liability law for dog bites. Dog owners are automatically liable for injuries caused by their pets, provided the victim was lawfully on the property and did not provoke the animal.

Example: A child playing in a neighbor’s yard is bitten by their dog. The parents can file a claim for medical costs and emotional distress.

Wrongful Death When a person dies due to someone else’s negligence or intentional conduct, their family can file a wrongful death claim. Eligible family members, such as a spouse or children, may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering.

Example: A pedestrian is struck and killed by a drunk driver. The family files a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver for their losses.

Product Liability These cases arise when defective or dangerous products cause injury. Illinois follows strict liability, meaning plaintiffs need only prove the product was defective and caused harm—not that the manufacturer was negligent.

Example: A defective airbag deploys improperly, causing injuries. The injured party can sue the manufacturer for producing a faulty product.

Key Legal Principles in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Negligence Proving negligence involves demonstrating that:

• The defendant owed a duty of care.
• The defendant breached that duty.
• The breach caused the plaintiff’s injury (causation).
• The plaintiff suffered damages.

Comparative Negligence Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re partially at fault for your injury, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you’re more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover damages.

Statute of Limitations In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of injury. Missing this deadline likely forfeits your right to compensation.

Damages in Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Economic Damages These include measurable financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.

Non-Economic Damages Compensation for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

Punitive Damages In rare cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish particularly reckless or malicious behavior.

Navigating Illinois Personal Injury Cases

Burden of Proof The plaintiff must prove their case by a preponderance of the evidence—meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant’s actions caused the injury.

Insurance Involvement Insurance companies often defend claims and negotiate settlements. An experienced attorney can help ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Settlement vs. Trial Most cases settle out of court. However, if a fair resolution isn’t possible, your case may proceed to trial, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.

How We Can Help

At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., we understand how overwhelming a personal injury can be. Our experienced attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the legal system and secure the compensation you deserve. From car accidents to wrongful death claims, we’re here to fight for justice on your behalf.

Contact us today at 312.641.5926 to schedule a free consultation. Your path to justice begins with us.