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Chicago Personal Injury Lawyers
Legally Reviewed By Dan Christensen
This page has ben written, edited, and reviewed, by a team of our expert legal team following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by President and Founder, Daniel J Christensen who has more than 30 years of experience as a personal injury attorney
Fact checked By Dan Christensen
This page has ben written, edited, and reviewed, by a team of our expert legal team following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by President and Founder, Daniel J Christensen who has more than 30 years of experience as a personal injury attorney
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a preventable accident that was not your fault in Chicago, you likely have options for seeking compensation. However, you need an experienced personal injury attorney for help.
The Chicago personal injury attorneys at DJC Law are here for you. You can turn to our dedicated legal team to review your claim at no cost, answer your questions, and offer advice on your rights and options for pursuing compensation.
If you have a valid claim, you can trust we will do all we can to build a strong case and increase your chances of getting the full and fair compensation you deserve.
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Why Choose DJC Law to Handle Your Chicago Personal Injury Claim
DJC Law is renowned nationally as one of the premier personal injury law firms in the country, boasting a collective legal experience of over 200 years among its top-tier personal injury attorneys.
Led by the esteemed Dan Christensen, a board-certified personal injury trial lawyer, our firm stands out in the legal community.
Dan has been lauded by numerous prestigious legal entities, including Martindale-Hubbell and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
He is also recognized by most personal injury lawyers in America and the National Trial Lawyers Association, illustrating his leadership in the field.
Furthermore, his membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and receipt of the Clients’ Choice award from Avvo highlight his commitment to excellence in client service.
Under Dan’s guidance, our team comprises the most experienced and best personal injury lawyers, offering unparalleled legal representation to clients in Chicago and its environs.
Whether you’re seeking a seasoned Chicago personal injury lawyer or the best personal injury lawyers in the area, DJC Law is equipped to provide the advocacy you need.
To date, DJC Law has recovered tens of millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, including:
- $7 million settlement for consumer fraud
- $5.9 million recovery for a child’s head injuries
- $2.9 million recovery for a pedestrian accident survivor
- $2.25 million settlement for a trucking accident
We have a history of securing six- and seven-figure awards for our clients.
While we can’t guarantee results or how much money you could receive, we can promise to do all we can to help you obtain the maximum financial recovery possible.
Other factors to consider about working with our firm include:
- We pride ourselves on delivering personalized service to each client. Your needs are important to us, and you can rest assured we will take an active interest in your case.
- We foster open communication with our clients, and we will respond to your calls and emails promptly while providing regular updates as to the status of your case.
- We are tenacious and assertive negotiators and litigators. Our lawyers have gained reputations as assertive and passionate legal advocates who fight hard to help our clients achieve the favorable outcomes they expect and deserve.
- We will do all we can to increase your chances of success, and we won’t rest until we’ve exhausted all avenues to help you get the money you need.
- We are a veteran-owned law firm, and we have a special place in our hearts for the strong men and women who have sacrificed so much in the service of our country.
Additionally, our law firm offers free consultations, and our lawyers work on contingency.
You won’t pay us anything upfront to represent you, and we will only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you through an insurance settlement or court award.
For dedicated, impassioned counsel to help you and your family through this difficult time and improve your odds of getting the most from your Chicago personal injury claim, contact DJC Law today for a no-cost case review.
DJC Law Chicago Practice Areas
As a full-service personal injury law firm, DJC Law handles all injury claims resulting from someone else’s negligence or wrongful conduct.
Our team of attorneys handles a wide range of personal injury claims, and you can reach out to us to speak with:
Chicago Car Accident Lawyers
Chicago Truck Accident Lawyers
Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyers
Chicago Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
Chicago Wrongful Death Lawyers
Chicago Construction Accident Lawyers
Chicago Traumatic Brain Injury Lawyers
Chicago Accident Statistics
According to accident statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the Chicago area reported the following in a recent year:
- 98,563 total traffic accidents involving nearly 200,000 vehicles
- 24,078 total traffic-related injuries
- 230 total traffic-related fatalities
Most traffic accidents occur on Friday, and more collisions occur between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on any given day. Distracted, aggressive, and impaired driving are the leading causes of traffic accidents in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
What Are Common Injuries People Suffer in Chicago Accidents?
Accidents in Chicago, like any urban area, can lead to many injuries.
The types of injuries people may suffer in Chicago accidents are diverse and can vary based on the nature of the incident.
Common injuries in Chicago accidents include:
- Whiplash: Common in car accidents, whiplash is an injury to the neck caused by rapid forward and backward movement, often resulting from a rear-end collision.
- Broken Bones: Fractures or broken bones can occur in various accidents, including falls, car crashes, and pedestrian accidents.
- Head Injuries: Head injuries can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and can occur in car accidents, slips and falls, and workplace incidents.
- Back Injuries: Back injuries, including herniated discs and spinal cord injuries, can result from accidents involving heavy lifting, falls, or car crashes.
- Burns: Fires, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces or substances can cause burn injuries.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and contusions to soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and tendons can happen in various accidents.
- Eye Injuries: Eye injuries may occur in accidents involving flying debris, chemicals, or sharp objects.
- Dental and Facial Injuries: Facial fractures, dental injuries, and jaw damage can result from accidents.
- Sprains and Strains: Common in slip and fall accidents and incidents where individuals try to brace themselves during a fall.
- Respiratory Injuries: Accidents involving smoke, fire, or toxic chemicals can lead to respiratory injuries.
- Musculoskeletal Injuries: Musculoskeletal injuries like muscle and joint damage can result from various accidents.
These injuries’ severity and long-term effects can vary widely, and immediate medical attention is crucial to address them.
Seeking medical care and consulting a personal injury attorney can ensure you receive proper treatment and compensation if another party’s negligence caused the accident.
Our legal professionals can explain your rights and options for seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.
What Should I Do After an Accident in Chicago?
It’s often difficult to think clearly immediately after a traumatic accident. However, your actions following an accident in Chicago can significantly affect any subsequent legal or insurance proceedings.
Here are some steps you should take:
- Ensure Safety: First and foremost, check if the accident injured you or anyone else. If so, call 911 immediately.
- Notify the Police: Regardless of the accident’s severity, report it to the police. They will document the scene and create an official accident report, which you need for insurance claims or potential lawsuits.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible injuries, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Provide them with all the necessary details and cooperate fully with their investigation.
- Consult a Lawyer: A experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
Remember, every accident is unique, and these steps may not apply to every situation. Always use your best judgment and prioritize safety above all else.
How to Determine if You Have a Valid Personal Injury Claim in Chicago
After an accident in Chicago, you may wonder whether you have a valid personal injury claim.
Several key factors determine the validity of your claim:
Establishing Negligence
You must prove that a negligent party caused your injuries. Negligence can take many forms, from a driver failing to stop at a red light to a property owner not maintaining a safe environment.
Demonstrating Damages
You must have suffered physical, emotional, or financial damages from the accident. This could include medical bills, lost wages due to time off work, pain and suffering, or damage to your vehicle or property.
Statute of Limitations
Illinois has statutes of limitations for personal injury claims that define how long you have to bring suit against the parties that caused your injuries. The statute of limitations varies for different cases, so consult a personal injury attorney immediately for advice regarding your claim.
Comparative Fault
Illinois operates under a modified comparative fault system. This means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, your potential compensation may decrease by your percentage of fault. You may not recover compensation if you were more than 50 percent at fault.
Consult a knowledgeable Chicago personal injury attorney at DJC Law to review the specifics of your case, guide you through the legal process, and explain your rights and options.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Chicago?
In Chicago and all of Illinois, the time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit is typically two years from the injury or the date when you discovered or have discovered the injury with reasonable diligence.
However, certain exceptions and variations may apply to the statute of limitations.
Some important considerations include:
- Discovery Rule: In some cases, an injury may not immediately manifest. The discovery rule allows the statute of limitations to start when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the injury. This rule often applies in cases of medical malpractice or latent injuries.
- Minor Plaintiffs: If the injured party is a minor (under 18 years of age) at the time of the injury, the statute of limitations is typically tolled, meaning it doesn’t begin to run until the minor turns 18.
- This allows the minor to file a lawsuit within the two years following their 18th birthday.
- Government Entities: If the potential defendant is a government entity or official, you may face shorter time frames to provide notice of the claim and to file a lawsuit.
- Statute of Repose: Illinois has a statute of repose for medical malpractice cases, which imposes an absolute time limit on when you can file a lawsuit, regardless of when you discovered the injury.
- It’s typically four years from the alleged medical malpractice or within two years of when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered the injury.
Consult an experienced personal injury attorney in Chicago as soon as possible if you believe you have a valid personal injury claim.
They can explain the specific statute of limitations that applies to your case, meet all deadlines, and guide you through the legal process.
Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in the court dismissing your case, and you may lose the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
How Much Is My Chicago Personal Injury Claim Worth?
The value of your Chicago personal injury claim will depend on your specific case.
Personal injury claims seek compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages you suffered due to someone else’s negligence.
Here are some key factors that influence the worth of your claim:
Medical Expenses
The cost of your past and future medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, therapy, and other healthcare-related expenses, forms a significant component of your claim's value.
Lost Wages
If your injuries caused you to miss work or led to a reduced earning capacity, you can seek compensation for your lost income and potential future earnings.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish, can significantly increase the value of your claim.
Property Damage
If your accident damaged your vehicle or other property, your claim should cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Permanent Disabilities or Disfigurement
Severe injuries that result in permanent disabilities or disfigurement can lead to higher compensation due to the long-term impact on your quality of life.
Liability
You must establish fault or liability. You may recover full compensation if the other party is entirely at fault. However, if you share some blame, the value of your claim may decrease according to the comparative fault rules in Illinois.
Insurance Coverage
The insurance policy limits of the at-fault party's insurance company can also influence the potential recovery. If the policy limits are low, it may limit the amount you can recover.
Trial Outcome
If your case goes to trial, the outcome can affect the final value of your claim. A successful trial verdict may result in a higher award than the initial settlement offers.
To estimate your claim’s worth accurately, consult an experienced personal injury attorney in Chicago.
An attorney from DJC Law can evaluate the specific details of your case, consider all the factors mentioned above, and provide you with an informed estimate of the potential value of your claim.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney in Chicago?
As stated previously, the Chicago personal injury attorneys at DJC Law work on a contingency fee basis.
Under this arrangement, we will handle all aspects of your claim without charging you anything upfront or billing you for our services.
Instead, we will work diligently to help you recover compensation and take a percentage as our fee when all is said and done.
How Long Will My Chicago Personal Injury Claim Take to Resolve?
The timeline for resolving a personal injury claim in Chicago can vary widely based on the specifics of your case.
Here are some factors that can influence the duration:
- Severity of Injuries: Cases involving severe or complex injuries may take longer to resolve, as it can take time to fully understand the extent of the injuries and the long-term impact on your life.
- Medical Treatment: It’s often advisable to wait until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) before settling a claim.
- This means you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to from your injuries. Reaching MMI can take months or even years in some cases.
- Evidence Gathering: Gathering evidence, consulting experts, and building a solid case can take hundreds of hours.
- Negotiations: Negotiating a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company takes a long time, especially if they dispute liability or the value of your damages.
While you want a quick resolution to your claim, take your time with the process. Accepting a quick settlement might mean getting less compensation than you deserve.
A personal injury attorney can guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are protected while pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact DJC Law Today
You and your family have suffered too much already because of someone else’s negligence or carelessness.
You deserve fair compensation to fully cover your injuries and losses, but to get it, you need someone on your side with in-depth knowledge of Illinois’s personal injury laws and an understanding of how insurance companies operate.
You also want a lawyer with extensive experience negotiating favorable settlements and taking personal injury cases to trial.
The attorneys at DJC Law have the skills, knowledge, and resources to handle your claim effectively, and we are fully committed to helping you get everything you need to realize as full of a physical recovery as possible.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you get maximum compensation for the injuries you sustained due to another party’s negligent actions.
What’s the Process of Obtaining Compensation for My Chicago Personal Injury Case?
Navigating a personal injury claim can be complex, but understanding the process can help.
Here’s a general overview of what you might expect in Chicago:
- Seek Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention following an accident, even if you think your injuries are minor. This ensures your well-being and establishes a medical record linked to the accident.
- Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process, helping you understand your rights and options.
- Investigation: Your attorney will gather all necessary evidence to support your claim. This may include police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- File Claim with Insurance Company: Once your attorney has a clear picture of the case, they will submit your claim to the at-fault party’s insurance company. They will outline the facts of the case, your injuries, your medical treatment, and the amount you seek in damages.
- Negotiation: The insurance company will likely respond with a counteroffer and begin negotiations. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit. This initiates the litigation process, which includes discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a trial.
Remember, every case is unique, and this process may vary based on the specifics of your situation.
Having a knowledgeable personal injury attorney by your side can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout this process.
Client Reviews
“Wow! I’m impressed with everything DJC Law has done. Giselle and staff kept me updated on the process along the entire way. Thank you and I will be telling my friends and family about how well yall took care of me!”
– Ricardo A.
“From the first time I spoke with Melisa Perez, she was very professional and understanding. Melisa has helped walk me through paperwork and explained the process to me. She has been very knowledgeable in answering my questions. Would love to meet the legal team of DJC Law. Thank you for taking my case. I trust it will end well. Their main objective was knowing I get better and compensated.”
– Barbara G.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DJC Law handle cases outside of Chicago?
Yes, DJC Law handles personal injury cases throughout the state of Illinois. Our team has extensive experience representing clients in all types of accidents and injuries.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney at DJC Law?
At DJC Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only get paid if we secure compensation for you. If we don't win your case, you won't owe us anything.
What types of damages can I recover in a personal injury case?
The types of damages you may be able to recover depend on the specifics of your case. Generally, compensation can cover things like medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to your injuries.
How long will it take for my case to be resolved?
The timeline for a personal injury case can vary greatly depending on the specifics of your situation. Some cases may settle relatively quickly, while others may require litigation and could take months or even years to resolve. Your attorney will keep you updated throughout the process and work towards securing a favorable outcome in a timely manner.
Is there a time limit for filing a personal injury claim in Illinois?
Yes, there is a statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Illinois. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. It's important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss this deadline.
Can I still pursue a personal injury claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, Illinois follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages from the other party. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What happens if the person who caused my injuries doesn't have insurance?
If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your own car insurance policy, it may cover your expenses up to your coverage limits in this situation. Otherwise, you may need to file a lawsuit against the individual to recover compensation.
Why should I hire DJC Law for my personal injury case?
DJC Law has a team of experienced attorneys who are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured individuals. We have a track record of success and will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Are consultations with DJC Law free?
Yes, we offer free consultations for personal injury cases. This allows us to understand your situation and determine the best course of action for your case. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Can I still pursue a personal injury claim if the accident happened a long time ago?
In most cases, you can pursue a personal injury claim within two years of the date of the accident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, such as when the injuries were not immediately apparent. It's best to speak with an attorney to determine if you can still file a claim.
Is it worth hiring an attorney for a personal injury claim?
Having an experienced attorney on your side can greatly increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries. They can handle all legal aspects of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Will I have to go to court for my personal injury case?
Many personal injury cases are settled outside of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your case may go to trial. Our attorneys are prepared to fight for your rights in either scenario.
