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Head Injury Lawyer in Chicago

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Paul M. Marriett
Paul M. Marriett

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Paul M. Marriett

When it comes to head injuries, the laws in Illinois are designed to protect the rights of victims and hold those responsible accountable. Whether your injury happened at work, in a car accident, or due to someone’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your pain and suffering. Navigating this legal process, however, can be complex. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Lawyer by your side.

Illinois law provides specific protections for victims of head injuries, from workers’ compensation laws to personal injury claims. Understanding these laws can help you secure the financial support you need to recover.

The Impact of Head Injuries

A severe head injury can cause more than just physical pain—it can have a profound emotional and psychological impact. The road to recovery often requires months or even years of medical care, rehabilitation, and therapy. The financial strain, combined with the mental and emotional toll, can make it feel impossible to move forward.

Physical and Emotional Toll of Head Injuries

Head injuries often lead to permanent cognitive or physical impairments that can affect your ability to perform daily tasks. You may experience:

  • Memory loss
  • Chronic headaches
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Speech or motor impairment
  • Loss of coordination

In addition to these physical consequences, head injuries can lead to:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Emotional instability

Types of Head Injuries and Their Effects

There are several types of head injuries, each with varying degrees of severity:

  • Concussions: A mild form of brain injury, but even mild concussions can have long-term effects if not properly treated.
  • Contusions (Brain Bruises): These are areas of the brain that have been bruised, leading to internal bleeding.
  • Skull Fractures: A break in the skull can expose the brain to additional damage.
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A severe and often permanent injury to the brain that can lead to cognitive dysfunction, paralysis, or even death.

Consequences of Severe Head Injuries

The impact of these injuries extends far beyond the immediate physical pain. They often cause:

  • Permanent cognitive or physical impairments: Difficulty thinking clearly, focusing, or performing everyday tasks.
  • Nerve damage: Long-term loss of motor function or chronic pain.
  • Psychological trauma: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common emotional effects following a severe head injury.
  • Financial strain: High medical bills, lost wages, and the cost of ongoing treatment can quickly add up, making it harder to cope with your injury.

Types and Causes of Head Injuries in Chicago

Head injuries can occur in a variety of situations. In Chicago, the law recognizes several types of head injuries and the causes that may lead to these injuries.

Types of Head Injuries

  • Concussions
  • Contusions
  • Skull fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Common Causes of Head Injuries

Head injuries often happen in the following situations:

  • Motor vehicle accidents: Car crashes, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents are common causes of severe head injuries.
  • Workplace accidents: If you were injured on the job, your employer may be responsible for ensuring a safe work environment. Failure to do so can lead to severe head injuries.
  • Falls: Slip-and-fall accidents are one of the leading causes of head injuries, especially in places where property owners fail to maintain safe conditions.
  • Assaults: Physical assaults and violent attacks can lead to traumatic brain injuries, particularly when the victim is struck on the head.
  • Sports injuries: Injuries from high-contact sports like football, hockey, or even cycling can lead to concussions or other severe head injuries.

Legal Protections for Head Injury Victims In Chicago

Illinois law provides several legal avenues for head injury victims to pursue compensation. Some of the primary legal protections include:

Premises Liability

Under the Illinois Premises Liability Act, property owners are responsible for ensuring their property is safe. If a head injury occurred due to hazardous conditions on someone’s property, they may be held liable.

Workers’ Compensation Act

Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act ensures that employees who suffer head injuries on the job receive the necessary medical care and wage replacement. However, you may also be able to pursue a third-party claim if someone else’s negligence caused the injury.

Product Liability Law

If a defective product caused your head injury (for example, a faulty helmet or safety gear), the Illinois Product Liability Act may provide grounds for a claim against the manufacturer or distributor.

Negligence Law

In Illinois, victims of head injuries may be able to recover damages under the comparative negligence rule even if they are partially at fault for the accident.

Legal Protections for Head Injury Victims In Chicago

Compensation for Head Injury Victims

If you’ve suffered a severe head injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses: Treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning potential.
  • Pain and suffering: Reimbursement for physical and emotional trauma.
  • Cognitive or physical impairments: Compensation for long-term or permanent impairments.
  • Loss of normal life: If your head injury prevents you from enjoying your usual activities, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss.

Statute of Limitations for Head Injury Claims in Chicago

In Illinois, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if your injury happened at work, you must report it within 45 days and file a workers’ compensation claim within three years.

Liable Parties in Head Injury Cases

Identifying who is at fault is a crucial part of your case. Potentially liable parties include:

  • Negligent drivers: If a car accident caused your head injury, the driver who was at fault may be liable.
  • Employers: If you were injured at work due to unsafe conditions, your employer may be held responsible.
  • Manufacturers: If a defective product caused your injury, the manufacturer may be liable.
  • Landlords: If your injury occurred due to hazardous conditions on someone’s property, the property owner may be liable.

How Our Chicago Severe Head Injury Lawyers Can Help

Dealing with the aftermath of a head injury is challenging enough. Let us handle the legal complexities. Our Severe Head Injury Lawyers offer:

  • Comprehensive case evaluation: We will thoroughly analyze your case to build the strongest possible claim.
  • Evidence gathering: From medical records to expert testimony, we collect all the documentation you need to prove your case.
  • Negotiation with insurers: We’ll handle the insurance companies, ensuring you receive a fair settlement.
  • Court representation: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we’ll represent you aggressively in court.
  • Future care planning: We ensure that your compensation covers your long-term medical needs and future care costs.

Steps to Take After a Head Injury

If you’ve suffered a head injury, here are the immediate steps you should take:

  1. Seek medical attention immediately: Always prioritize your health. Get a thorough evaluation, and follow your doctor’s recommendations.
  2. Report the incident: If the injury occurred at work, report it to your employer. If it was a slip-and-fall or car accident, notify the responsible parties.
  3. Preserve evidence: Take pictures of the scene, and gather witness information to strengthen your case.
  4. Consult an attorney: Reach out to an experienced lawyer for life-altering injury to discuss your legal options.
Steps to Take After a Head Injury

Take Action Today

Your Head injury may be life-changing, but it doesn’t have to define your future. 

Contact us TODAY (Chicago Injury Lawyer) for a FREE Consultation. Let our Severe Head Injury Lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. 

We are here to help you rebuild your life. Don’t wait—take action NOW. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What damages can I recover for a head injury?

You can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Can I file a claim if my injury happened at work?

Yes, you can file a workers’ compensation claim and potentially pursue a third-party claim.

What if I was partially at fault for the injury?

Illinois follows comparative negligence rules, allowing you to recover damages as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident.

How long does a head injury case take?

The timeline varies, but settlements can take several months, and trials may take longer.

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Chicago Personal Injury Attorney Office

Case Results

$14,000,000

TBI brain injury and POTS from electrocution.

$5,000,000

Injury settlement for patient dropped from medical transport bus with traumatic brain injury.

$3,000,000

Wrongful death settlement for family of driver killed when a semi truck ran a red light.

$500,000

For a semi truck crash victim with spine and brain injury

$295,000

For a dog bite victim suffering from complex regional pain syndrome.

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