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Catastrophic injuries could result from any type of accident, including motor vehicle accidents, falls, and defective products. Handling insurance companies, medical bills, and a loss of wages could put undue stress on anyone, especially those attempting to recover from a severe injury.
When an accident arises due to another’s negligence, you could hold the responsible party or parties liable for the damage they caused with the help of an Orland Park catastrophic injury lawyer. Your dedicated personal injury attorney could not only handle any claims but also may be able to provide insight into settling with insurance or collecting evidence as you pursue a positive resolution to your case.
While any serious injury could be life-altering, the term “catastrophic injury” typically refers to injuries involving long-term or permanent impairment to body functions. These injuries may require rehabilitation, multiple surgeries, permanent disfigurement, and disability to help an individual recover. Typical examples of catastrophic injuries may include:
The ongoing need for treatment may lead to high medical costs, hospital bills, and additional care providers. Those who experience catastrophic injuries may often lose wages or be forced to stop working permanently.
This could create a devasting financial impact on a plaintiff and their families. Individuals who find themselves in this sort of situation should seek treatment and contact a catastrophic injury attorney in Orland Park to discuss any potential claims they may have.
One of the most critical aspects of recovering civil damages is demonstrating that the defendant—or liable party—acted with negligence. Depending on the nature of the accident that led to an injury, though, it is possible that a plaintiff may have contributed to an accident.
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence system, which allows individuals in this situation to still seek compensation from any responsible parties. This right is only guaranteed if a plaintiff is no more than 50 percent at fault for the accident, according to 735 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/2 1116. An Orlando Park catastrophic injury lawyer could help a person understand how comparative fault laws affect their injury claims.
Those who are found partially at fault for their own accident may not receive the full award amount thanks to the comparative negligence law Illinois courts follow. Injured individuals who share fault could have any award amount reduced by their own percentage of fault.
If drivers are found to be 30 percent at fault for an accident, they would be limited to recovering 70 percent of the amount awarded. If a catastrophic plaintiff is found by a jury to be 51 percent or more responsible, they could not recover compensation through a personal injury claim.
There is a deadline referred to as a statute of limitations on civil suits filed in Illinois state courts, including those centered around catastrophic injuries. Injured Orland Park residents generally have within two years from the date of the accident to file suit.
Plaintiffs of a catastrophic injury should reach out to a catastrophic injury lawyer in Orland Park as soon as possible after seeking medical treatment. This extra time could help their attorney develop a potential claim and ensure that is filed within the correct timeframe.
Catastrophic injuries may have a cascade of effects on you, your family, and your physical and financial health. You may wonder how you are going to pay for medical expenses, recover from your injuries, and support yourself while you are unable to work after a severe injury.
If another person’s negligence directly or indirectly caused the accident leading to your injury, you may be able to recover damages for harm sustained. Contact an Orland Park catastrophic injury lawyer today to discuss your claim and learn about potential legal options.