If someone has been injured in an accident, they may wonder if they should contact our Wheaton, IL personal injury lawyer for assistance. Our team at Therman Law Offices, LTD would say that consulting with a legal team after an accident that was mostly someone else’s fault is a wise choice. You could be owed more compensation than what an insurance company is offering you. With our presence overseeing your case, you can trust that opposing parties and insurance companies are going to be more willing to cooperate and provide fair restitution for your damages and losses. Ultimately, if you were seriously injured in an accident that was someone else’s fault, then talking with a lawyer about a potential personal injury case can help you yield the monetary compensation you need at this time. Below are just a few examples of personal injury cases that are worth speaking to our team about today.
Car Accidents
By far the most common personal injury accidents that people consult with a legal team about are car accidents. People can suffer greatly when they are hit by a careless driver. If this is what recently happened to you, then we know you may be dealing with serious injury. You may be missing work and losing money (or using your own vacation/PTO hours) because you have to stay home to rest. Being involved in a car accident can be what begins a series of unexpected financial losses. You may have medical bills, need to have repairs done or a replacement of your car, and so many other out of pocket expenses.
Dog Bite/Attacks
Yes, canines are supposedly a man’s best friend. They can be our closest guardians and just like any other member of the family. However, when dogs bite another person out of unprovoked aggression, owners are liable for the injuries caused. Dog owners must be aware of their dog’s behavior around people and other animals. When harm is caused because a dog acted out of aggression, then owners may have to compensate the victim for what they endured. If this has recently happened to you or a loved one, we urge you to speak with our dedicated personal injury attorney as soon as possible for counsel.
Premises Liability
Property owners, supervisors, managers, and staff are responsible for keeping a premises reasonably free of hazards. If someone slips and falls or sustains another injury because of poor lighting, broken stairs, slippery surfaces, or something else, then they may be liable for the victim’s damages. Property owners must notice and attend to any hazards on the property within a reasonable timeframe. Any evidence of negligence or not completely addressing a known problem can result in a case being filed against them.
Therman Law Offices, LTD
There are so many other types of personal injury accidents that can happen, such as bicycle accidents, boating accidents, bus accidents, construction accidents, elevator injuries, motorcycle accidents, nursing home abuse, pedestrian accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death, and more. If you are wondering whether you have grounds to file a case, please contact our IL personal injury attorney for a consultation. Our team at Therman Law Offices, LTD can come to your side and begin working for you right away.
Personal Injuries And Negligence
When a person suffers an injury due to someone else’s actions, it often falls under the category of personal injury law. Most personal injury cases are based on negligence, which refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, leading to harm. Whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, or a medical mistake, negligence plays a critical role in determining who is liable for the injuries. If you’ve been injured in an accident in Wheaton, understanding how negligence affects your case is crucial to obtaining compensation for your damages. A Wheaton personal injury lawyer from our firm can be of assistance for these matters.
What Is Negligence In A Personal Injury Case?
Negligence occurs when someone fails to act in a way that a reasonable person would under similar circumstances. In the context of a personal injury case, this means that the defendant (the person or entity responsible for the injury) acted carelessly or failed to act, resulting in harm to the plaintiff (the injured person). Proving negligence is a key component of any personal injury claim.
There are four essential elements of negligence that must be proven in a personal injury case:
- Duty of care: The defendant must have owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. For example, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws.
- Breach of duty: The defendant breached that duty by acting in a way that a reasonable person wouldn’t have in similar circumstances. This could be running a red light or failing to clean up a hazardous spill.
- Causation: The breach of duty must have directly caused the plaintiff’s injury. If the defendant’s actions didn’t contribute to the injury, they may not be held liable.
- Damages: The plaintiff must have suffered actual harm or loss due to the defendant’s actions, such as physical injuries, medical expenses, or lost wages.
Common Examples Of Negligence
Negligence can occur in many different ways. Car accidents, for instance, are often caused by negligent drivers who fail to follow the rules of the road or act recklessly. In slip and fall cases, a property owner may be negligent if they fail to maintain their premises in a safe condition. Medical professionals may also be held liable for negligence if they make mistakes that result in harm to a patient.
Regardless of the specific circumstances, the key factor is whether the defendant acted carelessly and caused the injury. Each case requires careful examination to determine if negligence played a part.
How Negligence Impacts Compensation
In personal injury cases, the amount of compensation an injured person can receive often depends on how much fault each party shares. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means that an injured person can still recover damages even if they were partially at fault for the accident, as long as their fault does not exceed 50%. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault in a car accident and the total damages amounted to $100,000, you would be eligible to receive $80,000, as the compensation would be reduced by your portion of fault.
Why You Should Contact A Lawyer
Personal injury cases involving negligence can be complicated and may require substantial evidence to prove fault. Witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony can all play a role in establishing the defendant’s responsibility. It’s also important to understand that insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame onto the injured party. Having a Wheaton personal injury lawyer on your side can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Call Therman Law Offices, LTD Today
If you’ve been injured in Wheaton due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to take action. Contact a Wheaton personal injury lawyer at Therman Law Offices, LTD today to schedule a consultation. We are here to help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Key Steps To Take After An Accident In Wheaton IL
Experiencing an accident can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to managing the immediate aftermath. Knowing what steps to take can make a difference in protecting your health, rights, and future well-being. Following a clear plan can help ensure you gather important information, manage any injuries, and begin the process of pursuing fair compensation. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we work with individuals and families in Wheaton, helping them through the process of seeking justice and the support they need.
1. Check For Injuries And Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety come first. After any accident, take a moment to assess yourself and others for injuries. If you or someone else is seriously injured, call for emergency medical assistance immediately. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms but could have long-term impacts. Having a medical record can also be helpful if you later decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
2. Report The Accident To Authorities
In most cases, reporting the accident to the appropriate authorities is essential. For vehicle accidents, call the local Wheaton police to the scene, as they will create an official report documenting the details of the incident. For workplace or other types of accidents, notify a supervisor or property manager. Having a documented record can help establish the facts of the accident, making it easier to demonstrate what happened should you decide to seek compensation later.
3. Gather Evidence At The Scene
If you’re able, gather as much information as possible while still at the scene. Start by taking photos of the accident location, any visible injuries, and any property damage. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information and if they would be willing to provide a statement. Documenting the scene thoroughly can be valuable if you need to work with a Wheaton personal injury lawyer, as it provides a clear picture of what happened and the immediate effects.
4. Exchange Information With Other Parties Involved
For vehicle accidents, exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, contact information, and insurance details. For other types of accidents, such as slip-and-fall incidents, make sure to get the property owner or manager’s contact information. Avoid discussing fault or making any statements that could be used against you later. Keeping communication to a minimum is often best until all the details are fully understood.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company
For accidents involving vehicles, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate information about the accident, but avoid making any statements that might indicate fault. Your insurer may guide you through the process of filing a claim and may require a copy of the police report and other details.
6. Keep Records Of Medical Treatment And Expenses
Keep a record of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to the accident. This includes emergency room visits, prescriptions, physical therapy, and any other related costs. Keeping track of these details can support your claim if you later decide to seek compensation with the assistance of a Wheaton personal injury lawyer. These records help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the financial impact of the accident.
7. Avoid Discussing The Accident On Social Media
While it may be tempting to share your experience on social media, it’s best to avoid posting about the accident or any related injuries. Insurance companies and legal teams often monitor social media for statements or photos that could contradict your claim. Staying silent online can help protect your case as it moves forward.
8. Consult With A Personal Injury Lawyer
Consulting with a personal injury lawyer can provide clarity on the next steps and your rights. An experienced attorney can help assess the strength of your case, gather additional evidence, and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. Having a legal professional on your side can relieve some of the pressure, allowing you to focus on recovering while they handle the details of your claim.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, Therman Law Offices, LTD is here to help. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable Wheaton personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the process and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.