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Catastrophic Injury

Chicago Catastrophic Injury Attorney

Compassionate Support for Victims of Serious Injuries in CHicago

When a person suffers an injury—whether it’s minor or serious—in an accident, the healing process can take either weeks or months for a full recovery. However, some injuries are catastrophic in nature and can have a long-lasting or permanent impact on a victim’s life.

Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries You Should Know

Many types of injuries can change your life. 

Some of the most common catastrophic injuries include:

If you have sustained a catastrophic injury caused by a negligent party in Illinois, our Chicago catastrophic accident attorneys at Leonard Law Group are dedicated to helping you seek the financial compensation you deserve. With more than two decades of legal experience, we have helped our clients obtain more than $1,000,000,000 in awards, settlements, and verdicts on their behalf. We can investigate accidents, gather evidence, consult field experts, and work to maximize your award.

Contact our Chicago catastrophic injury attorneys today at (312) 487-2513 to let us help you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries: What You Need to Know

A catastrophic injury is a permanent injury or illness that a victim must live with for the rest of their life. While many personal injuries are temporary, catastrophic injuries often result in lasting physical, emotional, or financial consequences.

Key Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in Chicago

The most common causes of catastrophic injuries include:

  • Car and motorcycle accidents – Motorcyclists, protected only by a helmet and padded clothing, face a higher risk of catastrophic injuries when involved in collisions with passenger vehicles.
  • Car and truck accidents – The size and weight of commercial semi-trucks, big rigs, and tractor-trailers make them especially dangerous. Passenger vehicle occupants can suffer catastrophic injuries when a truck crashes into them.
  • Pedestrian and bicycle accidents – Pedestrians and cyclists have little protection when struck by a vehicle.
  • Dangerous products – Defective products, from children’s toys to faulty work tools, can cause catastrophic injuries.
  • Dangerous property conditions – Hazards on public or private property, like tripping hazards or falling objects, can lead to serious injuries.

Local Insights on Serious Injuries in Chicago

In a city as vibrant and fast-paced as Chicago, serious injuries can happen anywhere — from the busy streets of the Loop to the peaceful paths of Lincoln Park. Understanding how local resources and laws work is key for anyone seeking justice and fair compensation after an accident.

The Reality of Accidents in Chicago

With dense traffic in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and River North, as well as numerous active construction zones across the city, residents face increased risks of serious injuries. The Chicago Department of Transportation and Chicago Police Department provide essential accident reports and safety information that can help support your case.

Beyond the physical pain, a severe injury can cause lasting emotional and financial strain. Many Chicagoans rely on their vehicles or public transportation for work and daily life, making an unexpected injury especially disruptive.

Our catastrophic injury lawyer in Chicago understands these challenges and is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the legal process. Whether you were injured downtown or in the suburbs, we’re committed to offering compassionate, personalized support.

How Illinois Law Impacts Catastrophic Injury Cases

Modified Comparative Negligence

Illinois approaches catastrophic injury cases with legal considerations that set it apart from other states. Illinois uses a modified comparative negligence rule, so your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for your accident, but you may still recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault. 

Statute of Limitations

Chicago residents pursuing catastrophic injury claims should know that Illinois law imposes strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing lawsuits in these cases. Acting within these deadlines is crucial to preserving your claim. In Illinois, the deadline is two years from the date of the injury.

Looking to the Future for Catastrophic Damages

From our years of experience, we know that one of the most important aspects of any catastrophic injury claim is accurately calculating damages. Immediately after a severe accident, victims already face substantial costs — including emergency medical care and property damage. However, the most significant and lasting expenses often appear long after the initial incident.

Catastrophic injuries can affect survivors for the rest of their lives, creating ongoing physical, emotional, and financial challenges. To seek full compensation, it’s essential to consider both current and future losses. Our team uses extensive legal and financial expertise to identify and pursue the full scope of damages.

Extended or lasting damages caused by a catastrophic injury may include:

  • Lifelong rehabilitation: Continuous therapy, such as physical, occupational, or speech treatment, may be necessary to manage pain, maintain mobility, or regain independence. These recurring expenses can accumulate substantially over the years.
  • Reduced earning capacity: Lasting injuries often prevent victims from returning to their previous jobs or earning their former wages. The difference between potential and post-injury income is a major factor in compensation.
  • Lifestyle and home modifications: Survivors may need to adapt their homes and routines for accessibility. These modifications may need to be repeated if they move in the future.
  • Shortened life expectancy: Some catastrophic injuries, such as severe brain or organ damage, can reduce life expectancy and overall quality of life.

The long-term costs of catastrophic injuries often grow, especially in a city like Chicago, where housing accessibility, transportation, and winter conditions add extra challenges. Our catastrophic injury attorney in Chicago is dedicated to helping victims and their families secure the compensation they need to rebuild and move forward with dignity.

Contact us at (312) 487-2513 for more information about how our serious injury lawyer in Chicago can help you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catastrophic Injuries

How Does a Catastrophic Injury Differ from Other Personal Injuries?

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that results in long-term or permanent disability, often affecting a victim's quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. Unlike other personal injuries that may be temporary and allow for a full recovery, catastrophic injuries can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations, which require ongoing medical treatment and can lead to significant lifestyle changes.

Why Should I Choose the Leonard Law Group for My Catastrophic Injury Case in Chicago?

Choosing the Leonard Law Group for your catastrophic injury case in Chicago means you will work with a team that has secured over $1 billion on behalf of clients. Our experience spans almost 30 years. Our commitment to personalized attention and a proven record of success makes us a strong advocate for your rights. We dedicate ourselves to helping you pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

 

 

 

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    “Attorney Joseph Leonard and his team were a pleasure to work with. They were highly professional and excellent communicators. They were also extremely knowledgeable about my case. I wouldn't hesitate to refer him to others.”