Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

Seeking Justice and Fair Compensation

If you were hurt in a crash, an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer can make all the difference in your recovery. Our law firm focuses heavily on motor vehicle accidents throughout the Chicago area, representing drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians injured due to someone else’s negligence.

From severe injuries to lost income and overwhelming medical bills, we understand the impact a serious accident can have on your life. With decades of combined experience representing clients across Illinois, our legal team is prepared to fight for your rights and pursue the fair compensation you’re owed.

Hundreds of Millions Recovered in Settlements and Verdicts

Our personal injury law firm has decades of experience representing auto accident victims across Chicago, with a proven track record of securing meaningful results in even the most challenging personal injury cases.

• $18,500,000 Settlement – Erica, a mother of two, suffered permanent spinal damage and internal injuries after a semi-truck crossed the center line and struck her vehicle head-on near I-355. The trucking company failed to follow federal safety regulations. Her lifelong medical needs and loss of income factored heavily into the settlement.
• $5,250,000 Settlement – Michael was riding his motorcycle through a busy Logan Square intersection when a car turned left in front of him. His leg was crushed and later amputated. The driver claimed not to see him, but traffic camera footage proved fault. His age and career in the trades influenced the recovery.
• $4,000,000 Settlement – Jason’s family received compensation after he was killed in a crash while riding as a passenger in a company vehicle during a work-related trip in downtown Chicago. Employer liability and the emotional and financial impact on his surviving wife and children were major components in the wrongful death settlement.
• $3,200,000 Settlement – Luis, a 58-year-old with a disability, was struck by a car while using a marked crosswalk near Navy Pier. He suffered significant orthopedic injuries, including a fractured pelvis and femur. Security footage confirmed the driver ran the light. His extended recovery contributed to the case’s value.
• $2,730,000 Settlement – Samantha, an avid cyclist, was hit by a city bus while riding through a green light in the South Loop. She sustained multiple fractures and underwent several surgeries. The bus driver failed to yield while turning left. Her age, active lifestyle, and long-term impact of the injuries influenced the result.
• $2,250,000 Settlement – Natalie, a 32-year-old tech worker, was biking to her office in Lincoln Park when a driver ran a stop sign and struck her. She sustained a head injury and has lasting cognitive effects. Her uninsured motorist coverage applied to the bicycle accident recovery after witness accounts confirmed fault.
• $1,680,000 Settlement – Derrick, a motorcyclist, was struck by a rideshare vehicle making an improper move after dropping off a passenger in River North. He was diagnosed with a mild traumatic brain injury and missed nearly a year of work. GPS and app data helped prove distracted driving, supporting the final settlement.

Why Choose Our Chicago Personal Injury Law Firm

Choosing the right personal injury litigation team after a serious accident can shape the outcome of your case. Our top-rated Chicago personal injury law firm has secured hundreds of millions in compensation for injury victims and their families throughout Illinois.

Recognized by Super Lawyers and maintaining a perfect 10.0 score on Avvo, our attorneys are known for providing strong, compassionate legal representation in cases involving motor vehicle accidents. With a long-standing reputation among the best personal injury lawyers in Chicago, we’re committed to helping injured clients rebuild with dignity and pursue justice through meaningful results.

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

Our top-rated Chicago personal injury lawyers represent clients in a wide range of accident cases throughout the city and surrounding areas. Whether you were hit in traffic, injured while walking, or harmed by a commercial vehicle, we’re here to help you pursue compensation for serious injuries, including brain trauma, catastrophic harm, and fatal losses.

Car Accidents

Chicago’s dense traffic and high-speed roadways, like the Kennedy Expressway and Lake Shore Drive, see thousands of crashes each year.

Whether you were rear-ended near the Loop or injured in a multi-car pileup on I-90, our skilled personal injury lawyers represent drivers and passengers suffering from serious injuries, including traumatic brain injury and spinal trauma. We build strong cases against negligent drivers, distracted motorists, and reckless behavior.

Motorcycle Accidents

From Milwaukee Avenue to Lakeshore paths, motorcyclists face unique dangers in Chicago traffic. We represent riders who’ve been sideswiped, cut off, or struck by inattentive drivers, often resulting in life-changing injuries or amputations.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys understand the challenges motorcyclists face in securing fair compensation, especially when fault is disputed or insurance companies attempt to shift blame.

Bicycle Accidents

Cyclists in neighborhoods like Wicker Park, Lakeview, and Pilsen share the road with fast-moving traffic, buses, and delivery vehicles. Many injury claims stem from dooring incidents, drivers ignoring bike lanes, or unsafe left turns. Our law firm fights for riders struck on streets and trails throughout the city, often handling cases involving broken bones, concussions, and permanent disability.

Rideshare Accidents

Chicago is a major hub for rideshare services, including Uber, Lyft, Via, and Curb. Passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers can suffer injuries when rideshare drivers act recklessly or fail to follow traffic laws.

Whether you were a passenger in a rideshare or struck by one, our personal injury attorneys handle these cases with the skill needed to pursue claims against major rideshare companies and their insurers.

Pedestrian Accidents

Busy intersections near the Magnificent Mile, downtown CTA stops, and neighborhood crosswalks are frequent sites of pedestrian accidents. Distracted or speeding drivers often fail to yield, leading to catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Our personal injury lawyers help pedestrians hit by vehicles while walking, jogging, or crossing legally, securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care.

Truck Accidents

Crashes involving commercial trucks, semis, and delivery vehicles—including FedEx, Amazon, and UPS—often cause catastrophic injury or wrongful death. Chicago’s major expressways and industrial corridors increase the risk of truck-related accidents.

We represent injured victims in claims against trucking companies, drivers, and insurers, holding them accountable for violations, fatigue, poor maintenance, and unsafe loads.

Like most personal injury attorneys, we also handle cases involving premises liability, nursing home abuse, workplace injuries, and medical malpractice cases.

What Damages Can Chicago Victims Recover in Personal Injury Claims?

Personal injury victims in Chicago have the right to seek financial recovery for the losses they’ve suffered due to someone else’s negligence. Damages may include medical expenses for hospital care, surgeries, and follow-up medical treatment, along with lost wages if the injury forced time away from work. If the injury limits a person’s ability to earn in the future, loss of earning capacity may also be part of the claim.

Many personal injury claims also account for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life–especially in cases involving long-term or catastrophic injuries. In wrongful death cases, surviving family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of support, and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.

Our experienced personal injury attorneys are committed to helping clients understand their rights and pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of their injuries and losses.

What Is the Average Personal Injury Case Worth in Chicago?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, the average personal injury case in Chicago is worth approximately $958,647, with reported settlements and verdicts ranging from as low as $1,612 to over $24 million. The median case value is significantly lower, at $39,901, showing that while some cases result in large recoveries, many settle for more modest amounts.

Several factors influence case value, including:

• The severity of the injury (e.g., broken bones vs. traumatic brain injury)
• Medical bills and future treatment needs
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• The degree of negligence by the defendant
• Whether the case is resolved through settlement, verdict, or arbitration
• Insurance coverage limits

Most personal injury cases are resolved by settlement or verdict, and plaintiffs prevail more often than not. However, every case is unique, and outcomes depend heavily on the facts, evidence, and quality of legal representation.

Example Personal Accident Cases Filed in Cook County

$24,473,285 Jury Verdict – Police Pursuit Crash Injures Three

A police pursuit in Springfield ended when a fleeing driver ran a stop sign and struck Orrin Holman’s vehicle, injuring Holman, passenger Jerry Gaston, and teen Casey Joy. Evidence suggested officers violated pursuit policies and failed to use lights or a siren. Gaston suffered a C3–4 spinal fracture that left him quadriplegic, requiring lifelong care. Holman sustained hip fractures, and Joy suffered lacerations. The jury found the fleeing driver fully responsible and awarded $24,473,285.

$23,564,606 Jury Verdict – Semi-Truck Crosses Median and Causes Catastrophic Brain Injury

Jillian Palenik was riding in a van on I‑80 when a tractor‑trailer crossed a wide median and struck her vehicle. She suffered massive brain trauma, multiple fractures, paralysis, and lifelong dependence on caregivers. Liability was admitted, so the trial focused on damages. Her past and future medical needs, loss of independence, and inability to work shaped the multimillion‑dollar award. A federal jury returned a verdict of $23,564,606 for her lifelong care and losses.

$22,583,253 Jury Verdict – Child Pedestrian Suffers Permanent Brain Injury

Twelve-year-old Roe Ann Lockhart was struck by a YMCA minivan in Harvey after school. She sustained a severe frontal‑lobe brain injury, leaving her wheelchair‑dependent with permanent cognitive and physical limitations. Her attorneys argued the driver failed to keep a proper lookout and should have anticipated children in the area. The defense disputed fault. The jury awarded $22,583,253, later reduced to $15,808,277 due to comparative fault.

$21,018,507 Jury Verdict – Fatal Truck Collision Leads to Wrongful Death Recovery

Roger Derdzinski died after crashing into a truck that was stopped on the roadside without hazard lights. The impact caused an explosion that left him with burns over most of his body. His estate argued the stopped truck created a deadly hazard. The defense claimed Derdzinski was speeding and following too closely. The jury awarded $21,018,507, later reduced to $19,967,582 for comparative fault, reflecting the profound loss suffered by his family.

$12,208,790 Jury Verdict – Rear-End Collision Causes Permanent Spine Damage

Truck driver Jeremy Dutton was rear‑ended by a pickup on I‑70. He later developed serious cervical spine injuries, proprioception issues, nerve damage, and a torn rotator cuff. Multiple surgeries followed, including spinal fusion and syrinx treatment. His experts linked the injuries to the crash and described lifelong pain and disability. The defense disputed causation, citing the low‑impact nature of the collision. The jury credited Dutton’s evidence and awarded $12,208,790.

$11,433,190 Jury Verdict – CTA Bus Stop Collision Causes Severe Brain Injury

Francoise Gordon exited a CTA bus near Lakeshore Drive and was hit by a car while crossing in front of it. She suffered a traumatic brain injury, multiple fractures, lasting tremors, cognitive issues, and permanent disabilities. Her attorneys argued the driver failed to yield, and the stopped bus created a hazardous situation. The CTA was found not liable, but the driver was. After comparative fault reductions, Gordon received $6,059,590.

$10,949,938 Settlement – Illinois State Trooper Killed in Rear-End Semi-Truck Crash

Illinois State Trooper James Sauter was parked on I‑294 when a semi‑truck drifted onto the shoulder and crashed into his squad car, igniting a fire. Evidence showed the truck driver had been on the road beyond federal hour limits and may have fallen asleep. Sauter died from extensive thermal injuries. His estate sought recovery for his lost wages, benefits, and the suffering he endured. Mediation resulted in a settlement of $10,949,938.

Why You Need a Chicago Personal Injury Attorney

Hiring a personal injury attorney is essential when facing the legal and financial aftermath of a serious accident. Injury cases often involve aggressive insurance companies, complex medical records, and liability disputes that can drag on for months or even years. In Cook County, where most personal injury lawsuits are filed, the court system is busy, and procedural missteps can delay or derail your case.

Whether your injury occurred on a city street, expressway, or CTA property, proving fault and recovering maximum compensation requires legal experience and familiarity with Illinois law.

An experienced personal injury lawyer will know how to gather evidence, work with medical experts, and present a strong claim, whether in negotiations or before a jury in the Daley Center or U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. You don’t have to face the legal process alone.

What Laws Govern Personal Injury Claims in Illinois?

Motor vehicle accident claims in Chicago are governed by a combination of Illinois statutes, municipal traffic codes, and case law that defines how fault is assigned and how accident victims can recover compensation.

The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5) sets the foundation. It includes traffic safety rules for all types of roadway users–covering speeding, DUI, distracted driving, improper lane use, and right-of-way violations. These rules often serve as the basis for proving negligence in personal injury claims.

The City of Chicago also enforces its own traffic regulations, which apply to drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike. Local ordinances include rules about cell phone use, turning restrictions, and yielding in crosswalks. These are especially relevant in collisions involving buses, delivery trucks, or those occurring near intersections, CTA stops, or bike lanes.

In addition to these laws, court precedent plays a significant role in shaping how fault affects a case. In Alvis v. Ribar, 85 Ill.2d 1 (1981), the Illinois Supreme Court replaced the strict contributory negligence rule with modified comparative negligence. This means injured victims can still pursue compensation if they are not more than 50% at fault, though any award is reduced based on their level of responsibility.

How Long Do Victims Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, auto accident victims have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit.

If the collision caused property damage–such as damage to your vehicle, phone, or bicycle–you have up to five years to file a separate claim under 735 ILCS 5/13-205.

In cases where an accident results in a fatality, the wrongful death lawsuit must typically be filed within two years of the person’s death, according to 740 ILCS 180/2.

Claims involving government vehicles or public employees–such as CTA bus drivers, Chicago Police officers, or city maintenance trucks–are subject to the Illinois Local Governmental and Governmental Employees Tort Immunity Act (745 ILCS 10).

If your claim involves a state agency or state employee, such as an IDOT vehicle or Illinois State Police officer, it must be filed in the Illinois Court of Claims under the Court of Claims Act (705 ILCS 505). A formal notice of claim typically must be filed within 12 months.

Because missing a deadline can permanently bar your right to recover compensation, speaking with a personal injury attorney as early as possible is critical. We help clients meet these time limits and protect their right to seek compensation after a serious crash.

Who Is Legally Liable for Traffic Accidents Leading to Serious Injuries in Chicago?

In personal injury cases involving traffic accidents, multiple parties may be legally responsible depending on how the crash occurred. The most common defendant is a negligent driver–someone who was speeding, distracted, impaired, or failed to yield. But liability can extend beyond the other motorist.

If the at-fault driver was working at the time, their employer may be liable under Illinois agency law. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft may share responsibility if one of their drivers caused the crash during a trip. In truck accidents, both the driver and the trucking company could be held accountable for issues like poor maintenance or hours-of-service violations.

If the accident involved a CTA bus, city-owned vehicle, or Chicago Police car, liability may fall under local or state government. Defective traffic signals or unsafe road design can also lead to claims against municipal agencies. Each case requires careful investigation to identify every responsible party.

Common Defenses in Chicago Personal Injury Cases

Defendants and insurance companies often rely on several common defenses to avoid paying compensation.

One is comparative fault, or arguing that you were partly or mostly to blame for the crash. Under Illinois law, if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you can’t recover damages. Our legal team works to minimize your share of fault by gathering strong evidence, such as surveillance footage, crash reports, and witness testimony.

Another frequent defense is pre-existing conditions, or claiming your injuries weren’t caused by the accident. We counter this by using medical records and expert opinions to show how the crash clearly worsened or triggered your condition.

Defendants may also argue the injuries aren’t as severe as claimed. We push back with medical documentation, treatment history, and testimony from doctors and specialists.

Finally, in government-related cases, immunity may be raised. We ensure all notice requirements and deadlines are met to preserve your claim.

How to Strengthen Your Personal Injury Case in Chicago

Taking the proper steps after a serious crash can make a significant difference in your ability to file a strong claim and recover maximum compensation. Here’s how to protect your health, your rights, and your case from the very beginning.

Seek Medical Attention

Always get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Some conditions, like concussions or soft tissue injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical treatment not only protects your health but also creates vital records that link your injuries to the accident, which is key in any personal injury claim.

Report the Accident

Whether the crash involved another driver, a rideshare vehicle, a truck, or a CTA bus, make sure the incident is officially documented. Call 911, speak with officers at the scene, and request a copy of the police report. In Chicago car accident cases, this report often plays a significant role in proving liability.

Gather and Preserve Evidence

Photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, injuries, traffic signs, and road conditions can make a big difference later. If possible, collect names and contact information of witnesses. The more detail you document early on, the stronger your injury case becomes.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may seem helpful, but their goal is to reduce payouts. Don’t give recorded statements or accept quick settlement offers without legal advice. Let your attorney handle all communication to protect your rights and the value of your claim.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

The sooner you speak with a top-rated Chicago personal injury lawyer, the better your chances of building a strong case. An attorney can guide you through the entire process, handle the legal work, preserve key evidence, and fight to help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

How an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer means having an advocate who handles every part of your case while you focus on healing.

From day one, our attorneys will investigate the crash, collect police reports, secure surveillance footage, and speak with witnesses. We’ll also coordinate with your doctors to understand your injuries and how they impact your daily life, which is critical in proving damages.

As your case progresses, our experienced lawyers will manage communication with insurance companies, push back against low settlement offers, and file a personal injury lawsuit if negotiations stall. If your case involves rideshare companies, trucking firms, or government vehicles, our attorneys will identify every liable party and meet all legal deadlines.

In court or at the negotiating table, our national trial lawyers work to present a clear, compelling case–so you have the best chance at full and fair compensation.

FAQs

How much does a Chicago personal injury attorney cost?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front. We only collect a fee if your case is successful. If there’s no recovery, you owe no attorney’s fees. We also offer a free initial consultation.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois?

In Illinois, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This is often a spouse, parent, or adult child. Any damages recovered go to the surviving family members as defined under Illinois law.

Consult the Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Chicago!

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a crash, don’t wait to get the support you need. Our top-rated personal injury lawyers are here to answer your questions, explain your options, and help you take the next step forward. We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Contact our Chicago, IL, law office for a free consultation to speak with an experienced attorney.