Palatine Personal Injury Attorneys

doctor bandaging patient wrist

Legal Help Pursuing Compensation for Accidents and Injuries

If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Palatine, Illinois, due to someone else’s negligence, hiring a personal injury lawyer can greatly benefit your pursuit of compensation. A legal advocate will help handle the complicated steps involved in filing a claim, negotiating with insurers, and, if needed, taking your case to court. 

When you have a law firm that is prepared to go to court on your behalf, that willingness to fight can strengthen negotiations and encourage fair offers from insurance companies and other at-fault parties. At Vito & Dollenmaier Law, you can work with a Palatine personal injury attorney prepared to fight for you. 

Our knowledgeable, experienced lawyers understand the stress and uncertainty that follow a serious injury. We have assisted clients in numerous types of personal injury cases, and we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. Our goal is to make recovering from your injuries as easy as possible. We will be there for you every step of the way.

Personal Injury Law in Illinois

Personal injury law is designed to protect victims and hold wrongdoers accountable for their actions. It involves legal claims brought by individuals who have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligent or wrongful behavior. 

These claims often aim to recover monetary damages that help cover medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. Having an attorney on your side will level the playing field and give you the best chance of recovering the full amount of compensation you are owed. 

Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise the care that a reasonable person would under similar circumstances. This may include distracted driving, failing to maintain property, or disregarding traffic signals.

Comparative Negligence in Illinois

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule when determining liability. If you share part of the blame for the accident, any compensation you receive may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20 percent at fault for a crash, your total award may be reduced by 20 percent. 

If you are found to be more than 50 percent at fault, you cannot recover compensation at all. Part of your lawyer’s role is to minimize any attempts by insurance adjusters to assign blame to you unfairly.

Types of Accident Cases Handled by Vito & Dollenmaier Law

With our understanding of the laws that affect personal injury cases and our experience recovering compensation for our clients, we can provide the legal help and support you need during this difficult time. At Vito & Dollenmaier Law, our attorneys have helped individuals from all walks of life secure compensation for accidents and injuries. We can assist with multiple types of personal injury cases, including.

Car Accidents

car accident

Car crashes frequently happen when drivers fail to exercise reasonable care. Distractions like texting or eating while driving can lead to accidents, as can speeding, tailgating, or ignoring traffic signals. Our Palatine car accident lawyers will gather evidence to demonstrate that the at-fault driver’s behavior caused your injuries. This can include:

  • Accident Scene Investigation. Photographs, skid mark analysis, and witness statements.
  • Police Reports. Documentation of traffic law violations or citations issued at the scene.
  • Cell Phone Records. Demonstrating that the driver was distracted by a call or text. 

We also handle cases involving uninsured or underinsured motorists. In these situations, our team can help explore other avenues for compensation, such as your own insurance policy’s uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.

Uber, Lyft, and Rideshare Accidents 

Rideshare services offer convenient transportation, but they also present unique legal challenges. The company’s insurance coverage may apply in some situations, depending on whether the driver was logged into the app at the time of the crash. 

If the driver was carrying a passenger or was on the way to pick someone up, the company’s policy might offer substantial coverage. We review app data, trip records, and other documentation to identify which insurance policy applies and who can be held accountable. A lawyer from Vito & Dollenmaier Law can help you with a rideshare accident case.

Amazon Delivery Accidents

With the rise of online shopping, Amazon and other delivery drivers now fill local roads. Some of these drivers may be under pressure to meet deadlines, leading to hurried driving or negligence. We examine whether Amazon or another party is liable based on factors such as driver training, supervision, and adherence to traffic laws. 

If a driver is considered an independent contractor, the legal analysis can become more complex. Regardless of how they’re employed, you have a right to seek damages when a negligent delivery driver causes you harm. Our attorneys have experience with auto accidents involving Amazon delivery drivers.

Truck Accidents

Collisions involving large commercial trucks can lead to catastrophic injuries because of the truck’s size and weight. Determining who is responsible may involve examining the following factors.

  • Driver Logs. Confirming compliance with hours-of-service regulations.
  • Truck Maintenance Records. Identifying mechanical failures or neglected repairs.
  • Employer Policies. Investigating whether the trucking company enforced safe practices or pressured drivers to violate guidelines. 

Severe injuries can involve long-term medical treatment or permanent disability. Our firm works to pursue damages that account for all current and future needs.

Motorcycle Accidents 

Motorcyclists are vulnerable on the road due to minimal physical protection. Even a low-speed collision can cause serious injuries. Common causes include drivers failing to check blind spots, distracted driving, or failing to yield. Our Palatine motorcycle accident lawyers work to hold negligent drivers accountable and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents 

Pedestrians and cyclists can be struck by drivers who speed, text, or otherwise disregard traffic signals. Recovering damages in these cases involves a careful examination of crosswalk laws, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness accounts. Injuries may be severe, often involving head trauma or fractures, and compensation can help address both immediate and long-term expenses.

Dog Bites 

Dog owners in Illinois must take steps to control their pets, whether on or off their property. If you suffer a dog bite, you might be entitled to damages from the owner or caregiver. Injuries can include puncture wounds, scarring, and the risk of infection. We can help you document how the incident happened and which parties might be responsible.

Premises Liability 

Property owners have a responsibility to keep their premises safe and free of hazards that could harm people. When property owners neglect conditions on their premises, slip-and-fall accidents or other hazards can lead to injuries. 

Whether it’s a retail store with a wet floor, a landlord who fails to fix broken stairs, or a homeowner who doesn’t maintain safe surroundings, the owner or occupant can be liable for injuries. We can assist you in proving that the owner knew or should have known about the hazard and did nothing to address it in time.

Wrongful Death 

Tragically, some accidents prove fatal. Surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim to seek damages for funeral expenses, lost financial support, and loss of companionship. We understand that no amount of compensation can fully heal the loss of a loved one, but holding negligent parties accountable can provide a sense of closure and financial relief.

How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?

In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of an accident or injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. There can be exceptions, such as cases involving minors or injuries that are not discovered immediately, but these are limited. Failing to file before the Illinois statute of limitations expires may cause you to lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. An attorney will help ensure that your case is filed on time so you do not miss out on any potential recovery.

Frequently Encountered Injuries in Personal Injury Cases

Many personal injury cases revolve around common types of harm, which can vary widely in severity. Understanding the nature of these injuries underscores why a fair settlement is necessary to fund your recovery.

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs). Concussions and more severe brain injuries can result from falls, car accidents, or being struck by an object. Symptoms may include chronic headaches, memory loss, and mood changes. Ongoing medical care and therapy might be necessary.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or full paralysis, imposing lifelong challenges. Costs for accessible housing, rehabilitation, and assistive technology can accumulate quickly.
  • Broken Bones and Fractures. A high-impact collision can cause fractures that require surgeries, casts, and extensive physical therapy. Some fractures may leave you with permanent limitations.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries. Sprains, strains, and whiplash can be painful and impact your mobility. While sometimes dismissed as “minor,” these injuries can still disrupt daily life and require medical interventions.
  • Internal Injuries. Internal bleeding or organ damage may not be immediately noticeable but can pose serious risks. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are necessary, and there may be lasting impacts.
  • Burns and Lacerations. Road rash, burns, or deep cuts can cause long-lasting pain and scarring. Treatment may require surgery or skin grafts, with permanent visible reminders of the incident. 

Any of these injuries can affect your ability to work, care for your family, or engage in routine activities. Compensation helps cover current and future costs while also recognizing the personal toll of your experience.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help. Key Skills and Services

A Palatine personal injury attorney wears many hats. At the most basic level, they represent your interests in seeking compensation. However, this involves several focused tasks and qualities that can significantly change the outcome of your case. Below are some of the skills and services an attorney from Vito & Dollenmaier Law can provide.

Thorough Investigation

An attorney will start by investigating every detail of your case. This can include collecting medical records, interviewing witnesses, gathering police reports, obtaining video footage (if available), and reviewing any other evidence that helps demonstrate how your injury happened. An in-depth investigation ensures a solid foundation for negotiation or litigation.

Accurate Valuation of Damages

Determining what your case is worth is more nuanced than just adding up medical bills. An attorney calculates the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. This comprehensive valuation can help you seek the maximum compensation available.

Negotiation Tactics

Insurance adjusters often try to settle claims for as little as possible. Attorneys are experienced in negotiating with these companies and countering tactics that undervalue or deny your claim. The willingness to go to court—if necessary—further strengthens your position because insurers know they must offer a fair settlement or face a potentially costly trial.

Litigation Experience

If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney will be ready to file a lawsuit and represent your interests in court. From drafting legal documents to arguing your case in front of a judge or jury, a personal injury lawyer’s litigation skills can have a significant impact on the final outcome.

Strategy and Case Management

Personal injury cases require careful planning and management. Your lawyer will schedule depositions, handle court filings, manage deadlines, and keep you informed every step of the way. This allows you to focus on your recovery without the burden of complicated legal tasks.

Resource Network

Personal injury lawyers often collaborate with medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and other experts who can provide testimony. The insights from these professionals can help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and shed light on how the accident occurred.

Compassionate Client Support

Dealing with an injury can be emotionally and physically overwhelming. A lawyer who offers compassion while advocating for your best interests helps you feel supported. When you work with Vito & Dollenmaier Law, you gain both a legal ally and a supportive team.

Contingency Fee Peace of Mind

Concerns about legal costs often deter people from seeking representation. With a contingency fee arrangement, you do not pay attorney’s fees unless you recover compensation. This relieves worry about how to afford legal services, making it more accessible for you to protect your rights.

Potential Damages in an Illinois Personal Injury Claim

Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers that might not truly reflect the value of your damages. While it may be tempting to accept a payout quickly, doing so without consulting a lawyer can leave you under-compensated. When bringing a personal injury claim in Palatine, you can pursue various categories of damages. While each case is different, below are the main types of damages you may see included in a settlement or court award.

  • Medical Expenses. These include ambulance fees, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs or prosthetics. Future medical expenses are also often recoverable if your injuries require ongoing treatment.
  • Lost Wages and Earning Capacity. When your injuries keep you from working, you may be able to recoup the wages you missed out on while recovering. If the accident leaves you with a lasting disability that reduces your ability to earn a living, you can also seek compensation for reduced earning potential.
  • Pain and Suffering. This category addresses the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your injury. It recognizes that the harm you endure goes beyond financial losses.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life. If your injuries prevent you from engaging in hobbies, sports, or activities you once enjoyed, you may be eligible for compensation addressing that lost quality of life.
  • Property Damage. Many personal injury cases involve vehicle damage, or damage to personal belongings like bicycles, motorcycles, or other property.
  • Scarring and Disfigurement. If your injury leaves you with a permanent scar, burn, or disfigurement, the law allows for compensation that reflects the psychological and physical impacts.
  • Wrongful Death Damages. If you lost a family member due to someone else’s negligence, a wrongful death lawsuit can help recover funeral and burial expenses, lost financial contributions, and the emotional impact on surviving relatives. 

Your attorney will compile all applicable damages to present a thorough claim. This supports negotiations with insurers and, if necessary, a convincing case at trial.

Choosing Vito & Dollenmaier Law in Palatine

At Vito & Dollenmaier Law, we’re dedicated to helping clients in Palatine and across Illinois seek compensation after serious accidents. We recognize that this can be a life-altering time for you and your family, so we aim to handle every aspect of your legal claim with empathy and diligence.

  • Local Focus. Our law firm serves Palatine and surrounding areas, including Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs. This local focus means we’re familiar with Cook County courts, the local insurance landscape, and the community we serve.
  • Community Involvement. The firm’s dedication to community work is not just a footnote—it’s a guiding principle that informs how we practice law. We view our clients as neighbors, and we strive to represent them with care and commitment.
  • Personalized Attention. We approach each case individually, tailoring our strategy to your unique situation. This includes addressing your specific injuries, financial concerns, and personal goals.
  • Full-Service Representation. From initial investigation to settlement talks and trial, we handle every phase of a personal injury claim. This means you can focus on your recovery rather than juggling legal tasks.

Contact Our Palatine Personal Injury Lawyers

If you or someone close to you has been injured because of another person’s negligence in Palatine or the surrounding communities, reach out to Vito & Dollenmaier Law for dedicated legal support. We offer a free consultation to learn more about your situation, answer your questions, and give you a clear path forward. 

Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on healing. Call us today at 224-539-8821 or contact us online to start pursuing the compensation you deserve.