Chicago Catastrophic Injury Attorney

Types of Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries

Victims of catastrophic injuries can seek compensation for the permanent or extended medical care their injuries require, as well as for losses that go beyond medical bills.

Economic damages in these cases typically include:

• Surgeries
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Nursing or at-home care
• Future medical treatment not yet incurred
• Lost wages and lost earning capacity
• Home and vehicle modifications required by a permanent disability

Non-economic damages cover intangible losses such as pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, scarring, and disfigurement. In cases involving gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm, punitive damages may also be available.

Families of victims who died from a catastrophic injury can bring wrongful death claims. A successful case may provide compensation for funeral and burial expenses, medical bills, and the loss of a loved one’s financial and emotional support.

How Driscoll Law Group Handles Catastrophic Injury Claims

When you hire Driscoll Law Group, your case is handled by Sean P. Driscoll and Courtney M. Driscoll directly, not delegated to associates. Sean has been recognized by Super Lawyers every year from 2017 through 2026 and by Best Lawyers. Courtney has been named a Super Lawyers Rising Star every year from 2019 through 2026. Together, we’ve recovered over $250 million in settlements and verdicts across our entire case history, including claims against major corporations and national entities.

When you work with our firm, we can:

• Investigate the cause of your injury
• Gather medical and physical evidence to support your claim
• Work with medical and economic experts to document your long-term needs
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• File a lawsuit and represent you at trial if a fair resolution can’t be reached

We offer free initial consultations and handle cases in English and Spanish. There’s no financial obligation to speak with us about what happened.

Speak With a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer in Chicago

Illinois’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of injury. Claims against government entities may carry shorter notice requirements, sometimes as little as one year. The sooner you connect with a catastrophic injury lawyer in Chicago, the more time there is to investigate, gather evidence, and build a thorough record before any deadlines arrive.

Connect with our firm online or call (312) 626-3008. We serve clients in Chicago, Harwood Heights, Champaign County, throughout Illinois, and across the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Difference Between a Catastrophic Injury & a Serious Injury?

A catastrophic injury permanently affects the victim’s ability to work, live independently, or perform daily self-care. A serious injury may require significant treatment but doesn’t necessarily result in permanent disability. The distinction matters legally because catastrophic injuries generate far greater long-term costs, which must be fully accounted for in any claim.

Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Was Partly at Fault?

Yes, in most cases. Under Illinois modified comparative negligence, victims who are not more than 50% responsible for an accident can still pursue compensation. The award is reduced by the victim’s percentage of fault, but it isn’t eliminated. Defendants commonly attempt to shift blame onto plaintiffs to reduce their exposure, which is one reason having legal representation matters.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Serious Injury in Chicago?

Seek medical attention first. Once you’re stable, document the incident by photographing the scene, collecting witness contact information, and keeping records of all medical visits and treatments. Contact a catastrophic injury attorney in Chicago as soon as you’re able. Early involvement allows an attorney to preserve evidence before it disappears and advise you on what not to say to insurance representatives.

How Long Do I Have to File a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Illinois?

The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of injury. Claims involving government entities may have shorter deadlines, sometimes as little as one year. Missing these deadlines typically may bar recovery, so acting promptly matters.