Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog

McDonald’s E. Coli Outbreak and Food Poisoning: What Illinois Consumers Should Know

October 25, 2024 | John J. Malm

The recent E. coli outbreak linked to McDonald’s restaurants has raised concerns among Illinois residents and consumers nationwide about food safety. For those affected, it’s essential to understand your rights and the potential for compensation in cases of foodborne illness. In this blog, we’ll delve into E. coli and food poisoning cases, McDonald’s recent outbreak, and the legal recourse available to Illinois residents who may have suffered harm. Continue reading

What Makes Good Evidence in an Illinois Personal Injury Case?

October 18, 2024 | John J. Malm

When pursuing a personal injury claim, the strength of your evidence is crucial to securing fair compensation. The goal is to establish the defendant’s liability and demonstrate the full extent of your damages. Whether your case involves a car accident, slip and fall, dog bite, or other personal injury, presenting solid evidence can greatly influence the outcome. This blog will discuss what types of evidence are effective in personal injury claims and how they can help you maximize compensation.

Why Is Good Evidence Important in Personal Injury Claims?

In any personal injury case, the plaintiff bears the burden of proving their claim. Illinois law requires the plaintiff to show by a preponderance of the evidence that the defendant’s actions caused their injuries. Essentially, this means proving that it’s more likely than not that the defendant was at fault. Without strong evidence, it becomes much harder to establish liability and demonstrate the scope of your damages. Continue reading

Understanding Rotator Cuff Tears from Slip and Fall Accidents in Illinois

October 10, 2024 | John J. Malm

Rotator cuff tears are common injuries resulting from slip and fall accidents in Illinois. These injuries can be extremely painful, affecting a person’s ability to work or complete daily tasks. Understanding how a rotator cuff injury happens, how to prove liability in a slip and fall case, and how to maximize your compensation is crucial for those seeking justice.

What Is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. It helps stabilize the shoulder and allows for arm movement, such as lifting or rotating the arm. When one or more of these tendons is torn, the injury is known as a rotator cuff tear. Depending on the severity, these tears can either be: Continue reading

Why Lawyers Are Crucial in Securing Much Higher Settlements for Injury Claimants

September 19, 2024 | John J. Malm

When someone is injured in an accident, the decision to hire a lawyer can significantly affect the financial outcome of their claim. Studies and real-world examples show that claimants with legal representation generally secure much higher settlements compared to those who handle claims on their own. This difference arises from a lawyer’s expertise, negotiation skills, and ability to maximize compensation by using available resources. Continue reading

The Difference Between Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Claims in Illinois

September 12, 2024 | John J. Malm

Car accidents can be overwhelming and potentially life-altering, and the situation becomes even more complicated when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage. In Illinois, motorists are required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, but not all drivers comply. According to a study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC), about 12.6% of drivers nationwide are uninsured, and some studies estimate that this number can be higher in urban areas. Even those who carry insurance may have insufficient coverage to fully compensate victims for their injuries and damages. In these scenarios, uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) claims become crucial protections for injured individuals.

Understanding the differences between uninsured and underinsured motorist claims is essential if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance coverage. These claims can be complex, and the involvement of insurance companies can create further complications. To ensure that your rights are fully protected, it’s important to consult with a knowledgeable lawyer before proceeding with a claim. Continue reading

Defending Pedestrian Rights in Chicago: Legal Support for Accident Victims

September 6, 2024 | John J. Malm

Pedestrian safety is a critical concern in Chicago, where busy streets, intersections, and distracted driving have made walking increasingly dangerous. As personal injury lawyers dedicated to helping injured pedestrians, John J. Malm & Associates is committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and seeking justice for victims across the city.

Why Pedestrian Safety is a Growing Concern in Chicago

Chicago’s high-traffic areas and busy intersections pose significant risks for pedestrians. Whether it’s navigating downtown streets or crossing neighborhood roads, pedestrians in Chicago face unique dangers, and the consequences of driver negligence can be devastating.

The Impact of Poorly Maintained Roads on Motorcycle Accidents in Illinois

June 26, 2024 | John J. Malm

Motorcycle riding offers a sense of freedom and adventure, but it also comes with significant risks. One critical, yet often overlooked, issue is the impact of poorly maintained roads on motorcycle accidents. In Illinois, the state of road maintenance has become a pressing concern for motorcyclists, leading to numerous accidents, injuries, and fatalities. This blog delves into the impact of inadequate or improper road upkeep on motorcycle safety, and how it can lead to serious motorcycle accidents. Continue reading

What Should I Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

January 25, 2024 | John J. Malm

Hit and run accidents are scary. Often, after being struck by a hit and run driver, you are confused and worry about what to do next. Do you attempt to chase down the other driver or do you call the police? What if you were injured as a result of the accident? There are several steps you should take immediately to aid in the investigation and preserve any claims you may have against the hit and run driver. Continue reading

How Are Medical Bills Paid After An Accident?

February 9, 2023 | John J. Malm

Being involved in an accident is scary. Often, you will need to seek medical treatment for your injuries after the accident and the medical bills to treat your injuries can quickly add up. You may even consider putting off medical treatment until you figure out how your medical bills will get paid. While it is not a good idea to delay your medical treatment, there are several options to deal with medical bills while you receive treatment for your injuries. Continue reading

Dangerous Car Accidents Are On The Rise

December 12, 2022 | John J. Malm

A recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has shown that in the last year, more drivers are participating in dangerous driving activities, such as speeding, running red lights, and driving under the influence of alcohol. Data from the study shows that 24% more drivers drove while under the influence of alcohol from 2020 to 2021, 13% more drivers drove after an hour of consuming cannabis, 10% more drivers drove through a red light, and 12% more drivers drove 15 miles-per-hour over the speed limit when on the highway.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), traffic fatalities have risen since the beginning of the COVD-19 pandemic. The NHTSA estimated that 42,915 people died in motor vehicle accidents in 2021, an increase of 10.5% from 2020.