Uncertainty and devastation are often the primary feelings that parents experience when their child has been hurt due to another party’s recklessness. During a difficult time, the Morelli Law Firm extends a free consultation with our O’Fallon child injury lawyers to assess the details of your case while you decide if legal action is the best route for your family.
For over 25 years, our firm has made injury victims our main priority. We continue to seek maximum compensation to cover the present and future costs of those forever changed after an accident. We know that no amount of money will ever undo harm to your child, but we encourage you to consider your legal options after speaking with us in a free consultation.
Learn more about filing a personal injury claim in O’Fallon with the help of our O’Fallon personal injury lawyers, who will guide you at every turn. At no risk to you, find out if your child’s injury qualifies for a lucrative settlement.
Compensation an O’Fallon Can Seek on Your Behalf
Working with an experienced O’Fallon child injury attorney can significantly increase the financial compensation that can be recovered. While the specific dollar amounts can vary greatly based on the unique circumstances of the case, having legal representation typically results in far higher settlements and awards compared to going it alone.
Morelli Law Firm can help you seek damages to cover the full scope of your child’s injuries and losses, including:
- All past, present, and future medical expenses related to treating the injury
- Compensation for any diminished earning potential throughout your child’s lifetime
- Awards for pain, suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Reimbursement for lost wages and income by caregiving parents
- Funds to account for any disruptions or accommodations needed for your child’s education
In cases of egregious negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the responsible party.
Have You Been Injured In An Accident? Contact Morelli Law
877-751-9800Essential Evidence for Winning a Child Injury Case
One of the most beneficial things about hiring an O’Fallon child injury attorney is the comprehensive forms of evidence you’ll have building your child’s injury case.
If you were to pursue legal action alone, some of the following documentation may not be easily accessible but is still considered a pertinent part of winning your case:
Medical Records:
- Detailed medical reports outlining the child’s injuries, treatments received, and prognosis for recovery.
- Records of all healthcare provider visits, procedures undergone, and associated costs incurred.
- Documentation of any ongoing or anticipated future medical needs, such as rehabilitation, specialized equipment requirements, or long-term care plans.
Witness Statements:
- Statements from eyewitnesses who observed the incident can provide valuable insight into what transpired.
- Accounts from the child’s teachers, coaches, or other caretakers who can attest to the impact of the injury on the child’s daily life and activities.
Photographic/Video Evidence:
- Photos or videos capturing the accident scene, the child’s injuries, and any property damage that occurred.
- Visual documentation showcasing the child’s recovery process and any ongoing challenges they may be facing.
Police/Incident Reports:
- Copies of police reports, accident reports, or any other official documentation related to the incident that led to the child’s injury.
Expert Evaluations:
- Assessments from medical professionals, such as physicians, physical therapists, or psychologists, providing detailed insights into the child’s injuries, treatment needs, and long-term recovery prospects.
- Reports from economic experts, like life care planners or vocational rehabilitation specialists, estimating the child’s future care costs and potential lost earning capacity.
Financial Documentation:
- Receipts, invoices, and statements documenting all past and ongoing expenses related to the child’s medical treatment and care.
- Records of any lost wages or income incurred by the child’s parents or caregivers due to time taken off work to care for the injured child.
These types of evidence lead to a successful child injury claim. If you require assistance or have any questions that require legal knowledge, our attorneys are here to provide personalized guidance and support.
Process and Timeline for Filing a Child Injury Claim in Illinois
Filing a child injury claim in Illinois involves a specific process and timeline that must be followed to seek justice and compensation for the injured child.
- Seek Medical Attention: The first and most crucial step after a child’s injury is to seek immediate medical attention. The child’s health and well-being should be the top priority, and documenting the injuries and treatments received is essential for the legal process.
- Consultation with a Child Personal Injury Lawyer: It is advisable to consult with a Child Personal Injury Lawyer who specializes in handling child injury cases. A lawyer can provide guidance on the legal options available, assess the strength of the case, and outline the potential timeline for filing a claim.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering (zero to six months): The lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the child’s injury. This may involve collecting medical records, witness statements, police reports, and other evidence to support the claim.
- Filing the Claim: In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. It is longer for children, but waiting may jeopardize the strength of your evidence.
- Negotiation and Settlement (six to twelve months): After filing the claim, the lawyer will engage in negotiations with the at-fault party or their insurance company to reach a settlement.
- Trial (If necessary): If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. The timeline for a trial can vary, but it generally takes place within one to two years after the claim is filed. During the trial, both parties present their arguments and evidence before a judge or jury.
- Judgment and Appeals: If the court rules in favor of the injured child, a judgment will be issued outlining the compensation awarded. Either party may choose to appeal the decision if they believe there were errors in the legal process.
Working with a knowledgeable and experienced child injury lawyer in O’Fallon, IL, can help ensure that the legal process is navigated effectively and that the child receives the compensation they deserve for their injuries.
Contact our O’Fallon Personal Injury Lawyers today
877-751-9800Contact an O’Fallon Child Injury Lawyer Today
If you need legal assistance for your child’s injury case, consider reaching out to our O’Fallon child injury attorneys at Morelli Law Firm today. We can provide successful legal help and support to navigate the legal process.
We have decades of experience and successful case results that show how we always protect our clients’ best interests. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance and come in for a complimentary case review.
Call or text 877-751-9800 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form