Category: Personal Injury Lawyer

Bicycle accidents happen all the time. Unfortunately, some of them cannot be prevented when a driver is negligent, but other accidents are preventable with proper bicycle maintenance. Learn below about how to prevent bike accidents with maintenance. In addition, if you are hurt in a bicycle accident caused by someone else, our Palatine bicycle accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C., may be able to help.

Check The Tires

One of the most neglected aspects of bicycles is the tires. While many bicycle road tires can last for months or years, it is essential to inspect them regularly and replace them as needed. The rear tire gets considerable wear because of weight and drive force. It is not merely overuse that wears out bike tires; age breaks them down, too. So even if you still have a lot of tread on that three-year-old tire, it may be about to fail because of age. Any biker knows that a tire failing during a ride can lead to a crash and severe injury. It can be very serious if you fly down a hill at 20 or 30 MPH. So, check your tires before every ride and replace them if worn.

Check The Chain

You could fall if the chain breaks, locks up, or falls off while riding. This can be a severe problem when riding down a hill or navigating in traffic. Therefore, before each ride, you should check your chain for signs of rust, looseness, and weak links.

Take A Look At Your Safety Gear

Sometimes accidents cannot be avoided. When they happen, your helmet could save your life. Unfortunately, many accidents happen so fast that you do not have time to protect your head. You should replace your biking helmet every few years. Also, if you are in an accident and the helmet hits anything, replace it immediately. If it is an older helmet, ensure that it is ANSI or DOT-approved and meets modern safety guidelines. Also, see if your knee and elbow pads are worn. Remember, your safety gear is no good if it is old and worn.

Align The Handlebars

Properly aligning the handlebars can assist with keeping control of the bike, especially during evasive maneuvers. Also, make sure the handlebars are adjusted correctly for your height.

Tighten The Saddle

You may have tightened the saddle last year. But if you ride enough, it can loosen. So the last thing you need is the seat to get loose while you ride. Remembering these basic safety and maintenance steps before every ride can prevent a crash. However, if a driver hits you and they are at fault, you should talk to a Palatine bike accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Speak To A Palatine Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

Were you injured in a bicycle accident in Palatine because of someone’s negligence? Whether the accident happened near Falcon Park Recreation Center or the Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. The Palatine bicycle accident attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C., are ready to help you. Please contact us at (847) 395-2200 today. Our attorneys serve Palatine, Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, and Woodstock.

Do you enjoy riding your electric scooter or moped on Michigan Avenue or Lake Shore Drive in Chicago? Electric scooters and mopeds are popular in the Windy City and the surrounding area. They are lightweight, small, quick, and easy to ride. If you are in an accident on an electric scooter, talk to Waukegan motorcycle accident lawyers at Robert T Edens, P.C.

Illinois Electric Scooter And Moped Laws

Electric scooters and moped riders must have a Class M or L license in Illinois to ride legally. To get this license, you can obtain your motorcycle learner’s permit. In addition, you need to have finished a driver education program, and be taking a motorcycle training course. Several motorcycle training courses are available in Illinois:

Basic

This fundamental motorcycle course teaches basic riding skills in the classroom. Those who are at least 16 and have their learner’s permit get eight hours in the classroom and 12 on the bike. When you complete this course successfully, you might waive the written examination. You also may be eligible for an insurance discount.

Intermediate

This is a 9.5-hour class that includes motorcycle riding skills and ways to avoid accidents. You can usually waive the on-cycle examination and the written examination.

Basic Plus

Riders who take the basic and intermediate classes may benefit from this additional 8.5-hour class. However, you must already have your Class M or L license.

Advanced

There are two courses that are 8.5 hours long that concentrate on advanced riding skills, including braking and how to watch for other bikers and scooter riders on the road. Your learners’ permit is valid for 18 months if you are over 18. It is valid for 24 months if you are under 18. Also, if you are over 18, you can bring your driver’s license to the DMV and take the written, motorcycle, and vision tests. If you have taken the appropriate training courses, you might be able to waive one or more of the tests.

Electric Scooter And Motorcycle Laws In Chicago

According to Illinois law, an electric scooter or moped is a motorcycle. However, if the scooter or moped has a 50cc or smaller motor, with a top speed of 30 MPH, it is more than a bicycle, legally. You do not need an Illinois driver’s license to ride one of these. However, the scooter or moped must have an automatic transmission. But if the e-scooter or moped is larger than 50cc, you must have a Class M or L driver’s license. The vehicle must be licensed, insured, and registered. Also, if you ride in Chicago, you need to have a registration sticker that costs $50.

Contact Waukegan Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Now

Were you injured on an electric scooter or motorcycle caused by someone’s negligence? You should speak to a Waukegan motorcycle accident lawyer today. The personal injury attorneys at Robert T. Edens, P.C., may help you get compensation for your electric scooter injury. Contact our Waukegan motorcycle accident lawyers today at (847) 395-2200. Our attorneys are proud to serve the communities of Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, and Woodstock.

If you were in an accident in Illinois, you can sue for your losses. It is important to act quickly in Illinois because there is only a limited time to file a claim. Learn about the Illinois statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Then talk to our personal injury lawyers in Woodstock for a free consultation.

The Illinois Statute Of Limitations Is Two Years

The statute of limitations in Illinois for personal injury claims is two years. This means that you have only two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. Therefore, you should hire an attorney quickly after the accident to ensure they have plenty of time to investigate your claim. Also, if you have a medical malpractice claim, the statute of limitations ‘clock’ starts on the date of the injury or when you become aware of it. However, if the victim of the injury was a child, The statute of limitations runs for eight years from the date of the injury. Therefore, you must file a personal injury claim no later than the person’s 22nd birthday. The judge may dismiss your case if the claim is filed after the child’s 22nd birthday.

Why Only Two Years?

Why is there a statute of limitations to file a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois? It is more challenging to prove your injuries in court. Evidence may disappear, and witnesses may die or move away. Also, people may lose or throw away essential documents and records to prove liability. Your attorney will attempt to prove your injury claim in court with the most compelling evidence possible. The longer the time between the injurious act and the start of the suit, evidence could melt away. Also, a two-year statute of limitations allows the defendant to move on with their lives without being afraid of a lawsuit years from now. Illinois state law requires you to file your claim in a reasonable period of time from the date of injury.

What Is The Discovery Rule?

There are injury cases in Illinois where the plaintiff did not know they were injured for years after the incident. This is where the ‘discovery rule’ comes into play. You may have more time to file a claim if you only discovered your injury after the statute of limitations expired. However, it is still important to file the claim as soon as possible because the discovery rule has a limited scope.

Contact Personal Injury Lawyers In Woodstock

Were you hurt in an accident recently caused by someone’s negligence? You could be entitled to compensation in a personal injury lawsuit. However, it is vital to contact personal injury attorneys in Woodstock before the statute of limitations expires. The personal injury attorneys at Robert T. Edens, P.C. can help you get maximum compensation for your personal injury claim now. Contact our Woodstock personal injury lawyers today at (847) 395-2200. Our attorneys also serve the communities of Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, and Woodstock.

Getting reasonable medical care is one of the essential aspects when you are injured in a workplace accident. That is why your doctor’s opinion is important in your claim. If you have questions about a claim, a Grayslake workers’ compensation attorney can assist you.

Why Is Your Treating Physician So Important?

The treating doctor for your workers’ compensation case carries tremendous weight during the claim. Unlike a medical professional who only looks you over once, the treating physician for your claim checks your injury recovery over time. This gives the treating physician a better grasp of your injuries, future treatments, and how likely you will fully recover. As a result, your physician will make several decisions during the claim:

Diagnosing And Treating The Injury

For you to receive workers’ compensation, you need a full diagnosis from the treating physician. Your doctor will also supervise the medical care for your injuries. For example, he will decide if you should have physical therapy or pain medications.

Referring You To Medical Specialists

The treating physician must usually sign off on referrals to specialists. For instance, he will need to approve a back surgeon for your back injuries is evaluating you. In addition, the treating physician plays a critical role by listening to you and advocating for necessary future treatments. Without this important information, you may not receive essential medical treatments.

Offering Evidence For The Claim

At every doctor’s appointment, your doctor will write medical records that provide evidence for the case. Therefore, it is vital that your doctor carefully document your injuries and treatments. Also, how he monitors your recovery will ensure the claims process is smooth. The doctor probably will need to provide sworn testimony about your claim, too. During a court hearing, your doctor’s opinion carries a great deal of weight.

Determining Level Of Disability

After you get to your maximum medical improvement, the doctor will determine if you have partial or total disabilities. His conclusions are critical for determining what your permanent benefits might be.

Determining Your Ability To Work

The doctor will decide how long you should be off work and receive payments. This gives you a chance for a full recovery and to receive wages. The doctor also will decide when it is safe for you to return to work. If you go to work too soon or do not have proper restrictions, you could exacerbate your injuries.

Contact Our Grayslake Workers’ Compensation Attorney Today

Being hurt in a workplace accident is upsetting and stressful. You cannot work or pay bills, so how will you get on with your life? Fortunately, a Grayslake workers’ compensation attorney can get you money for your medical bills and lost earnings. These funds may be vital to your recovery. The Grayslake workers’ compensation attorneys at Robert T. Edens, P.C. can help you get you as much money as possible for your claim. Contact us today at (847) 395-2200. Our attorneys also serve the communities of Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, and Woodstock.

You might want to file a workers’ comp claim if you were hurt at work. Unfortunately, many employers will fight a legitimate Illinois Workers Comp claim because they think a claim could increase their premiums. They also may want to prevent other workers from filing claims. Antioch workers’ comp lawyer can help you.

Companies Want To Reduce Insurance Premiums

Employers must pay an insurance company for workers’ comp coverage. Premiums are partially based on what the insurance company pays in claims. The claim costs could increase insurance premiums if you are out of work for three months and need two surgeries for a broken leg. Your employer may contest the claim. Further, if several employees file a claim quickly, insurance premiums may skyrocket. The employer might think that if they fight your claim, other workers will also think twice about filing.

Companies Want To Safeguard Their Reputations

The employer might fight your Antioch workers’ compensation claim because they fear the damage to their business reputation. If you suffered a severe injury or a permanent disability because of hazardous job conditions, this could damage the company’s reputation. If it is a public company, it could damage its stock value. As a result, company executives may tell their managers to deny workers’ comp claims as much as possible.

How Will A Company Fight A Workers’ Comp Claim?

The most common way they fight workers’ comp claims is by saying you are not hurt. Employers are often suspicious of claims that involve repetitive motion injuries. For example, if you have to lift tires every day at the auto shop and claim you have a back injury, the insurance company might argue your pain is minor. Some injuries that cause debilitating pain might not be evident on diagnostic tests. However, the pain and suffering you have are real. Another way the employer may fight your claim is by saying you were not acting within your job description when the accident happened. For example, if you work in a warehouse and were hurt on a forklift you do not usually use, they may say you were working outside the scope of your employment. Or, you were driving as part of your job by the Chicago Art Museum and Navy Pier when you were hurt in a car accident. Your employer might say you were not working when the crash happened. If you file a workers’ comp claim, there is a good chance your employer will contest the claim. Your employer’s primary interest is reducing expenses, including insurance costs. That is why hiring a skilled workers’ comp lawyer to represent you and fight for your rights is essential.

Contact An Antioch Workers’ Comp Lawyer Now

If you were injured in a workplace accident, you might have pain, medical bills, and be unable to work. How will you make ends meet? The Antioch workers’ comp lawyers at Robert T. Edens, P.C. can help you get maximum compensation for your workplace injury claim. Contact us today at (847) 395-2200. Our attorneys also serve the communities of Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, and Woodstock.

Teachers are in danger in schools from violent students, active shooters, poor maintenance, and an administration prioritizing student comfort over their safety. These underpaid and sometimes unpaid professional educators have to deal with challenging parents, students, and other stressors that can lead to mental illness and physical injuries. If you are injured during any of these altercations or accidents at school and wish to return while on workers’ compensation, you can claim disability.

Attending School as a Teacher While On Workers’ Compensation

If you were injured at school and your doctor says you can return with certain work restrictions, you can do so by claiming temporary disability benefits. Antioch workers’ compensation attorneys are dedicated to ensuring they get the compensation they deserve via successful workers’ compensation claims if their employers deny their claim. For example, say you injured your hip at school and had it replaced. Eventually, your doctor told you that you could return to school, but with restrictions, by claiming either temporary or permanent disability. You can claim the latter if your condition cannot improve further with treatment. Suppose the school doctor says you can work in your condition, but your employer refuses to reinstate you or accommodate you. In that case, you can and should sue for damages with help from Antioch workers’ compensation attorneys. As per Illinois law, they must reinstate you with restrictions or stay at home with two-thirds pay (under temporary disability). If your condition cannot improve further, but you can teach and claim permanent disability, your employer should accommodate necessary restrictions that can allow you to work. If they refuse, they can be held liable for back pay and other damages if you take them to court.

Responding To a Permanent Disability Claim Denial

If your permanent disability claim was denied, you could appeal the decision. First, understand why the decision was made – you may have missed a critical deadline, entered incorrect information in a form, etc. Ask for a copy of your claim file as well. It contains every piece of information that the insurance company used to examine your claim. Gather supporting evidence so the judge has all the information needed to make a ruling in your favor. If you are also receiving other benefits, such as Social Security Disability, make sure those documents (such as approval letters and benefit statements) are in your file. These will support your permanent disability claim.

Take Action Now! Contact Robert Edens For A Legal Consultation Today!

Contact Robert Edens to discuss your legal options if your disability benefits are denied, or the school refuses to reinstate you after you claim permanent disability. Bob will take a deeper look at your case to determine the strategy he will use to ensure you get maximum compensation for damages sustained. The Law Office of Robert T. Edens has been dealing with workers’ compensation claims for decades. No client is forced to sign contracts, and the first call is free. The advice will be priceless. Book a consultation today by dialing 847-395-2200. All meetings are 100% confidential, so you can rest easy knowing the information you provide is in safe hands.

While workers’ comp can ensure your medical bills are paid, and you don’t go in the red as you miss work during your recovery, your employer would want you to return when you are physically able to. The compensation will not be a substitute for your total time wages. You may sometimes need to return to work while on compensation. However, suppose your employer refuses to accommodate you at work by reducing your workload as you heal from your injuries. In that case, you can sue for damages with help from Lake County workers’ comp lawyers.

Returning To Work On Workers’ Compensation

No one wants to get just two-thirds of their paycheck forever. While some injuries may prevent you from returning to work, if you aren’t recommended bed rest, your employer may ask you to return in a limited capacity. But it would be best to take precautions so you don’t aggravate your health or condition. The good news is that Illinois workers’ compensation laws provide options for these scenarios so injured workers can return to work without losing their benefits. Here are some ways you can come back to work on a trial basis:

Ask Your Doctor

Ask your doctor to write and sign a release form for your employer that says you can return to work for a trial period (like for a month, for example). Make sure it states clearly that your return is for a brief period to see if you can work during your workers’ comp case. It should also mention that your doctor will re-examine you at the end of the trial period to determine if you are well enough to extend those days while your claim remains open.

Take On Light Duties

If your job may worsen your injuries, ask your employer to assign you lighter duties until you recover fully. Most employers allow this but pay a reduced wage. If that is the case, you may be able to make up the difference with temporary partial disability benefits. This is a wage loss benefit awarded to employees who return to work but earn less than pre-injury wages due to lighter duties. However, this doesn’t mean you should stop getting medical treatments while working. If you do, the insurance company may stop the benefits assuming you are fully healed. Consult your physician and experienced Lake County workers’ comp lawyers before you return to work full-time after recovering from a workplace injury.

Contact The Law Offices Of Robert T. Edens For A Consultation Today!

If your employer is forcing you to return to work while you are recuperating at home or denied workers’ comp, contact The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens to discuss legal options. Our Illinois workers’ comp attorneys in Antioch have been fighting for the rights of Illinois workers for decades and can ensure you get the maximum compensation you deserve. This includes lost wages from wrongful termination as well as additional damages. We can also help you get justice if your boss refuses to reinstate you after you recover from workplace injuries or refuses to reduce your workload, forcing you to leave. No one should work under that much pressure if they are injured! Book a confidential consultation by dialing 847-395-2200.

Ice fishing can turn dangerous in a matter of moments. As per the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, anyone who wants to fish on ice should take all precautions to prevent deadly or fatal accidents. It can save your life.

Top X Ice Fishing Tips That Can Save Your Life

Whether you are going ice fishing at the start or middle of winter, follow these safety tips to prevent a fatal incident:

1. Share Your Plans with Family or Friends

Before heading out, make sure your family or friends know you are going ice fishing and your location. This includes the lake’s name, the fishing spot’s location, and when they can expect you back home. If you don’t return on time, this information can help rescue and emergency services to locate you.

2. Bring a Friend Along

NEVER go alone on an ice fishing trip. A friend or fishing partner can give you support you don’t realize you need. This includes an extra pair of hands in case you reel a large fish that may otherwise pull you under. They can also help you stay focused and alert authorities if you are injured or suffering from hypothermia.

3. Don’t Forget Your Fishing Spikes

Ice fishing spikes are two sharp objects that are connected by rope. If you fall into a hole in the ice or a frozen lake gives way beneath you, these will prevent you from sinking. Use them to punch a hole in the ice if you cannot find the hole you fell into. Follow the instructions in this video if you don’t have these spikes with you and fall in.

4. Examine the Ice Beforehand

A thin layer of ice is the only thing keeping you from the freezing water underneath your boots. So before you walk out onto the frozen water, check the ice’s thickness. There will be thin patches that look solid to the eye, so a cursory glance is not a good idea. Clear blue ice is robust, while white or honeycombed ice is typically fragile. Don’t go ice fishing if it snowed the night before. The snow will place additional pressure on the ice and insulate it, weakening the surface.

5. Dress in Layers

A puffy fishing jacket will not be able to keep the cold at bay, especially if the temperature drops significantly. Dress in multiple warm layers before heading out. This includes thermal underwear and bibs that can trap body heat. Protect your neck, head, and face with a thick scarf and wear boots and gloves designed to ward off the cold. Have you lost a loved one to the cold because of another’s negligence on a fishing trip? An Illinois wrongful death lawyer can help you acquire damages and peace.

Contact The Law Offices Of Robert T. Edens For A Wrongful Death Claim Today!

The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens has represented families in Illinois who have lost loved ones to negligence for decades. We understand the pain you are going through and have the knowledge and resources to help. If you are one of them, contact Illinois wrongful death lawyer Robert Edens for a consultation by dialing 847-395-2200.

Bicycling is a great way to lose weight and remain healthy. But you can get seriously injured in bicycle accidents if you don’t take precautions. As per Illinois law, you may not get the compensation you deserve if you are partially responsible for the incident. Palatine bicycle accident lawyers can advise you further.

Top 4 Ways to Prevent Serious Bicycle Accidents

Here are some ways you can avoid severe accidents on the road on a bike:

1. Conduct Safety Checks

Check your helmet straps, bike chain, and especially tires before heading out on your bike. Under-inflated or misshapen tires can make you flip over if you suddenly go at full speed and brake. Check the sidewall of the tire for the correct pressure. Plus, replace your helmet if it is damaged beyond repair or has frayed straps; the same goes for your bike chain. If you fail to check your brakes, an accident is imminent. Squeeze both bike levers a few times to ensure they work smoothly. If you feel vibrations, the brake pads are rubbing on the tire, not the wheel rim. Replace the brake pads if adjustments don’t fix this issue.

2. Avoid Busy Roads

If possible, avoid arterial roads that get high-speed traffic, especially in commercial areas. These multi-lanes have speed limits that can go up to 45 mph. You are also in danger of being struck if a car turns at high speed or pulls out from a commercial center on the way. Stick to slower lanes if possible and if not, follow all safety precautions.

3. Don’t Assume You Are Visible To Other Drivers

This is the number one cause of bicycle accidents for most people. Never assume that drivers can see you clearly on the road, whether riding in the middle or on the sidelines. So if you are riding and see the car in front of you pull to a side street, make sure the driver sees you so they can stop. Slow down if they don’t. A good rule of thumb is to watch the hubcap of the front wheel – you can see it moving even if you can’t see the car speeding up.

4. Drive Defensively

Remain focused and alert on the road at all times. It will allow you to anticipate what drivers will do beforehand. The faster you notice something is off, the faster your response time will be. Here are some tips that can help:

• Obey all of the street signs and road markings on your route.
• Never drive against the traffic flow.
• Keep your eyes ahead to see hazards such as an open grate, train tracks, pebbles, cracked asphalt, etc.
• Do not listen to music or text while on the road. Your eyes and mind should be on traffic.

Contact The Law Offices Of Robert T. Edens For A Consultation Today!

If you suffered severe injuries because of a bike accident that wasn’t your fault, you deserve fair compensation. But if your insurance company doesn’t share this sentiment, contacting our Antioch bicycle accident lawyers should be prioritized. Contact The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens to discuss your legal rights by dialing 847-395-2200. The insurance company has lawyers who will do everything possible to deny your claim. At this point, you need aggressive representation, so you don’t pay for your medical bills out of pocket. Get the money you deserve with our help.