If a child was harmed because of another person’s intentional or negligent act, they may be facing immense pain and the possibility of permanently debilitating injuries. Fortunately, the party responsible for your child’s injuries could be held liable in court.
If you need assistance determining whether you could pursue a claim on behalf of your child, you could benefit from speaking with a Bloomington child injury lawyer. A compassionate personal injury attorney could help you build a claim for compensation against the negligent party or parties who caused your child’s injuries.
Common Causes of Child Injuries
Child injuries may result from a variety of causes, but often involve the following:
- Auto accidents
- Defective or dangerous products
- Slips, falls, or trips on another person’s property
- School bus wrecks
- Unsafe playground equipment
- Animal bites
- Medical malpractice
- Birth injuries
Some injuries to a child may not be grounds for a civil suit. A knowledgeable Bloomington attorney could determine if a child’s injuries are compensable.
Seeking Recovery for Harm to Child
When a child suffers severe harm, it may require costly and long-term treatment or rehabilitation, and in some cases, lifelong medical and assisted care. Injuries may affect a child’s ability to enjoy life or inhibit their ability to pursue certain interests or careers in adulthood.
A skilled Bloomington attorney could assert a claim for numerous types of damages on behalf of a minor, including:
- Medical costs, including past, current, and future expenses
- Modifications to caregiver’s home or vehicle
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disfigurement or disability.
When a child is injured, they may not pursue a legal remedy on their own. Minors may not file a personal injury lawsuit. Rather, the child’s parents or legal guardians must sue on their behalf. It is critical to retain the services of an attorney in Bloomington who has a comprehensive and extensive understanding of the remedies and special issues involved in pursuing compensation on behalf of a minor.
How Do I Know What my Child’s Injury Case is Worth?
Unfortunately, it is difficult for anyone who does not regularly work on cases involving injuries to children to value their child’s claim. Far too often people accept a low settlement, as the goal of goal of the insurance company is often to pay as little as they possibly can, even in claims involving children. An experienced injury lawyer can review the circumstances of your child’s case, explain what rights to recover for different types of damages your child might have and make a recommendation to you regarding the value of your child’s case. We recommend parents reach out to lawyers experienced in handling claims for children for a free consultation.
Josh and his staff are excellent to work with. Caring and compassionate, they really listen to the clients. They go above and beyond to get the best possible results. I’m very happy I was referred to him! I will definitely contact him for any future legal needs and I highly recommend him.
— Grace D., ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Google Review
What Time Limits Apply to Cases Involving Injuries to Children?
If a child is a minor at the time of their injuries, in most cases the deadline to file suit is two-years from their eighteenth birthday. However, cases involving a local government defendant or medical malpractice cases may have a different statute of limitations. In Illinois medical malpractice cases, suit must be filed within eight years of the act of malpractice and before the child’s 22nd birthday. The best way to determine what deadline applies to your child’s case is a free consultation with an injury lawyer.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Help with an Injury Case for my Child?
If your child sustained significant injuries, it is wise to consult with an experienced injury attorney. Cases involving children require great care in considering the long-term impact of the injury on the child. There are also added complexities, different deadlines, court procedures, rules for paying medical bills and liens, and requirements for handling settlement funds. It is very important for parents to have good advice about the value of their child’s specific case so they can make an informed decision about whether a settlement is in their child’s best interest.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Injury Lawyer for my Child’s Case?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning the lawyer is only paid if they recover money for your child, and is paid a percentage of the amount they recover for your child, typically one-third. This means there is typically no out-of-pocket cost to you, no retainer required, and no hourly fees for the lawyer’s services. Any lawyer you hire will provide a contract or engagement agreement that explains how the lawyer is compensated. Most law firms offer a free consultation to discuss your options.
Reach Out to a Bloomington Child Injuries Attorney Today
If you require legal guidance after your child has suffered serious injuries, a Bloomington child injuries lawyer could help your case. An attorney could be by your side every step of the way throughout the legal process and protect you and your child’s rights. Call today to schedule a consultation.