When a serious injury changes the fabric of a marriage, the consequences extend beyond medical bills and lost wages. Loss of consortium is the legal way Illinois recognizes and compensates a spouse (and in some circumstances other close family members) for the deprivation of the benefits of a marital relationship:…
When someone is injured because of another party’s negligence, in a car crash, slip and fall, dog bite, or other mishap, it’s natural to wonder how difficult it is to actually win a personal injury case in Illinois. The answer is: it depends heavily on the facts, the evidence, and…
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the injuries are often severe. Victims may face months or years of medical treatment, lost wages, and lasting pain. If you or a loved one has been hit by a car in Illinois, you may already know that compensation is available through…
When you’ve been injured in an accident, whether it’s a car accident, slip and fall, or workplace incident, the moments afterward can feel overwhelming. In addition to seeking medical treatment and dealing with insurance companies, you may be wondering what kind of evidence will strengthen your personal injury claim. One…
If you have been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence in Illinois, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. But what exactly can you recover in a legal claim? Understanding the categories of damages available under Illinois law is crucial when evaluating your…
Insurance companies play a critical role in personal injury cases, often determining how much compensation you can recover for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, their primary goal is to protect their own financial interests—not to ensure that you receive a fair settlement. At John J. Malm &…
When pursuing a personal injury claim, one of the most critical decisions you’ll face is whether to settle your case or proceed to trial. While settlements are more common, some cases require litigation to achieve fair compensation. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option can help you make an…
After an accident—whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or another personal injury—the insurance company may contact you with a seemingly routine request: to sign a medical release form. While this might sound harmless or even necessary, many injury victims don’t realize that signing a blanket medical release…
Umbrella coverage, also known as an umbrella insurance policy, provides additional liability protection beyond the limits of standard homeowner’s, auto, or other personal insurance policies. In Illinois, homeowners can purchase umbrella coverage to protect against significant claims and lawsuits that exceed the limits of their primary insurance policies. This is…
Filing a personal injury lawsuit can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re recovering from an accident and trying to navigate an unfamiliar legal system. Knowing what to expect and understanding the typical timeline of a personal injury case can provide clarity and peace of mind. At John J. Malm & Associates,…