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Personal Injury Lawyers Here For YOU!

Personal Injury Attorneys Dedicated to Helping Injury Victims Throughout Illinois, Iowa, Florida, Washington D.C., and Nationwide

We are Honored to Help

Personal injuries can have a devastating impact on your life and that of your family. The physical and financial hardships caused by personal injuries can range from “inconvenience” to “life altering”. You don’t need to go through this struggle alone. The personal injury lawyers at VanDerGinst Law can ease your burden. We focus on your personal injury claim so you can focus on getting better. We are here to serve YOU.

IT’S ALL
ABOUT YOU

When you have been injured on the job or due to someone’s negligence or wrongdoing you can face a lot of hurdles. You need answers. You need help. You need it right away and you need your life to be disrupted as little as possible.  VanDerGinst Law would be HONORED to help.

Personal injuries can obviously cause physical pain and disability.  But they can also cause emotional trauma and drain you of the energy you need to function in your day-to-day life. You need peace of mind knowing that your medical bills will be paid, and that your family will be supported if you have lost wages due to missing work.

VanDerGinst Law is one of the most successful law firms in the country when it comes to getting compensation for personal injury victims.  Just as important, we do all the little things necessary to make your life easier during a difficult time.

If you or a loved one has suffered from a personal injury, you probably have numerous questions about what to do and what to expect.  Many of your questions can be answered in the FAQ section or somewhere else on our website. 

For direct support and answers from our experienced team, the quickest and easiest way is to call 800-797-5391. Our personal injury professionals are ready to assist you for FREE, ensuring you receive the prompt and effective help you need.

FREQUENTLY ASKED PERSONAL INJURY LAW QUESTIONS

1. What Should I Do and Not Do If I Have Been Injured?

If you are able, without jeopardizing your health or safety, you should collect witness information and photos and/or video of the accident site. Of course, if necessary, contact the police or other emergency personnel. Get the proper medical attention necessary to address any acute injury as soon as possible.  Do NOT sign anything for the other party’s insurance representatives.  Do NOT give the other party’s insurance representatives a recorded statement.

2. Do You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer?

Of course, you would expect a personal injury law firm to say “yes” to that question.  Indeed, that is our short answer.  But there are a lot of reasons that it makes sense for you to be represented by a personal injury lawyer when you have a claim.

First and possibly foremost, the right lawyer can make a huge difference on the amount of compensation you will recover from your claim.  Insurance carriers and other big business defendants have lawyers looking out for their interests.  They do not willingly give you what you are entitled to.  In fact, it is the job of insurance adjusters to get claimants to settle for as little as possible.  Only the leverage that can be exerted by an experienced personal injury attorney who is willing to file a lawsuit on behalf of clients, can get you the type of compensation to which you are entitled.  VanDerGinst Law has that experience.

Second, why would you even want to tackle the mess associated with filling out mountains of forms and dealing with insurance people and medical providers?  You need rest and recuperation from your injuries, not additional stress. VanDerGinst Law will take the worry away.  We make opening a file as easy and convenient as possible.  We collect the documentation necessary to pursue your case. We conduct the investigation. We deal with the insurance people and medical providers, and coordinate benefits.  We negotiate and get you the best resolution possible.

Third, there is no financial risk to having VanDerGinst Law on your side. If we do not win your injury case and get you compensation, you will not owe us anything!

3. When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer?

If you were injured in an accident and required any type of treatment or attention to those injuries, your accident probably warrants the attention of a personal injury attorney as well.  With respect to the question of how soon you should speak to a lawyer, we suggest that you contact VanDerGinst Law as soon as possible after getting the initial medical attention necessary to address your injuries. 

  • Do not wait until you are done treating.
  • Do not wait until you have spoken to insurance representatives or adjusters.
  • Do not wait until you get tired of negotiating on your own.

Adjusters set tentative values on injury claims at a very early stage.  Having an experienced injury attorney on your side can ensure that those values are adjusted much higher than they would be with no attorney.  Witness statements and evidence often needs to be secured at an early stage. A good lawyer will also advise you against signing medical authorization or giving recorded statements.  There are just too many things that can go wrong if you do not get a personal injury lawyer onboard as soon as practicable after your injury.

4. Do I Need to File a Lawsuit to get Compensation for My Personal Injury?

Most personal injury claims can be resolved without having to even file a lawsuit.  That only happens if your personal injury lawyer has shown that he or she is willing to file lawsuits and fight for justice whenever it is necessary to get the best results for clients.  At VanDerGinst Law we have a long history of proving our dedication to our clients.  Insurance companies know that.  They know we will file lawsuits, if necessary, to get the best results.

5. Will my personal injury case go to trial?

Even if your personal injury case must have a lawsuit filed, that does not mean it will proceed all the way to a trial.  Probably 95% of all injury cases are settled before going to trial. During trial preparations each side becomes more familiar with their respective strengths and weaknesses.  That often results in a settlement.  At VanDerGinst Law we prepare all cases as if they will go to trial.  That way we can be in the best position possible to get the best settlements for our clients.

6. How are Personal Injury Damages Determined? What is my case worth?

If a personal injury attorney tells you what your case is worth after a brief conversation about your injuries, they are either misleading or misinformed.  There are many factors which impact a personal injury case value. Such factors include your age, the type of accident, where you live, the nature, extent and duration of your injuries and treatment needs, the impact of your injuries on your ability to work and earn income, scarring and disfigurement, the impact on family, the nature of the defendant and their insurance and/or assets, and other considerations too numerous to mention.

If successful in showing liability in a personal injury case the damages may include any of the following which may apply:

  • Past and future medical bills
  • Past and future lost income
  • Past and future physical and mental pain and suffering
  • Past and future loss of function of mind and body
  • Past and future loss of enjoyment of life
  • Scarring or disfigurement
  • Loss of consortium
  • Out of pocket expenses
7. What is Pain and Suffering?

Pain and suffering include harm caused by physical injury and mental anguish experienced due to ancillary issues related to the accident and injuries.

8. How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

At VanDerGinst Law we handle personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis.  That means that if we fail in getting you money for your injuries, there is NO ATTORNEY FEE.  You will never be out of pocket a penny.  We do not get paid unless and until you do.

Our fee is a percentage of the amount recovered. The percentage depends on the type of case we handle and whether the case must be litigated.  But it is never more than 40% of the recovery and is usually between 20% and one third.

Additionally, even though other personal injury attorneys say they charge a contingent fee, they may also require a retainer fee for costs (for filing fees, expert fees, court reporter fees, postage, records, etc.)  That can often be hundreds, even thousands of dollars.

At VanDerGinst Law we charge NO RETAINER FEE on injury cases.  We forward all costs necessary to pursue your claim.

9. What are the time limits that apply for Personal Injury Claims?

The statute of limitations is the law that limits the time in which a person must file a lawsuit.  In Illinois and Iowa that time is generally two years from the date of the injury.  There are very limited exceptions which may expand that time.  There are also some situations which require notices be sent or lawsuits filed earlier than that two-year period.  If you fail to file a lawsuit within the applicable time, you are forever barred from doing so.  Therefore, it is always a good idea to get VanDerGinst Law in your corner as soon as possible.

10. If I was partially at fault can I still be compensated for injuries I sustained in an accident?

Illinois recognizes something known as “Modified Comparative Fault”. Under the Modified Comparative Fault System, each party is held responsible for damages in proportion to their own percentage of fault pro-rata, unless the plaintiff's negligence reaches 51%.

So, if you are partly at fault your compensation will be reduced be the proportionate percentage of fault.  However, if you are 51% or more to blame, then you are entitled to no compensation. Therefore, if a reasonable award were determined to be $100,000 but you were 40% at fault, your award would be reduced by 40% so that you would receive $60,000.

11. Will medical bills I incurred due to my injury accident be paid by the responsible party?

The responsible party is obligated to pay the costs for all bills for reasonable and necessary treatment.  That can include medical bills, chiropractic bills, dental bills, physical therapy bills and any other similar costs. 

12. What happens if the responsible party did not have any insurance coverage?

Sometimes the party responsible for causing an injury accident does not have insurance to pay for the damages or does not have enough insurance. When that happens, VanDerGinst Law leaves no stone unturned to see if a compensation source can be identified. Sometimes we can find employers and other sources who may be vicariously liable. Sometimes we can turn to our client’s own uninsured or underinsured insurance coverage. Sometimes we determine the responsible party has ample assets available outside of insurance.

Top Four Things That Should Matter Most When Selecting A Personal Injury Lawyer

  1. Affordability
  2. Convenience
  3. Maximum Compensation
  4. Communication and Trust.

1. Affordability

If Our Personal Injury Attorneys Don’t Get You Compensation for Your Injury Claim, You Won’t Owe Us a Dime!

At VanDerGinst Law we handle personal injury cases on a contingent fee basis.  That means that if we fail to get you money for your injuries, there is NO ATTORNEY FEE.  You will NEVER be out of pocket a penny.  We do not get paid unless and until you do.  Our fee is a percentage of the amount recovered. The percentage depends on the type of case we handle and whether the case must be litigated.  But it is never more than 40% of the recovery and is usually between 20% and one third.

Additionally, even though other personal injury lawyers say they charge a contingent fee, often they may require a retainer fee for costs (for filing fees, expert fees, court reporter fees, postage, records, etc.)  That can often amount to hundreds, even thousands of dollars.  At VanDerGinst Law we charge NO RETAINER FEE on injury cases.  We forward all costs necessary to pursue your claim.

 

2. Convenience

The VanDerGinst Law Personal Injury Attorneys Make the Process as Easy and Convenient as Possible. We Handle the Stress and Mess So You Can Focus on Getting Better!

We understand the impact of serious injuries: dealing with pain, accumulating medical expenses, and possibly being unable to work. Navigating the personal injury claims process can be overwhelming and fraught with complications, adding to the stress of your situation.

VanDerGinst Law can alleviate this burden, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We streamline starting your personal injury case, offering both, in-person meetings at our accessible offices, and remote options like phone intake, online file openings, and video conferencing for your convenience.

Our services are available round-the-clock, every day. You can easily start your case by clicking here or calling us at 800-797-5391.

We prioritize simplifying your experience, ensuring your file is opened swiftly and smoothly. We then proceed to diligently work on your case, aiming for the highest possible compensation. Unlike other firms that might require you to gather medical and other documents, our expert Personal Injury Attorneys and dedicated staff take charge of all necessary documentation. We compile your medical records, coordinate with insurance and benefits providers, and handle negotiations with insurance adjusters and opposing parties’ representatives. Our goal is to secure the best possible settlement for you. However, if a fair settlement is not offered, our battle-tested personal injury lawyers are ready to fight for your rights in court to secure the outcome you deserve.

Choose VanDerGinst Law: Your ally in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims, dedicated to securing the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.

 

3. Maximum Compensation

The Personal Injury Lawyers at VanDerGinst Law Have the Experience and Passion to FIGHT to Get You the Maximum Amount of Money for Your Injury Claim

At VanDerGinst Law, our Personal Injury Lawyers are committed to securing you the highest compensation for your injury claim. Of course, anyone can make that kind of statement. But can they PROVE it? We can!

Our record-breaking recoveries across various types of injury cases have earned us nationwide recognition for excellence in personal injury law. Every year, we successfully recover millions of dollars for our clients, fighting tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Over 50,000 injury victims have relied on VanDerGinst Law to help them when they needed it most.

Click Here to View Accolades We Have Earned from Peers and Colleagues

Click Here to View Comments and Testimonials Former Clients Have Made

We are not just experts in injury law; we also have significant experience and relationships that allow us to maximize our effectiveness.  They say a good lawyer knows the law, but a great lawyer knows the judge! At VanDerGinst Law we know injury law. But we also know the judges, lawyers, medical providers, and insurance adjusters who are involved in injury claims and lawsuits!

Our national reach and local connections equip our personal injury attorneys with the resources to maximize your compensation.

Unlike law firms that represent both sides, we solely represent injury victims. Attorneys who sometimes represent victims and other times represent the interests of insurance companies, are essentially serving two different masters who have different goals and agendas.  We ONLY represent injured victims, so we NEVER have a conflict of interest.

While we NEVER represent insurance companies, our team includes former insurance adjusters and defense lawyers, bringing insider knowledge of the insurance industry to advocate effectively on your behalf.

For those suffering from severe injuries, it is crucial to choose a law firm dedicated to personal injury, rather than a generalist who handles such cases sporadically. Just as medical specialties exist for a reason, so do legal ones. At VanDerGinst Law, injury law is our sole focus, ensuring you receive specialized and experienced representation.

Entrust your case to experienced personal injury lawyers at VanDerGinst Law, where we are equipped to expertly manage any injury case brought to our doors.

 

4. Communication And Trust

The Personal Injury Lawyers of VanDerGinst Law Will Keep You Informed Every Step of the Way

At VanDerGinst Law, our Personal Injury Lawyers are committed not just to fighting for your rights but also to keeping you informed at every stage of your case. It’s one thing to promise communication and transparency; it’s another to live up to it. We stand out in this regard, as evidenced by our receipt of the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics, a distinction few law firms can claim.

Our dedication to client satisfaction is further highlighted by other awards, including the Client’s Choice Award from Avvo and the Client Champion Award from Martindale-Hubbell, two prominent attorney rating services. These accolades are a testament to our commitment to excellence and ethical practice in personal injury law. In addition, we have received hundreds of five-star Google reviews.

We believe the trust shown to us by our community is earned as much by our work in the courtroom as it is outside the courtroom. Our track record of charitable and community efforts demonstrates our commitment to improving lives every day.

Click Here to View Comments and Testimonials Former Clients Have Made

Click Here to View Our Community and Charitable Efforts

With over thirty years of experience and more than 50,000 clients represented, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an injury can take. Let us alleviate your stress by managing your case and fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Don’t wait to start your journey to recovery and justice. Contact us now for a FREE, no-obligation consultation. Click here or call 800-797-5391 to connect with a team that genuinely cares and is dedicated to your well-being.

 

Injury Claims We Handle

Personal Injury
Wrongful Death Claims
Animal Attacks/Dog Bites
Car Accidents
Commercial Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Slip/Trip and Fall Accidents
Premises Liability Accidents
Construction Accidents
Worker’s Compensation Claims
Product Liability/Dangerous Products
Nursing Home Negligence/Abuse
Medical Malpractice
Class Actions/Mass Tort Claims
Other Injury Claims

Types Of Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries
Spinal Cord Injuries
Swimming Pool Injuries
Fractures
Soft Tissue Injuries/Whiplash
Chest Injuries
Shoulder Injuries
Knee Injuries
Hip and Pelvis Injuries
Burn Injuries
Amputation
Crush Injuries
Degloving Injuries

Illinos Markets

Chicago
Moline
Rock Island
East Moline
Illinois Quad Cities
Champaign
Rockford
Peoria
DeKalb
Aurora
Schaumburg
Springfield
Wheaton
Joliet
Alton
Cook County
Madison County
Bloomington
Normal
Waukeegan
Geneva
Kankakee
Galesburg
Monmouth
Macomb
Quincy
Rock Island County
Whiteside County
Henry County
Mercer County

Iowa Markets

Des Moines
Davenport
Bettendorf
Iowa Quad Cities
Cedar Rapids
Iowa City
Urbandale
Burlington
Dubuque
Clinton
Muscatine
West Des Moines
Ames
Sioux City
Council Bluffs
Scott County
Polk County
Warren County
Linn County
Johnson County

Results

Some of Our Recent Results

At VanDerGinst Law, each client provides us with an opportunity to help someone in a stressful situation. Every case is different, and we cannot promise the same results for every case. But we can promise to use every effort to get the best results possible for your injury case.

Real People, Real Stories.

Over the years, we have had the privilege of serving many people who were injured at the hands of others and needed a personal injury lawyer to handle their case. Our clients are at the heart of our practice, and their situations inspire us to be the best that we can be.

Illinois Personal Injury Lawyer

Community Spotlight

We focus on helping people both in and out of the courtroom. Community involvement is a passion of the VanDerGinst Law team.
Whether through our time or charitable donations, we’re happy to help.

Check Out Our Podcasts

VanDerGinst Law now sponsors two fantastic podcasts. Learn about “Legal Squeaks” and “Uncommon Convos” below.

Legal Squeaks

Concise bits of legal and consumer info.

 

Uncommon Convos

Entertaining and interesting conversations with entertaining and interesting people

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