Blog | Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd

Who is Liable if Someone Runs a Red Light and You Hit Them?

November 27, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – When someone runs a red light, they normally will be cited for causing the accident. If property damage occurs, the insurance company for the other driver is likely to accept responsibility and pay the claim. However, it’s important to know that if you are claiming bodily injuries as a result of the auto collision, you can bet the insurance company will try to reduce their liability by blaming you too.

How an Insurance Company Blames the Person with the Green Light

Under Illinois law, all drivers have the responsibility to keep a proper lookout while driving. This means that when you arrive at an intersection you are expected to look left and right before proceeding. If you see a car approaching too quickly, you should stop to prevent an intersection collision. If you don’t see the car in time, the insurance company will blame you for not keeping a proper lookout.

How They Get Away with It

Under Illinois law, all parties’ actions are judged under a comparative negligence standard. This means that the jury doesn’t simply decide that party “A” is at fault or party “B” is at fault. The jury considers both parties’ conduct and divides responsibility for the accident between the parties. If your percentage of responsibility is less than 50%, you collect that percentage of damages. If your percentage of responsibility is more than 50%, you get nothing.

How Insurance Companies Trick You

Insurance adjusters are highly trained at tricking victims to save their own company money. They will call you following the car accident and act like they are there to help you. They get you to allow a recorded statement and lead you into agreeing you didn’t take the time to look before driving after the green light.

Suddenly, a simple situation where the other driver was clearly at fault for running a red light becomes unclear and defensible by the insurance company because you didn’t seek legal advice before speaking to a trained insurance adjuster. It’s important to never speak to an insurance company without consulting a car accident attorney before. Contact the car crash lawyers at the Dinizulu Law Group so we can speak on your behalf to yield a positive outcome.

Don’t Be a Victim Twice

If you have been in a car crash, don’t get victimized twice. Speak to a Chicago, Illinois car accident lawyer before you speak to an adjuster. Consult with the Dinizulu Law Group to promptly be advised on your legal rights. In Illinois, you have a two-year statute of limitation period in which you must file a lawsuit or be forever barred from bringing such a claim; therefore, our Illinois car accident lawyers should be consulted as soon as possible.

Common Thanksgiving Accidents and How to Avoid Them

November 13, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family and friends, all while enjoying great food; however, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards of the holiday. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest days of the year in the kitchen, and with so much cooking going on, accidents can happen.

Cooking Accidents

Cooking accidents can happen on Thanksgiving, especially if you’re not used to cooking large meals. Common cooking accidents include cuts, burns and scalds.

To avoid cooking accidents, be careful when handling knives and other kitchen tools. You should always wear oven mitts when handling hot pots and pans, be careful when lifting them and always use caution when opening the oven door since the steam can be very hot.

Kitchen Fires

Another common hazard during Thanksgiving is kitchen fires which can be caused by grease fires, unattended cooking or electrical malfunctions. Kitchen fires can spread quickly and cause serious damage to your home and belongings, and unfortunately lead to injuries and even death.

To prevent kitchen fires, it’s important to be vigilant when cooking and to take the following precautions:

Keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case of a grease fire.
Never leave cooking food unattended.
Have your electrical system inspected regularly to prevent electrical fires.
Keep flammable materials away from the stovetop and oven.

Food Poisoning

Food poisoning is one of the most common Thanksgiving accidents. It can be caused by eating contaminated food, such as raw or undercooked turkey. Symptoms of food poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. In severe cases, food poisoning can lead to dehydration and hospitalization.

To avoid food poisoning, it’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines when preparing and cooking for Thanksgiving, including:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
Clean and sanitize all cutting boards and countertops.
Cook your turkey to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for 24 hours per 4-5 pounds of turkey.

Slip-and-Fall

Slippery surfaces and wet floors can lead to slip-and-fall accidents on Thanksgiving, especially if you have a lot of people in your home and are carrying around food and drinks.

To prevent slip-and-falls, keep your floors clean and dry by using non-slip rugs in areas where spills are likely to occur. Ensure you’re careful when walking around the kitchen, especially when carrying something heavy.

Other Thanksgiving Hazards

In addition to the common Thanksgiving accidents listed above, there are a few other hazards that you should be aware of, such as:

Children: While Thanksgiving is a busy time for adults, it’s important to supervise children closely to prevent accidents from occurring. Keep children away from ovens and hot stoves, and ensure they don’t play with knives or other sharp objects.
Hot liquids: Be careful when handling hot liquids, including coffee, tea and gravy. These liquids can cause serious burns.
Deep fryers: Deep fryers can be dangerous if not used properly, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with your deep fryer accordingly.

Some other additional tips that will help you avoid Thanksgiving include:

Planning your meal ahead of time: This will help you to stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed on Thanksgiving Day.
Delegate tasks: If you have a lot of people helping you cook, delegate tasks so that everyone has something to do. This will help prevent everyone from getting in each other’s way and making mistakes that can lead to accidents.
Take breaks: It’s crucial to take breaks when cooking a large meal to help you stay focused and avoid mistakes. If you need help with something, don’t be afraid to ask for it. There are plenty of people who are willing to help out on a busy day like Thanksgiving.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your Thanksgiving is a safe and enjoyable one for everyone.

Choose the Right Personal Injury Lawyer to Represent You in Illinois

If you or a loved one encounters a personal injury during fall festivities due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert guidance and support. The Dinizulu Law Group has built a reputation as a firm that can successfully litigate and advocate on your behalf. Contact us to help you get the relief you deserve! Your safety and well-being are our top priority.

Call us today for a free consultation at (312) 384-1920.

The 3 Most Common Types of Product Liability

November 9, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Product liability claims are an essential part of consumer protection, ensuring that individuals have recourse and compensation when they sustain injuries or suffer damages due to defective products. Understanding the various types of product liability claims is critical for both consumers and manufacturers.

Breach of Warranty Claims

Expressed warranties are those which are explicitly stated and defined by the manufacturer or seller, often found in written contracts or promotional materials, while implied warranties are unspoken assurances that the product is fit for its intended purpose. For example, a consumer may purchase a new laptop with an expressed warranty guaranteeing its performance for one year, only to have the device malfunction after six months.

Breach of warranty claims serves as a prominent type of product liability claim which focuses on the failure of a product to meet the promises made by the manufacturer or seller. A breach of warranty occurs when a product doesn’t perform as expected or fails to meet the standards outlined in either an expressed or implied warranty.

To successfully pursue a breach of warranty claim entails meeting certain burdens of proof and legal requirements. The burden of proof lies with the injured party, who must demonstrate that a warranty existed, that the product didn’t meet said warranty and that they suffered damages as a direct result. Additionally, the injured party must generally prove they have used the product as intended and didn’t contribute to the defect through misuse or negligence.

Negligence Claims

Negligence claims form another significant category within product liability which focuses on the failure of a company to exercise reasonable care in the design, marketing or manufacturing of a product. A negligence claim arises when a company’s actions or lack thereof result in harm to a consumer. You must show the negligence claim is the concept of duty of care which holds companies responsible for ensuring their products are reasonably safe for the intended use.

Manufacturers must exercise caution and take appropriate measures to identify potential hazards during the product’s design and production phases. Companies also have the duty to provide clear instructions and adequate warnings regarding any potential risks associated with the use of their products.

To successfully pursue a negligence claim, several elements must be established, including:

The injured party must demonstrate that the company owes a duty of care to the consumer.
You must show that the company breached that duty by failing to meet the expected standard of care which can involve negligence in design defects, manufacturing or inadequate warnings.
You must prove that the breach directly caused the injury or damage suffered by the consumer.
The injured party must illustrate the extent of the damages caused.

Strict Liability Claims

Strict liability claims represent a unique category within product liability, where the focus shifts from proving negligence or breach of warranty to establishing the inherent danger or defect in a product. Under strict liability, a manufacturer or seller can be held responsible for injuries caused by a defective product regardless of their level of care or intent.

There is no requirement for the injured party to prove negligence or breach of warranty in a strict liability claim. Instead, a skilled product liability attorney must demonstrate that the product was unreasonably dangerous or defective and that the defect directly caused an injury or damage. This relieves the burden on the consumer, making it easier to pursue a claim against the responsible party.

Wholesales, retailers, manufacturers and other parties in the distribution chain may be held accountable in strict liability claims. Each party involved in bringing the defective product to the market can be held potentially liable for the harm caused.

For instance, strict liability claims can arise from cases including malfunctioning medical devices that cause harm to a patient. In this instance, the manufacturer may be held strictly liable for the injury that was caused.

The outcomes of strict liability claims vary based on the circumstances and evidence presented. In some cases, the injured party may be awarded compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In other cases, the verdict may result in a product recall, forcing companies to take corrective actions to prevent further harm.

Contacting a Product Liability Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of a defective product, call the lawyers at the Dinizulu Law Group, Ltd. to advocate on your behalf. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if we agree to handle your case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary recovery of funds. In many cases, a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date, known as a statute of limitations so please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.

Common Types of Car Accidents Among Young Drivers

November 9, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – More U.S. teens die in car accidents than from any other cause, and many of these deaths are preventable. Furthermore, teens typically have higher accident rates than any other age group. According to the latest data available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the number of teen motor vehicle occupant deaths increased for the second consecutive year. Occupant fatalities in 2021 totaled 2,723, up more than 11% from 2020.

Every parent’s goal is to keep their child safe. Read this week’s blog to learn the common causes of teen motor vehicle accidents and ways you can prepare your child for driving on the road.

Who is Most at Risk?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among teens ages 16-19 than among any other age group. Teen drivers in this age group have a fatal crash rate almost three times as high as drivers ages 20 and older per mile driven.

Teens who are especially high risk for motor vehicle crashes include:

Male drivers ages 16-19 years old are three times as high as the death rate for female drivers in the same age group as of 2020.
Teen driving with teen or young adult passengers increases the crash risk of unsupervised teen drivers. This risk increases with each additional teen or young adult passenger.
Newly licensed teens particularly during the first months of licensure. Data indicates that the crash rate per mile driven is about 1.5 times as high for 16-year-old drivers as it is for 18 to 19-year-old drivers.

Common Accident Causes

The CDC and other insurance and road safety organizations have identified various factors that contribute to the high rate of teen driving accidents, including:

Lack of experience necessary to navigate the roads safely, especially at night and on the weekends.
Difficulty navigating hazardous areas and situations.
Higher distraction rates, such as being on their cell phone or texting while they drive.
Passengers who can be a distraction.
Reckless driving like speeding and driving too close to other vehicles.
Avoiding using their seatbelt.
Less concern with driving or riding in vehicles with drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Preparation Strategies

Your best strategies for preparing your teen are education and practice. It’s important to educate your children on the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt, driving under the influence and distracted driving. You should also discuss dangerous roadways and hazards to watch for.

To increase your child’s safety, choose a vehicle that has a high safety rating and spend time practicing with your teen at all hours and in all weather conditions to get them more familiar. Make sure their vehicle has safety devices, including a tool to escape entrapment.

Click here to find more information on how to keep teens safe on the road.

How the Dinizulu Law Group Can Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident in Chicago, Illinois

If you have suffered bodily injury, property damage, or lost a loved one in a car accident near Chicago, Illinois, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. You may only have a limited amount of time to pursue a lawsuit for your motor vehicle accident under Illinois’ statute of limitations laws. Call the Dinizulu Law Group today for guidance on your rights, insurance filing requirements and legal options toward damage compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (312) 384-1920.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Illinois?

November 9, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – The statute of limitations on a personal injury claim in Illinois is 2 years which means you have from the time of the incident to file a lawsuit against the negligent party. In a civil lawsuit, victims who have suffered personal injury can sue for damages including medical bills, ongoing care, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

However, there are other factors that may impact how long you have to file a lawsuit. If an accident is fatal, family members of the victim also have 2 years from the date of the crash to file a wrongful death claim. If an injured party succumbs to their injuries sometime after the accident, the family has 2 years from the date of death rather than from the date of the crash.

A medical malpractice lawsuit against a doctor is similar to a wrongful death claim in the sense that the 2-year statute of limitations begins when the injury is discovered. Once the patient discovers a problem, the suit must be filed no more than 4 years from the time of treatment. For victims under the age of 18, they have 8 years from the medical error with no claim being filed beyond the person’s 22nd birthday.

Starting at a “discovery date” rather than the incident date also applies to accident injuries that don’t show up immediately, which is called delayed onset of injuries.

Things That May Buy Your Case More Time

There are a few instances that may postpone or pause the time a victim has to file a lawsuit in Illinois, despite the statute of limitations. The following will adjust the 2-year personal injury statute of limitations:

If the victim is under 18 years old in which the 2-year clock will begin on their 18th birthday.
If the victim has a legal disability deeming them mentally incompetent in which the clock starts when it’s determined that the condition has been resolved.
If the victim becomes legally disabled within the statute time period, the clock will be paused until they are deemed mentally fit.
If the defendant leaves the state of Illinois during the statute of limitations time period, the clock will pause and resume again upon their return.

These circumstances may buy time for a victim to file a personal injury lawsuit, but they should not be relied upon. For instance, a judge might deny a request to delay the statute of limitations if there isn’t sufficient proof of a disability or that the defendant left the state. It’s important to move quickly to file the appropriate documents to begin a lawsuit. Personal injury attorneys like the Dinizulu Law Group are here to help review your case and ensure that all deadlines are met.

Special Circumstances for Personal Injury Lawsuits

The statute of limitation rules apply to all instances of personal injury unless they happen on government-owned or public land. For example, if someone gets hurt on city or county property in Illinois, a formal claim must be made in accordance with the Illinois Court of Claims Act with the State Attorney General within one year of the incident. If the matter is not resolved and the victim wishes to file suit, they have 2 years from the incident to file a lawsuit.

Why is Filing on Time so Important?

Missing the deadline set by the statute on personal injury in Illinois means you can miss the chance to collect fair compensation. There is nothing preventing a victim from filing the necessary paperwork with the court; however, the defendant’s attorney needs to file a motion to dismiss the case. Unless there is a valid reason, the judge will grant the motion.

Statutes of limitation are put in place to ensure the legal system proceeds efficiently. They also prevent people from holding an accident over someone’s head by threatening a lawsuit indefinitely. Even if the victim has injuries or the defendant is guilty, the rules are strict for not filing on time.

If you have suffered a personal injury in Illinois through no fault of your own, you deserve compensation from the at-fault party.

Contacting the Personal Injury Attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group Located in Chicago, Illinois

If you have suffered personal injury in Illinois, it’s important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. You may have a limited amount of time to pursue a lawsuit for your car accident, truck accident, motorcycle crash, work injury, or slip and fall injury under Illinois’ statute of limitations laws.

Contact the Dinizulu Law Group today for guidance on your rights, insurance filing requirements and legal options toward damage compensation. Call us today for a free consultation by calling (312) 384-1920.

What You Need to Know About Trucking Accidents and Litigation Process

November 3, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Truck accidents can be life-altering and result in severe injuries, property damage and even fatalities. Due to commercial trucks massive size and weight, trucks pose a high risk to other drivers on the road.

The legal aspect surrounding truck crashes can be complex and require specialized knowledge and a skilled truck accident lawyer.

Truck accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, such as driver negligence, mechanical failures, improper cargo loading or weather conditions. Understanding the causes and dynamics of truck accidents is crucial for building a strong legal case. Some common factors contributing to truck accidents may include:

Driver fatigue from long hours of driving and tight deadlines which impair their ability to react quickly to potential hazards on the road.
Improper cargo loading leads to unstable or loss of control.
Negligent driving behavior, including speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or aggressive maneuvering can all contribute to truck accidents.
Mechanical failures, such as tire blowouts, brake failures, inadequate maintenance or faulty steering mechanisms can result in serious or fatal accidents.

Truck Accident Litigation Process

Truck accident litigation involves legal proceedings to determine liability, seek compensation for damages and provide justice to the victims. Some key points to consider include:

Establishing Liability

Determining liability in a truck accident is a complex process due to the involvement of multiple parties. While the truck driver is a common party held responsible, other entities may also share liability which includes the trucking company that can be held accountable for negligence in hiring, training or supervising the driver.

Other entities that can be held liable include the vehicle manufacturer if the mechanical defect contributed to the accident.

Gathering Evidence

Building a strong case relies heavily on the collection of compelling evidence. A skilled attorney will investigate the valuable information to help build your case including braking, the truck’s speed at the time of the accident and other parameters prior to the accident.

Your attorney will also request eyewitness testimonies to help establish the sequence of events and provide additional insights like photographs, measurements and reconstructions will provide a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the truck crash. Your attorney will also want information regarding maintenance records, driver logbooks and other relevant documentation to establish liability or negligence.

Discussing Insurance Coverage

Trucking companies are typically required to carry substantial insurance coverage due to the significant damages truck crashes can cause. You need to hire a skilled truck accident attorney who understands insurance policies to ensure that resources are utilized to compensate victims adequately. Additionally, negotiating with insurance companies can be challenging because they will try to minimize the claim or shift the blame onto other parties.

Understanding the statute of limitations

Every jurisdiction has a statute of limitations, which sets a time limit within which a legal claim must be filed. It is important to be aware of and adhere to this deadline. In Illinois, the statute of limitations for truck accidents is two years and begins at the point when the cause of the injury was discovered. In some cases, the statute of limitations may be paused for a period, if the plaintiff was a minor, or mentally incompetent at the time of the accident.

Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in the loss of the right to seek compensation; therefore, it’s critical to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a truck accident to ensure they take legal action within the necessary timeframe.

Seeking Expert Assistance

Truck accidents can involve complex legal, technical and procedural intricacies. Hiring an experienced truck accident attorney who has in-depth knowledge of regulations, and precedents and has the resources to experts and medical professionals who can testify and provide expert opinions will benefit your claim.

Compensation and Damages

If you or your loved one are a victim of a truck crash, you may be entitled to various types of compensation and damages, such as:

Medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Lost wages and future earnings
Property damage
Punitive damages

Talk to the Truck Crash Experts at the Dinizulu Law Group

If you or your loved one was injured as a result of an Illinois truck accident, our team of trusted truck accident lawyers is here to help you. Our firm goes above and beyond to handle your concerns and fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.

Make Sure to Ask These Questions to Ask a Personal Injury Attorney in Illinois Before Hiring Them

November 3, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Suffering a personal injury can be a life-altering event that can impact your emotional state, physical well-being and financial stability. If you find yourself in such a situation, hiring a personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. This week’s blog will explore the key questions you should pose before hiring a personal injury attorney.

How much experience do you have in personal injury law?

Experience matters when it comes to personal injury cases. You should ask the lawyer’s background focusing specifically on their experience with cases that are similar to yours. Ask questions about the settlements they’ve achieved and their familiarity with the legal processes involved. A skilled personal injury lawyer will have the expertise, knowledge and resources to navigate your case effectively.

Do you have trial experience with personal injury cases similar to mine?

While most cases are settled out of court, it’s important for your attorney to be prepared for the possibility of going to trial. Ask about their trial experience in handling personal injury cases similar to yours so they can provide you with confidence and assurance that they’re able to effectively represent your case in court, if necessary.

How do you charge for your services?

Understanding the attorney’s fee structure is important for avoiding any surprises later on. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only receive a payment if they win your case; however, it’s important to clarify the percentage they will take from your settlement or award, as well as any additional costs or expenses that will be deducted during the legal process.

What is your approach to settlement negotiations and trial?

Most personal injury cases are settled outside of our and will require litigation. You should ask your attorney what their approach to settlement negotiations is and their experience in the courtroom. You want to hire an attorney who is skilled in both negotiation and litigation and who can adapt to the unique circumstances of your case to get you the best possible outcome.

Will you be the primary lawyer handling my case?

Some law firms may assign your case to a paralegal or junior associate. These professionals are capable; however, it’s important to ensure the lawyer you hire will be directly involved in your case and provide guidance. Establishing a clear line of communication and trust with your attorney is crucial for a successful attorney-client relationship.

How will you communicate with me throughout the litigation process?

When working with a personal injury lawyer, open and regular communication regarding your case is vital. Ask about how the attorney plans to keep you informed about the progress of your case, when they are available for phone calls or meetings and if they will provide updates via email or another communication platform. Understanding how your lawyer will communicate will help you feel more confident and involved in your case.

How do you assess the value of my claim?

Evaluating various factors will determine the value of your personal injury claim, including pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost wages and long-term damages. Ask the attorney about their approach of assessing your claim and their experience in negotiating for fair compensation.

How long do you anticipate my case will take?

It may be challenging to provide an exact timeframe, but an experienced personal injury lawyer should be able to provide an estimated timeline based on their knowledge of similar cases.

Can you provide testimonials or references from past clients?

Requesting testimonials or references from previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s quality of service and track record. Hearing first-hand previous clients’ experiences can help you gauge their level of satisfaction and the attorney’s ability to handle personal injury cases effectively.

Contacting a personal injury lawyer in Chicago, Illinois

Hiring the right personal injury lawyer in Illinois is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. By asking these essential questions, you can gain a better understanding of the lawyer’s experience, approach, and communication style.

Our trusted team of personal injury lawyers at the Dinizulu Law Group go above and beyond and is a highly respected firm located in Illinois. Let us handle your concerns and fight for the compensation you deserve.

The Connection Between Bed Sores and Sepsis

November 3, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – Bed sores, or pressure ulcers, may seem like a minor skin irritation at first glance, but when its overlooked, bed sores can evolve into a life-threatening condition known as sepsis.

One or more ulcers may develop if you lie in bed and don’t change positions often enough or if you sit for extended periods of time without moving; however, it’s important to note bed sores can develop in other ways. For instance, one can form under your arms if you use crutches improperly or behind your ear if your glasses are too tight.

Sepsis, often called blood poisoning, if your body’s life-threatening response to an infection. Sepsis is a medical emergency that requires a rapid diagnosis and treatment. Sepsis kills and disabilities millions and requires early suspicion and treatment for survival.

How do bed sores lead to sepsis?

Bed sores typically develop when prolonged pressure on the skin limits blood flow to specific areas of the body, particularly on bony or prominent areas such as the elbows, heels and sacrum. One or more ulcers may develop if you lie in bed and don’t change positions often enough or if you sit for extended periods of time without moving; however, it’s important to note bed sores can develop in other ways. For instance, one can form under your arms if you use crutches improperly or behind your ear if your glasses are too tight.

Stages of Sepsis

The development of bed sores typically goes through four stages:

Stage 1: The skin appears red and irritated and feels warm, but is not broken. This stage is reversible with prompt care.
Stage 2: The skin breaks open or forms a blister, creating a shallow wound while the infection risk begins to increase.
Stage 3: The wound depends, affecting underlying muscles, tissue and sometimes bone. The risk of infection is even higher than before.
Stage 4: The most severe stage where the ulcer extends deeply into muscle and bone, making it extremely susceptible to infection.

Open bed sores, especially those in advanced stages, create an entry point for bacteria, which leads to infection. When the human body detects an infection, it normally releases chemicals to fight it. In sepsis, this response becomes dysfunctional and counter-productive. If you have a compromised immune system and poor circulation, it makes it especially difficult for someone to fight off infections effectively, making sepsis more likely.

Bed sores are preventable with appropriate care and is critical to avoid the potential aggression to sepsis.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bedsores occur in more than 1 in 10 residents in nursing homes. When a nursing home neglects a resident who can’t easily move on their own or advocate for their own health, it may lead to bed sores and sepsis.

Pursuing Legal Action to Get Justice

If you believe you or your loved ones legal rights have been violated, contact the Chicago nursing home abuse attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group today to advocate on your behalf. The initial consultation is free of charge and works on a contingency fee basis which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary recovery of funds. The Illinois statute of limitations is two years and a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date. It’s important to call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.

Our firm will fight for your right to receive compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, rehabilitative care and other damages related to nursing home abuse and neglect. Protect your rights and contact our firm today by calling (312) 384-1920.

Cook County Residents May Pay Higher Property Taxes to Subsidize Wealthy Nursing Home Owners

November 2, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – The Health Care Council of Illinois, which represents the nursing home industry, is insisting on a property tax break that Governor J.B. Pritzker has already vetoed in an effort to save Cook County nursing homes and lead to better services. The question remains: why should Cook County taxpayers take on the burden to avert pending closures and raise subpar care?

The Health Care Council is now trying to override Pritzker’s veto which would put an even heavier burden on taxpayers as higher property tax bills are on its way for most Cook County, Illinois, homeowners. The amendment was added to a larger bill which deals with other tax issues.

It’s now up to Illinois lawmakers to stand up for taxpayers and keep Pritzker’s veto as is.

Nursing homes are notoriously known for high turnover rates and low staffing levels. According to the Chicago Tribune, in September 2022, residents filed a lawsuit against Alden nursing homes claiming their “intentional lack of staffing has led to numerous injuries and illnesses.”

The lawsuit alleged that “residents have fallen down stairs while strapped to a wheelchair, fractured their neck when dropped by one person using a mechanical lift that requires two people, and ingested poisonous chemicals due to lack of care and supervision.”

Furthermore, between 2013 and 2017, more than 80% of all inspected nursing homes in the nation had an infection prevention and control deficiency, such as a lack of regular hand-washing.

The question remains: why should Cook County taxpayers bear the burden of providing a better quality of living for vulnerable nursing home residents when costs are already high?

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Illinois?

October 25, 2023/in Blog/by Yao Dinizulu

CHICAGO, IL – If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Illinois, it’s critical to understand the rules around reporting the accident so you can comply with the law and ensure you have all the necessary documentation for any future accident claims. A police report can also serve as a valuable resource for an Illinois personal injury attorney.

Should I File a Police Report for a Minor Car Accident in Illinois?

Drivers must report any accident resulting in injury, death or property damage exceeding $1,500 (or $500 if the driver is uninsured). Even if an accident does not meet this criteria, you should still file a police report.

Minor accidents like fender benders may not always meet the legal reporting threshold; however, filing reports for minor accidents can generate useful records in case of future disputes or complications. A police report can document the details of the accident, establish the timeline and note any potential contributing factors, including the weather or road conditions. Insurance companies often require the presence of an official report when processing a claim. The car accident attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group are here to help you and can use this information to help pursue compensation.

How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Illinois?

You must notify the police immediately if you are involved in a car crash resulting in death, injury or property damage resulting in $1,500. Illinois state law previously required motorists to file a report with the Illinois Department of Transportation within 10 days of the accident; however, the recent legislature removed this requirement in August 2021. A car accident attorney might recommend that you alert the police of the incident to protect your rights to compensation if the other driver was to blame.

How to Report Car Accidents

If you are involved in a car crash that results in injury, death or property damage, you must remain at the scene and alert the police immediately by calling 911.

You can also report certain types of car accidents to the Illinois State Police online, including single-vehicle crashes, crashes that result in property damage only with no injuries or accidents on the interstate highways or Illinois State Roadways under their jurisdiction.

Where to Obtain a Chicago Police Report

You can obtain a Chicago car accident report online. For each report, you must pay a $6 fee, which includes a $5 service charge and $1 convenience fee. You can also visit the Chicago Police Department Records Customer Service Section in person which is located at 3510 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60653.

What to Include in Your Police Report Request

If you have the report number for the crash, this is the quickest way you can locate the specific report. Simply search for the report number along with the crash date. Otherwise, you’ll need to search by the crash date plus the first and last name of any person involved in the car crash.

Speak to an Attorney About Your Next Steps

If you were injured in a car accident in Illinois due to another person’s negligence, get in touch with the attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group. Contact our office today for your free case review with an experienced car accident lawyer at (312) 384-1920.