Why You Need a Lawyer for a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Illinois

 Posted on December 10, 2025 in Personal Injury

It takes only a single moment for a catastrophic injury to change your life. These injuries often involve the brain, spine, or loss of a limb. They may lead to permanent medical needs and limitations to your daily life. Our Champaign, IL personal injury lawyers have helped clients fight for fair compensation in some of the most severe catastrophic injury cases. At Kanoski Bresney, we will ensure your claim adequately covers all your medical bills, lost income, and long-term care expenses. 

How Are Catastrophic Injury Claims Different From Other Personal Injury Cases?

Catastrophic injury claims are different because the harm is usually permanent. A broken arm may heal with time. Often, however, a spinal cord injury or severe brain injury never fully heals. These cases focus on accessing compensation for both present needs and future care.

Insurance companies often examine these claims more closely as well. They can be more critical of fault claims and the severity of your injuries in an effort to lessen the payout. Keep in mind that Illinois law allows injured people to seek compensation even if fault is shared. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, you can still pursue compensation if you are less than 50 percent responsible for the accident. This rule is often important in serious injury cases.

Why Are Catastrophic Injury Claims So Expensive in Illinois?

The cost of a catastrophic injury does not end after the first hospital visit. Emergency care and surgery often come first. Many people then need long-term therapy and medical equipment. Some require daily help at home. Work changes can also create major financial strain. You may not be able to return to the same job or even be able to work at all. This can affect income for the rest of your life.

What Evidence Is Needed To Prove a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

As the claimant – or plaintiff if you file a lawsuit – you are responsible for providing the proof that supports your claim. Some evidence that helps a catastrophic injury case includes:

• Medical records from doctors, hospitals, and specialists

• Police or incident reports

• Photos or videos, especially for car accident claims

• Statements from witnesses

• Expert opinions on future care and work limits

This evidence has to demonstrate both how the injury occurred and how it will affect you for years to come.

How Does an Illinois Personal Injury Lawyer Prove Long-Term Damages?

Long-term damages for catastrophic injuries are economic and non-economic. Of course, the medical bills and income changes have an economic effect, but losses also include pain and suffering. Your attorney can work with medical experts to explain future treatment needs. Financial experts may also help explain how your injuries impact your ability to work.

For example, a lawyer may use medical records and doctor reports to show that a person with a spinal cord injury will need therapy for many years. A life care planner can explain what future surgeries, medical visits, and equipment may be needed. A vocational expert may review job skills and explain how the injury limits future work options. An economist can then show how those limits affect long-term income.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Decatur, IL Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, you need experienced legal guidance. The Champaign, IL personal injury lawyers at Kanoski Bresney can offer steady support and trusted advice. We have more than 100 years of combined legal experience. Attorney Todd Bresney also brings valuable insight from his prior work with the Federal Trade Commission and the Cook County State’s Attorney. To find out what we can do for you, call 888-826-8682 today and schedule your free consultation.