June 5, 2025 | Settlements
When you’ve been injured in an accident, the thought of navigating a personal injury claim can be overwhelming. Between mounting medical bills, missed work, and ongoing pain, many victims wonder what their case is worth and whether pursuing a settlement is worth the trouble. Unfortunately, personal injury law is full of myths and misconceptions that prevent people from asserting their rights.
Myth #1: Personal Injury Claims Are Only Worth It for Major Injuries
Reality: Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to significant costs and deserve compensation.
Many people wrongly assume that personal injury lawsuits are only for catastrophic accidents or life-altering injuries.
In reality, injuries like whiplash, concussions, soft-tissue damage, or fractured bones may still lead to:
- Emergency room visits
- Physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Long-term pain
Under Illinois law, injured victims have the right to pursue damages for economic and non-economic losses—even if their injuries aren’t visibly severe. According to 735 ILCS 5/2-1115.2, plaintiffs can be compensated for pain and suffering, loss of normal life, emotional distress, and more.
Whether you were rear-ended in traffic, slipped on a wet floor, or bitten by a neighbor’s dog, if someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may have a valid claim.
Myth #2: You Can File a Personal Injury Claim at Any Time
Reality: Illinois has a strict deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits.
The statute of limitations in Illinois is just two years from the date of the injury. According to 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you must file your claim within this period or risk losing your right to compensation altogether.
There are some exceptions—such as for minors or cases involving delayed discovery—but most victims should assume that the two-year clock starts ticking on the day of the accident. Insurance companies are well aware of this deadline, and they may try to stall or delay negotiations. Having an attorney involved early ensures that you don’t miss your window for justice.
Myth #3: The Insurance Company Will Offer a Fair Settlement
Reality: Insurance companies work to protect their bottom line—not your interests.
Insurers often promote themselves as caring and helpful when you’ve been injured. But behind the scenes, their goal is to pay as little as possible.
Adjusters are trained to:
- Minimize injury severity
- Shift blame to the victim
- Pressure you to accept a lowball offer
- Delay communication until the statute of limitations runs out
Illinois is a modified comparative negligence state under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, meaning if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages. Insurance companies may try to inflate your share of the blame to avoid paying you.
Having a personal injury attorney levels the playing field. Your lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, gather medical records, obtain expert opinions, and negotiate for a full and fair settlement that reflects the true impact of your injury.
Myth #4: You’ll Have to Go to Court
Reality: Most personal injury cases settle out of court.
It’s a common fear: hiring a lawyer means going through a long, stressful trial. But the truth is, the vast majority of personal injury claims settle before ever reaching court. In fact, over 90% of cases are resolved through settlement negotiations.
A strong settlement avoids the uncertainty and costs of trial while still compensating you for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
However, if the insurance company refuses to be reasonable, your attorney should be ready to take your case to trial and present compelling evidence before a judge or jury. Having a trial-ready lawyer on your side increases your leverage during negotiations.
Myth #5: You Can Handle a Personal Injury Claim Without a Lawyer
Reality: Personal injury law is complex, and self-represented victims often leave money on the table.
While technically you can file a claim on your own, it’s rarely advisable, especially for moderate to severe injuries.
Without legal experience, you may not understand:
- What your claim is truly worth
- How to calculate future medical costs or loss of earning capacity
- How to counter an insurer’s denial or partial liability claims
- How to interpret Illinois tort law and procedural rules
Personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. This allows you to access legal representation without upfront costs and ensures your lawyer is invested in achieving the best possible result.
Myth #6: Settlements Are All About the Money
Reality: Settlements are about accountability, justice, and helping you move forward.
Yes, financial compensation is a major part of personal injury claims.
But for many victims, it’s also about:
- Holding negligent parties accountable
- Getting access to proper medical treatment
- Replacing lost wages and supporting their families
- Finding closure and stability after trauma
Injury settlements help victims regain control over their lives after being harmed by someone else’s recklessness. Whether it’s a distracted driver, negligent property owner, or careless employer, you have the right to demand justice.
Tips for a Strong Personal Injury Settlement in Illinois
If you’ve been injured and want to maximize your chances of a fair settlement, keep the following tips in mind:
- Seek immediate medical treatment and follow all recommended care.
- Document everything, including photos, witness names, and accident details.
- Avoid talking to the other party’s insurer without legal advice.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media—insurers may use this against you.
- Speak to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
An experienced attorney will help you understand your rights under Illinois law and develop a strategy tailored to your unique case.
Don’t Let Myths Stand in the Way of Your Recovery
Personal injury myths are more than just misunderstandings—they can cost you time, money, and justice. If you’ve been hurt in an accident in Illinois, don’t rely on what you’ve heard or read online. Contact Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation with a Chicago personal injury lawyer.
Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
875 N Dearborn St 4th Floor
Chicago, IL 60610
(312) 635-5400
Open 24/7