Personal Injury Law Blog

Everyday activities seem harmless until an injury lands you or a loved one in the emergency room. A recent article in The New York Times highlighted common risks emergency room doctors repeatedly see causing serious injuries. From improperly cutting food to not wearing a helmet, these small mistakes can lead to severe harm, costly medical bills, and, in some cases, personal injury claims.

Understanding these risks can help prevent avoidable accidents, but you may have legal options if negligence or defective products play a role in your injury. Knowing when an injury qualifies for a personal injury lawsuit could make a significant difference in receiving compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Avocados and Bagels

Hand injuries caused by cutting avocados and bagels are surprisingly common. Emergency rooms frequently treat deep lacerations, nerve damage, and tendon injuries from people slicing toward their hands instead of using a stable cutting surface.

A sharp knife and an unstable grip can quickly lead to serious cuts requiring stitches or even surgery. A product liability claim may be an option if a defective knife or poorly designed kitchen tool contributed to an injury. Likewise, if an establishment fails to train employees on proper food preparation and an injury occurs, the business may be responsible for damages.

Why You Should Always Wear a Helmet

Biking, skateboarding, or using an e-bike or scooter without a helmet significantly increases the risk of head injuries. Doctors report a clear difference in the severity of injuries between individuals wearing helmets and those not.

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in permanent cognitive impairment, loss of mobility, and long-term medical costs. Illinois does not have a statewide helmet law, but Chicago strongly encourages helmet use. If you are injured in a bike or e-scooter accident due to a negligent driver, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

When Petting a Dog Leads to an Attack

Dog bites can happen without warning, even from a neighbor’s pet or at a local park. Emergency rooms frequently treat severe lacerations, infections, and nerve damage caused by dog attacks. In Illinois, dog owners are legally responsible for injuries caused by their pets under the state’s strict liability dog bite law.

Unlike some states requiring proof that the dog had a history of aggression, Illinois law holds the owner liable even if the dog has never bitten anyone. If you are bitten and suffer injuries, you may have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, scarring, emotional distress, and lost income.

Why Are Trampolines So Dangerous?

Trampolines might seem like a fun way to stay active, but they are one of the leading causes of childhood injuries. Studies show that between 2009 and 2018, over 800,000 trampoline-related injuries were reported, with many requiring hospital treatment. Emergency room doctors see fractures, dislocations, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) linked to trampoline accidents.

Many of these incidents occur when multiple people bounce together, making collisions unavoidable. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that only one person jump at a time and that padding cover the springs and bars. However, even with precautions, the risk remains high. If a trampoline lacks safety measures or is poorly maintained, the manufacturer or property owner may be liable for injuries under premises liability or product liability laws.

Slipping on Ice While Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Crocs and other shoes without traction are a common cause of winter falls. Emergency rooms see sprains, fractures, and concussions from people slipping on icy sidewalks, driveways, or parking lots while wearing unsuitable footwear.

Illinois property owners are required to maintain safe conditions, including clearing ice and snow to prevent dangerous falls. If a business or property owner fails to remove hazards properly, they could be liable for injuries under premises liability laws. Slip-and-fall victims may be entitled to compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages.

Why You Should Never Ignore Early Symptoms After An Accident 

Ignoring sudden chest pain, paralysis, or stroke symptoms could be deadly. Emergency room physicians emphasize that delaying treatment reduces survival rates and increases long-term health complications.

Beyond personal health risks, driving yourself to the hospital with a medical emergency puts others on the road in danger. If someone causes a crash due to a medical event they ignored, they may be held responsible for damages under Illinois negligence laws. Seeking immediate medical attention when severe symptoms appear could save lives and prevent liability issues.

How Personal Injury Claims Can Help After an Accident

Many common injuries occur due to unsafe products, negligence, or hazardous conditions. In these cases, Illinois personal injury laws allow victims to pursue compensation.

If an injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, a lawsuit may help recover:

• Medical expenses for hospital stays, surgery, rehabilitation, and medication;
• Lost income from time off work due to recovery;
• Pain and suffering from emotional and physical distress; and
• Long-term care costs for permanent injuries or disabilities.

Understanding your legal rights can make a difference in whether you recover compensation for damages.

Have You Been Injured From A Dog Bite or Another Type of Situation? Contact Us Today!

Illinois law permits those who were injured as a result of another’s negligence to pursue a legal claim against the negligent party. These personal injury lawsuits can be crucial for victims, providing them with much-needed compensation designed to cover all their accident-related expenses. 

At the Chicago personal injury law firm of Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we have nearly 40 years of hands-on experience aggressively representing the interests of accident victims. We’ve recovered millions of dollars on behalf of our clients and look forward to learning more about how we can help connect you with the compensation you deserve. 

To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, call Briskman Briskman & Greenberg at 1-877-595-4878 or connect with us through our secure online contact form.