See actual awards and settlements paid to Illinois car accident victims. Find injury cases similar to yours.

More than 61,000 people are injured or killed in Illinois traffic accidents every year.¹ If you or a loved one are injured in a collision, you can pursue compensation.

The average car accident settlement for a moderate injury claim in Illinois is $27,287. Average payouts range from $5,583 for minor injuries to $786,794 for severe injuries.

Average Illinois Car Accident Settlement Amounts

We collected and analyzed a cross-section of personal injury cases filed in Illinois arising from different types of vehicle accidents. Each plaintiff in the group received a court award or settled their case before trial.

Average Payout by Severity of Injury
Minor Injury	$5,583
Moderate Injury	$27,287
Severe Injury	$786,794
Payout Range by Severity of Injury
Minor Injury	$373 - $11,000
Moderate Injury	$12,716 - $60,000
Severe Injury	$70,000 - $6,250,000

Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents

Our sample group includes a variety of accident scenarios. The most common types of car accidents in Illinois are rear-end accidents, followed by side-impact collisions.

Average Rear-End Accident Settlements
Minor Injury	$5,805
Moderate Injury	$23,022
Severe Injury	$187,455
Average Side-Impact Collision Settlements
Minor Injury	$5,247
Moderate Injury	$26,776
Severe Injury	$882,659

Types of Car Accident Injuries

Our case group includes a range of injuries, from mild muscle sprains, to limb amputation, to serious brain injuries. Most accident victims can expect to settle in the moderate payout range.

Neck and back injuries are the most common injury in all types of accidents, followed by head injuries. Keep in mind that car accident payouts are intended to compensate the claimant for all their damages, not just one specific injury.

Average Neck and Back Injury Settlements
Minor Injury	$6,057
Moderate Injury	$27,468
Severe Injury	$350,954
Average Head Injury Settlements
Minor Injury	$2,008
Moderate Injury	$25,328
Severe Injury	$1,196,268

How Car Accident Settlements Are Calculated

Illinois is a traditional fault or “tort” state, meaning you have the right to pursue compensation directly from the at-fault driver. In most cases, you’ll make a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy.

An easy way to estimate a fair settlement is the multiple method. Add up all your economic damages like medical bills, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Then add one to three times that amount to account for your pain and suffering.

A multiple of one is reasonable for minor injuries. A multiple of two or three is appropriate for injuries that had a bigger impact on your life after the accident.

Severe injury claims are best handled by an experienced personal injury attorney. Your attorney will seek compensation for your current damages, potential future costs, loss of income-earning capacity, and the significant pain and suffering from serious injuries.

Other factors that influence injury payouts in Illinois:

• Shared Fault – Illinois is a modified comparative fault state. This means you can pursue compensation from the other party so long as you are not more than 50 percent to blame for causing your injuries. Your payout will be reduced according to your share of fault.
• Auto Policy Limits – Illinois requires all drivers to carry insurance no less than $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injuries, and $20,000 for property damage.
• Multiple Claimants – When multiple people are injured in the same accident, there may not be enough insurance money to fully compensate everyone.
• Uninsured/Underinsured – Illinois requires auto policies to have uninsured (UM) and underinsured (UIM) motorist coverage equal to the minimum liability insurance limits.
• Punitive Damages – Punitive damages in Illinois can be awarded when a court has awarded compensatory damages and finds the defendant guilty of intentional and outrageous conduct.
• Commercial Policies – When the at-fault driver was operating a company car or truck, higher commercial liability limits may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minor Injury Case Examples

Minor car accident injuries are typically soft-tissue bumps, bruises, sprains and strains that might keep you out of work for a few days until the soreness subsides. Most minor injury victims make a full recovery within a few weeks.

Small Award for Passenger In Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Head, face, neck and back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $373
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a passenger, alleged that the motor vehicle in which she rode was involved in a motor vehicle accident near an intersection. Plaintiff claimed that the collision caused her injuries of the head, face, neck, back, nerves, and nervous system, disfigurement, sickness, disability, pain and suffering and medical expenses. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant alleging that defendant was negligent in rear-ending the vehicle in which plaintiff was a passenger and failed to observe the vehicle in front of her caused the collision and plaintiff’s injuries. Defendant denied the allegations. The jury returned a verdict for the plaintiff and awarded her $373 in damages.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Billingsley v. Lambdin, 03 LM 022

Pedestrian Hit By Car Suffers Shoulder Injuries

Type of Injury: Shoulder injuries-Rotator Cuff, Bursitis and Cartilage
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,035
Case Summary: Plaintiff, an adult male jogger running southward, reportedly was struck by defendant’s vehicle at an intersection. Plaintiff allegedly suffered rotator cuff tenderness and bursitis of the right shoulder due to a complete tear, a SLAP lesion, of his shoulder labrum on his superior side for which he had arthroscopic surgery, and a right elbow contusion as a result of the accident Plaintiff sued defendant contending defendant was speeding and failed to stop or slow down when a collision was imminent. Defendant denied liability. Jury found in favor of the plaintiff and awarded $2,069 for damages. Jurors also found the plaintiff was 50% negligent and reduced the award to $1,035.
Location: Lake County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Tarpey JR v, Rehm, 2012-L-000137

Scrapes and Lacerations from Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Head injuries-bruises, abrasions and lacerations
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,602
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was operating his motor vehicle when a vehicle operated by defendant attempted a left turn at an intersection, and the vehicles collided. Plaintiff claimed she suffered bruises, abrasions, lacerations in her face and other ailments as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed suit, contending defendant failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to yield the right-of-way and failed to decrease her speed to avoid the collision. The defendant admitted liability but disputed the nature and extent of the plaintiff’s injuries. The jury awarded the plaintiff $1,082 for medical expenses, $260 for loss of normal life and $260 for lost wages.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Brunkow v. Giorgi, 01L 009887, 01 L 1314

Sciatica Pain from Rear-End Accident

Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal Nerve with Disc Injury
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,232
Case Summary: Plaintiff allegedly was driving near an intersection when his vehicle was struck by defendant from behind. Plaintiff claimed he suffered bulging discs resulting in sciatica with pain in his right hip, leg and ankle, a concussion with intermittent headaches and a lumbar strain as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendant contending that defendant drove too fast and failed to yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic while turning left. Defendant admitted her negligence but contended plaintiff had a history of chronic lower back pain and arthritis and that his degenerative changes were unrelated to the accident. The court found for plaintiff.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Flick v. Johnson, 2011-L-000835

Plaintiff Shares Fault for Rear-End Collison

Type of Injury: Back and shoulder injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $2,916
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she stopped her vehicle to wait for an ambulance pass when she was rear-ended by defendant. Plaintiff contended that she suffered physical injuries to her back and shoulders as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a complaint alleging that defendant negligently collided with her vehicle. Defendant denied all allegations and asserted an affirmative defense that claimed plaintiff’s failure to exercise due care resulted in contributory fault greater than 50 percent. The jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, awarding her $3,644.95 in damages. However, jury concluded plaintiff was 20% at fault and reduced the damage award to $2,915.96.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Warren v. Vongphakdy, 03AR000097

Side-Impact Crash Aggravates Shoulder Injuries

Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-an aggravation of his pre-existing right shoulder injury resulting in a torn rotator cuff; Neck injury-intervertebral herniations at C4-5 and C5-6, and radicular pain in both upper extremities
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating his vehicle through an intersection when the front-passenger quarter panel of his vehicle was struck by a vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff and defendant each claimed that the other ran the stop sign commanding their respective approaches to the intersection, causing the subject accident. Plaintiff claimed to have suffered an aggravation of his pre-existing right shoulder injury resulting in a torn rotator cuff, intervertebral herniations at C4-5 and C5-6, and radicular pain in both upper extremities. Defense counsel contended that plaintiff’s injuries were pre-existing in nature. Prior to trial, the parties negotiated a settlement. The defendant’s carrier agreed to pay plaintiff $3,000.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Arrington v. Berkley, 2015-L-003089

Drivers Equally Liable for Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Back injury-cervicogenic headache
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,047
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was operating his motor vehicle with his wife as a passenger when they were struck by defendant’s vehicle at an intersection. Plaintiff driver alleged that he suffered permanent and progressive injuries including cervicogenic headache as a result of the collision. Plaintiffs sued defendant, claiming the defendant’s careless and negligent driving led to the collision. Defendant denied negligence and contended that any damages or injuries sustained by the plaintiffs were the result of the negligence operation of their own motor vehicle. Jury awarded a total of $8,094 to the plaintiffs for medical care. Jury also found Plaintiff driver 50% liable for the accident.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Raptis v. Jung, 2002L012578

Side-Impact Crash Injuries to Head and Back

Type of Injury: Head injuries-bruises and contusions; back injuries-spine; lacerations to limbs
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,050
Case Summary: Plaintiff contended that defendant’s vehicle collided with his vehicle at an intersection, causing an accident. Plaintiff claimed to suffer bruises, contusions and lacerations to his limbs, back, spine and head. Plaintiff filed suit, arguing defendant drove at an unreasonable speed for the conditions, failed to keep a proper lookout for other vehicles at the intersection, failed to obey traffic-control signals before entering the intersection, failed to reduce her speed to avoid the collision. Defendant admitted negligence but denied plaintiff was injured to the extent claimed. Jury awarded plaintiff $125 for loss of normal life, $675 for pain and suffering, $3,000 for medical expenses and $250 for lost wages.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Danegelis v. Deiparine, 02L1353

Plaintiff Settles Soft-Tissue Injury Claims

Type of Injury: Back injury-spine ; Head injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $4,663
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she was driving, approaching an intersection when defendant, driving in the same direction struck plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed injuries to her limbs, back, spine and head as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligent driving, accusing defendant of failing to keep proper lookout, driving too fast in the circumstances, and failing to maintain proper control the vehicle she was driving, following too closely in the traffic conditions and failing to slow down or serve with a view to avoid a collision. Before a jury heard these claims, the defendant reportedly settled with plaintiff for $4,663.10.
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Murphy v. Harlan, 05 AR 583

Cervical and Lumbar Dysfunction from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal Nerve with Vertebra Injury
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $5,138
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was involved in a rear-end motor vehicle accident in which the rear of her vehicle was impacted by a vehicle operated by defendant Plaintiff reportedly suffered cervical segmental dysfunction resulting in cervical radiculitis as well as lumbar segmental dysfunction as a result. Plaintiff sued defendant, contending defendant failed to keep a proper and sufficient lookout, followed the plaintiff’s vehicle too closely and failed to stop her vehicle in order to avoid a collision. Parties stipulated in mandatory arbitration that defendant was guilty of negligence. Defendant rejected the arbitration award of $16,000. A jury awarded plaintiff $5,138.59, to which the court added costs in judgment.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Ballard v. Williams, 2011-M1-030719

At-Fault Driver Distracted by Choking Child Passenger

Type of Injury: Soft-tissue neck injury; aggravation of a pre existing knee injury
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $5,230
Case Summary: Plaintiff was proceeding north on Road A approaching the intersection with the Road B. At that time, defendant was proceeding west on Road B when his young stepson-passenger began choking on a candy bar. Defendant admittedly took his eyes of the road as he tried to extract the candy bar from the youngster’s mouth. As defendant’s vehicle proceeded through the intersection, it was broadsided by plaintiff’s vehicle who could not stop in time. Plaintiff had the right-of-way. Liability was not contested and the case proceeded to trial as to the damage issues only. Plaintiff claimed a soft-tissue neck injury as a result of the accident, as well as aggravation of a pre existing knee injury. Defense argued that most of plaintiff’s chiropractic treatment was not necessary. Jury returned a damage award in favor of plaintiff for $5,230.28.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: McKee v. Negron, 2013 AR 221

Neck, Shoulder, and Back Complaints after Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Neck, Shoulder and lower back injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she was driving her vehicle and while stopped at an intersection defendant drove her vehicle into the rear of plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff asserted that she suffered injuries to her neck, right shoulder and lower back as a result. Plaintiff filed a complaint accusing defendant of failing to keep proper lookout and stop in time to avoid a rear-end collision. The defendant denied that her vehicle struck the rear of the plaintiff’s, and denied negligence. The case went to arbitration. Arbitrators found in favor of the plaintiff and against the defendant on the issue of liability, and awarded $6,500, plus court costs.
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Denham v. Quaiver, 04 LK 624

Defendant Blames Phantom Driver for Rear-End Collison

Type of Injury: Soft tissue injury to her back
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,587
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving her car northbound. At an intersection, plaintiff began making a right turn onto an eastbound Street when her vehicle was rear-ended by a car driven by defendant. Plaintiff claimed to sustain a soft-tissue injury to her back as a result of the collision. Defendant contended that he did not rear-end plaintiff’s vehicle, but was actually pushed into it by a vehicle that struck him on the front driver’s side corner, which then fled the scene. Defendant claimed that he was not negligent in this incident. Plaintiff’s counsel disputed the defendant’s claim of a third vehicle being involved in the incident. Two pedestrian witnesses testified that they did not see a third vehicle involved in the accident. Jury found in favor of plaintiff, awarding her $6,586.81.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Brown v. Thomas, 12-M1-302807

Whiplash Injuries from Rear-End Accident

Type of Injury: Whiplash
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,675
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was stopped in traffic, while a vehicle driven by defendant approached and struck her vehicle from behind. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered whiplash injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant for negligently causing the accident. In her complaint, plaintiff accused defendant of following too closely, speeding, failing to keep a lookout and failing to brake. The plaintiff said she was forced to pay for medical treatment because of the accident. Defendant denied the accusations. Jury reached a verdict in in favor of the plaintiff, awarding her $5,575 for medical expenses and $2,100 for past and future pain and suffering.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Miller v. Panzeca, 03 L 93

Side-Impact Collision with Cervical Strain

Type of Injury: Back injury-cervical strain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $7,800
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she drove her vehicle northbound, while near an intersection, defendant struck plaintiff’s vehicle, causing an accident. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered cervical strain as a result if the collision. Plaintiff filed a complaint, claiming defendant’s negligence caused the accident and her injuries. Defendant denied all allegations of negligence in his answer. The case went to arbitration. Arbitrators found in favor of plaintiff and awarded her $11,000.00, including costs. Defendant filed a Notice of Rejection. The case then went to a full jury trial. Jury entered its verdict and found in favor of the plaintiff. The jury awarded her $7,800 in damages.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Barten v. Bradley, 01 AR 746

Cervical and Lumbar Strain from Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back injury-cervical/lumbar strains
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,595
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he drove his vehicle southwest when defendant who was headed in the same direction rear-ended the Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered lumbar and cervical strains as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendant accusing her of disregarding a traffic signal and failing to stop when danger was imminent. Plaintiff claimed compensation for damages including medical expenses and lost income. The defendant only admitted driving her vehicle on the day in question and denied negligence. A jury found in favor of plaintiff against the defendant. Jurors assessed damages in the sum of $8,595.00.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Hesselbach v. Stone, 04 M1 13438

Neck and Back Injury Victim Rear-Ended at Red Light

Type of Injury: Soft tissue neck and back injuries; tinnitus
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $8,680
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving southbound. While stopped at a red light at an intersection, his vehicle was rear-ended by a car being driven by defendant. Plaintiff claimed to sustain soft tissue neck and back injuries, as well as tinnitus. According to plaintiff, defendant failed to maintain a proper lookout, failed to yield, drove at an improper speed, failed to decrease her speed, and followed his vehicle too closely. This was disputed by defendant who contended that her vehicle collided with plaintiff’s at 2 mph, after she lost control from sliding on ice on the street. At trial, defendant admitted negligence in the collision, disputing the injuries and damages alleged by plaintiff. The jury found that the accident with defendant was the proximate cause of plaintiff’s injuries. It determined that plaintiff’s damages totaled $8,680.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Jordan v. Glass, 10-L-014712

Soft-Tissue Neck and Back Injuries from Head-On Crash

Type of Injury: Neck injuries; shoulders injuries-including muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves; Back injuries-soft tissues of cervical and lumbar area
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,039
Case Summary: Plaintiff 1 allegedly drove westbound with her two minor children as passengers in her vehicle. Plaintiff contended that defendant drove northbound when the two vehicles allegedly collided near an intersection. Plaintiffs claimed that they suffered injuries to neck, shoulders, lower back, soft tissues of cervical, shoulder and lumbar area, including muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves as a result of the collision. Plaintiffs sued defendant, alleging defendant’s negligence caused the collision. Defendant denied all allegations of negligence and liability. The jury returned a verdict in favor of all plaintiffs, awarding them a total of $30,116.10 for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering.
Location: St. Clair County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Newbern v. Manley, 02 L 764

Plaintiff Settles Rear-End Neck and Shoulder Injury Claim

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical Strain; Shoulder strain
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $10,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed that she was stopped in traffic near an intersection, when her vehicle was struck from the rear by a vehicle driven by defendant. Plaintiff alleged that the collision caused her to sustain cervical and shoulder strains. Plaintiff sued defendant, contending that defendant was negligent for traveling too fast, failing to reduce his speed to avoid the collision, following too closely, and failing to keep a proper lookout. Plaintiff admitted that contact occurred between his vehicle and Plaintiff’s stopped vehicle but denied the remaining allegations of the complaint. Plaintiff accepted a settlement of $10,500 from defendant’s insurance carrier, minus a credit of $2,722 for medical expenses already paid.
Location: Kendall County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Wagner v. Caron, 01-L-0056

Plaintiff Award Reduced for Shared Fault

Type of Injury: soft tissue back and neck sprains and strains.
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $11,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating a vehicle southeast on Avenue A. He entered the intersection with Avenue B and struck a vehicle driven by defendant, who had been traveling east. The impact occurred between the front of plaintiff’s vehicle and the passenger side of the defendant’s vehicle. Following the accident plaintiff was diagnosed with soft tissue back and neck sprains and strains. Plaintiff alleged that he entered the intersection on a green light. He argued that defendant was inattentive while driving, disregarded a traffic signal and failed to yield the right-of-way. Defendant denied negligence and blamed the accident on plaintiff’s negligence or, in the very least, his comparative negligence. Jury attributed 80% liability to defendant and 20% liability to Plaintiff. The jury’s award of $13,750 was reduced to $11,000 to reflect the comparative negligence finding.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Orozco v. Schramm, 15 M1 302217

Moderate Injury Case Examples

Moderate car accident injuries may include more extensive soft-tissue injuries, lacerations, concussions, simple bone fractures, and slipped or herniated discs. The victim may be left with some residual impairment to the injured body part. Moderate injuries can keep the victim out of work for several weeks or months.

Plaintiff Injured in Two Rear-End Collisions

Type of Injury: Back, right shoulder and right knee injuries; urinary incontinence
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $12,716
Case Summary: Plaintiff allegedly was involved in two separate collisions. In the first, Plaintiff claimed she was rear-ended by defendant’s vehicle at intersection. Plaintiff claimed that she suffered injuries to her back, right shoulder and right knee. In the second, plaintiff claimed her vehicle was again rear-ended by co-defendant’s vehicle causing aggravation of her injuries suffered in the first collision. Plaintiff filed a negligent driving complaint, accusing defendants of following too closely, and driving too fast for the traffic conditions. Defendants denied liability. Jurors found for plaintiff and against defendant for $7,263.60, allocated to cover medical expenses. Jurors also found for plaintiff against co-defendant for $5,452.25.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Swaback v. Hulet, 01 L 01181

Extensive Strains and Contusions from Head-On Collision

Type of Injury: Neck, head, back, leg and arm injuries-Strains and contusions.
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was operating his vehicle westbound, preparing to turn southbound when a collision occurred between his vehicle and a vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff claimed he suffered strains and contusions to his neck, head, back, leg and arm. Plaintiff sued defendant, alleging defendant lost control of his vehicle and crossed the centerline, striking plaintiff’s vehicle on the driver’s side, front end and middle. Plaintiff argued defendant was negligent for failing to maintain a proper lookout, driving at a speed greater than reasonable for the traffic conditions and failing to maintain his brakes in working order. Defendant disputed all allegations. Jury returned a Plaintiff verdict.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Ruby v. Antrim, 02L 014059

Back, Neck Hip, and Knee Injuries from Side-Impact Crash

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Brachial Plexus; right shoulder, neck, right hip and right knee strains with muscle spasms and myositis
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,659
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged his vehicle, traveling northwest, allegedly was struck by a vehicle driven by defendant, traveling southeast and attempting to make a left turn at an intersection. Plaintiff claimed he suffered cervicobrachial syndrome which resulted in permanent impairment, as well as right shoulder, neck, right hip and right knee strains with muscle spasms and myositis, as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendant contending defendant failed to keep a proper lookout for traffic, failed to yield the right-of-way and made an improper left turn. Defendant denied liability. Jury returned a verdict for plaintiff in $14,094. In judgment, the court also assessed costs to the defendant.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Barefield v. Lyons, 2011-L-005561

Fractured Clavicle and Pneumothorax From Side-Impact Crash

Type of Injury: Shoulder injury-fractured right clavicle; pneumothorax
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $15,944
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged he was a passenger in defendant’ vehicle and that while near an intersection, defendant attempted a left turn, colliding with the vehicle operated by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed he suffered a fractured right clavicle and pneumothorax and was hospitalized as a result if the accident. Plaintiff brought suit against both drivers, claiming defendant was negligent for failing to yield the right of way while co-defendant was driving too fast for the conditions. Both defendants denied the allegations of negligence. The jury found for the plaintiff against defendant only and awarded $4,943.92 for medical expenses, $7,000 for pain and suffering and $4,000 for loss of normal life.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Papaskiri v. Bzikadze, 02L 001567

Disc Herniated in Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back injury-Herniated disk
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $16,500
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was a passenger in a vehicle driven by defendant when the vehicle was rear-ended by co-defendant. Plaintiff claimed that the collision forced defendant’s vehicle to collide into the vehicle in front of her. Plaintiff contended she suffered a herniated disc as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed suit, claiming defendant’s vehicle came to a stop in heavy traffic while co-defendant was negligent for failing to slow down in anticipation of the stopped traffic. Defendants denied liability. Jury awarded Plaintiff $16,500, including $5,000 for future pain and suffering, $10,000 for medical expenses and $1,500 for lost salary.
Location: Macon County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Reynolds v. Senters, 00-L-129

Rear-End Torn Meniscus Claim Settled

Type of Injury: Knee injury-torn meniscus
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $18,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating a vehicle near an intersection when he was rear-ended by a car driven by defendant. Plaintiff claimed defendant was inattentive and failed to keep a proper lookout. He also alleged that defendant failed to maintain an appropriate distance between the vehicles. Following the accident, plaintiff complained of left knee pain. He sought treatment from an orthopedic surgeon who diagnosed him with a torn meniscus. Defendant did not dispute liability, but challenged the assertion that plaintiff’s claimed knee injury was causally related to the motor vehicle accident. Defendant disputed that the low-impact collision was the cause of plaintiff’s relatively minor meniscus tear. Defendant also noted that plaintiff declined surgery and received minimal treatment. The case subsequently settled for $18,000 of the available $20,000 of insurance coverage.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Hurtado v. Yousif, 2016-L-33790

Aggravation of Whiplash in T-Bone Collision

Type of Injury: An aggravation of her preexisting whiplash condition.
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $19,025
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving on southbound Avenue X, near its intersection with Avenue Y. As her vehicle proceeded through the intersection, its passenger side was struck by a car that was being operated by defendant, who was traveling on eastbound Avenue Y. Plaintiff claimed that defendant ignored a red traffic signal. Defendant initially presented an affirmative defense in which she contended that she was slightly dazed at the time of the accident, as a result of an earlier blood donation. She subsequently conceded liability. Plaintiff claimed that she sustained whiplash. She acknowledged that she had sustained whiplash in a motor vehicle accident that occurred one year prior to the instant accident. Her expert chiropractor opined that the instant accident aggravated the preexisting whiplash condition. The jury rendered a plaintiff’s verdict. It awarded her $19,025.
Location: Peoria County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Bradley v. Meyers, 03-L-339

Head and Shoulder Injury Award for Rear-End Accident

Type of Injury: Head injury-concussion and headaches; shoulder bruises
Severity Rating: Moderate
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed he was operating his pickup truck in a southerly direction while defendant was operating her vehicle in the same direction when a rear-end collision occurred at an intersection. Plaintiff contended that he suffered a blow to his head resulting in a concussion among other injuries. Plaintiff filed suit, claiming defendant was negligent for failing to come to a complete stop at the stop sign at the intersection and allowing her vehicle to strike the plaintiff’s vehicle. Defendant admitted there was contact between the vehicles but denied plaintiff’s allegations of negligence. Jury awarded plaintiff $20,000 for medical expenses, pain and suffering and loss of normal life.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Gannon v. Stevens, 03L 002979

Cervical and Lumbar Strain from Two Rear-End Accidents

Type of Injury: Back injury-Cervical / Lumbar Strain
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,480
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged she was involved in two separate motor vehicle accidents. In the first accident, the northbound vehicle in which the plaintiff was a passenger was struck from the rear by the female defendant’s vehicle near an intersection. In the second accident, the southbound vehicle in which the plaintiff was a passenger was struck from the rear by the female co-defendant’s vehicle near an intersection. Plaintiff alleged that she suffered cervical and lumbar strains and aggravation of previous injuries as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendants asserting that defendants were negligent. Defendants denied liability. Plaintiff’s award included $14,480 from the defendant and $6,000 from the co-defendant.
Location: DuPage County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Reuter v. Kochan, 06-L-1128

Plaintiff Shared Fault for Rear-End Accident, Award Reduced

Type of Injury: Back injuries-cervical/lumbar strains
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $20,800
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged he was operating a motor vehicle when he was rear-ended by defendant. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered cervical and lumbar strains as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a lawsuit against defendant, claiming the defendant carelessly and negligently collided with the rear of the plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff sought compensation in an amount in excess of $50,000 for physical injuries, pain and suffering, medical expenses and loss of earnings. Defendant admitted colliding with plaintiff’s vehicle but denied negligence. The jury found in favor of plaintiff and awarded him a total of $40,000 but found him 48% at fault. Plaintiff’s award reduced to $20,800 after fault apportionment.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Kazazi v. Theobald, 02L015030

Bruises and Contusions to Head and Body in Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Head injury; Bruises and contusions
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $22,088
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed she was driving and as she tried to turn left at an intersection, a vehicle driven by defendant struck hers from behind. Plaintiff contended that she sustained bruises and contusions that required orthopedic and hospital care, and that some of her alleged injuries were permanent. Plaintiff sued defendant for allegedly following too closely and failing to keep control of his vehicle. The defendant admitted the time and place of the accident, and that his vehicle struck plaintiff’s, but denied negligence. A jury reached a verdict, finding in favor of the plaintiff for $22,088.09 in damages.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Suarez v. Matela, 02 L 10546

Motorcycle Hit By Weed Trimmer, Shared Fault for Crash

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Cervical strain
Type of Accident: Single Vehicle
Award/Settlement Amount: $22,168
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed he was driving his motorcycle in a westerly direction when his motorcycle was struck by defendant’s weed trimmer, causing plaintiff to lose control of his motorcycle. Plaintiff alleged he suffered a concussion and disc herniations as a result. Plaintiff filed a complaint alleging defendant negligently operated his weed trimmer and carelessly struck plaintiff with it. Defendant denied all allegations and asserted affirmative defense of plaintiff’s violation of his duty of reasonable care including failure to maintain a proper lookout. Jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, and set his damages at $44,336.47. The award was reduced to $22,168.24 based on the jury’s determination that plaintiff was 50% negligent.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Comsa v. Ortiz, 02L011347

Herniated Cervical Discs from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Neck injury-Herniated Disc at C5-6
Severity Rating: Moderate
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $25,833
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating an SUV on Road A, toward its intersection with Road B. As she was stopped in traffic, her vehicle’s rear bumper was struck by a trailing SUV that was being driven by defendant. Defendant conceded liability for the accident. The trial addressed damages. Plaintiff claimed that she sustained a herniated disc in her cervical spine at the C5-6 level. Plaintiff admitted that she had received conservative treatments with physicians one month before the accident, but claimed that the treatments were for neck pain and headaches were caused by migraines. The defense contended that the plaintiff’s neck injury was unrelated to the accident, and that her injury could not have been caused by the force of the rear-end impact. The jury awarded plaintiff $25,833.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Jaurigue v. Green, 15-L-3362

Low Back Pain from Rear-End Collision and Fall

Type of Injury: Soft tissue low back and neck injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $28,705
Case Summary: Plaintiff was traveling eastbound. At an intersection, plaintiff’s vehicle was rear-ended by a vehicle driven by defendant. Following the accident, plaintiff drove herself to Hospital, with complaints of low back and neck pain. She followed up with her primary care doctor and also underwent physical therapy for low back pain radiating into her right leg. Subsequently, plaintiff was involved in a fall and a second motor vehicle accident, which she claimed exacerbated the injuries sustained in the accident with defendant. The Defense counsel disputed plaintiff’s allegations, contending that her injuries after the accident with defendant had completely resolved prior to her fall at work, according to a report from her first physical therapist. Counsel contended that any problems plaintiff continued to have were unrelated to the initial accident. The jury determined that plaintiff’s damages totaled $28,705.20.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Paz v. Ahlman, 11-L-011297

Two Plaintiffs Injured in Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Plaintiff 1-Back injuries-bulging disc at C5-C6; facial lacerations and injuries to ankle; Plaintiff 2-Back injuries-herniated disc at L5-S1, injuries to neck, shin, left leg, hand and headaches.
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $30,107
Case Summary: Plaintiff and his passenger, allegedly were driving southbound when defendant, in a vehicle owned by his parents, attempted a left turn, and the vehicles collided. Plaintiff claimed to suffer a bulging disc at C5-C6 as well as facial lacerations and injures to his ankle and elbow as a result of the accident. The Passenger claimed the impact caused him to sustain a herniated disc at L5-S1, as well as injuries to his neck, shin, left leg, hand and headaches. Plaintiffs sued defendants, contending defendant failed to yield the right of way. Defendants denied liability. The jury found for both plaintiffs against defendants. Plaintiff 1-$24,776.15; Plaintiff 2-$30,106.50
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Niehus v. Nelson, 02 LK 571

Neck, Back, and Knee Injuries from Broadside Collision

Type of Injury: Soft tissue back and neck injuries; left knee pain and right ankle pain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $35,697
Case Summary: Plaintiff was operating her vehicle when she was broadsided on her driver’s side in an intersection accident. The other vehicle, driven by defendant disregarded a stop sign. Liability was not contested at trial and the matter proceeded to disposition by way of jury trial to determine proximate cause, injuries, and damages. Plaintiff was treated for complaints of back and neck pain and stiffness. She also complained of left knee pain and right ankle pain. Defense counsel challenged the causal relationship between plaintiff’s claimed injuries and the automobile accident. Jury found that plaintiff’s injuries were proximately caused by the motor vehicle accident, awarding her $35,697.03, consisting of $16,000 for pain and suffering, $5,000 for loss of normal life, $13,429.73 for medical expenses, and $1,167.30 lost wages.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Keys v. Serna, 2013-L-009513

Mother of Three Injured Passengers Shared Fault

Type of Injury: Injuries to face, chest, left arm, right leg, axial spine and neck; spasm of right upper trapezius, cervical strain, hematoma under right eye, fibromyalgia
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $44,224
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged was driving her vehicle with her three minor children as passengers. Plaintiff reportedly turned left to head south and allegedly collided with the Plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiffs allegedly sustained injuries to the face, chest, arms, legs and spine. A doctor diagnosed a hematoma under the right eye of one of the minors. Plaintiffs sued defendant for negligent driving. Defendant denied negligence and denied any of the plaintiffs sustained injuries or damages to the extent claimed. Jury found in favor of the plaintiffs, assessing $163,720 in damages among the three of them. Jurors also apportioned 15% negligence to Plaintiff driver, reducing her award to $132,673.10.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Sulieman v. Nottke, 03 M1 303154

Nerve Damage and Disc Herniations from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Back injury-Spinal Nerve, disc herniations at L3-4
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $45,100
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that his vehicle was rear-ended by another vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff claimed that he suffered injuries to his spinal nerve and disc herniation at L3-4. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligent driving and following the plaintiff’s vehicle more closely than was reasonable. Plaintiff sought $15,000 as compensation for pain and suffering and medical expenses. Defendant admitted negligence, but denied the extent to which the plaintiff claimed to be injured. A jury found in favor of plaintiff for $45,100, awarding $13,544 for medical expenses, $18,000 for past and future pain and suffering, $6,106 for past and future loss of a normal life and $7,450 for lost earnings.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Jurek v. Kohler, 01 M1 306539

Pedestrian Suffers Leg Fractures When Struck By Car

Type of Injury: Leg injury-Fractured tibia and fibula
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $57,699
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a pedestrian, alleged that he was crossing a road, when he was struck by a vehicle operated by defendant. Plaintiff reportedly suffered fractures of the tibia and fibula, requiring surgical repair. Plaintiff filed suit, contending defendant was negligent for failing to avoid colliding with a pedestrian and failed to keep a proper lookout. Defendant denied liability and argued the plaintiff failed to cross within a marked crosswalk, failed to yield the right-of-way, attempted to cross when it was not safe to do so and was intoxicated at the time. Jury awarded Plaintiff $113,135, but found him 49% negligent and reduced the award to $57,698.85.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Grant v. Gorr, 01 L 138

Pedestrian In Store Parking Lot Hit By Car

Type of Injury: Back injuries-Lumbar disc herniations at L3-L5
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $60,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff, having just walked out of a store, was pushing a shopping cart in a marked pedestrian crosswalk when defendant’s vehicle allegedly struck and knocked her down. Plaintiff allegedly suffered multiple contusions and disc herniation at L3-L5 as a result of the accident. Plaintiff brought a negligent driving lawsuit against defendant, claiming defendant failed to keep proper lookout and failed to keep her vehicle under control. Defendant admitted her vehicle made contact with the pedestrian, but denied negligence. Several healthcare providers and professionals asserted liens totaling $29,002 on the personal injury claim. Before a jury heard these allegations, the parties settled plaintiff’s claims for $60,000.
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Sury v. Meeks, 05 LK 184

Severe Injury Case Examples

Severe crash injuries may involve traumatic brain injuries, multiple complicated fractures, internal injuries, amputations, and disabling neck and back injuries. Severe car accident victims may sustain multiple serious injuries that prevent them from returning to their pre-accident activities and result in permanent disability.

Cervical Strain, Disc Protrusions from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Back injuries- Spinal nerve; cervical strain and disc protrusions
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $70,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged was driving her vehicle and she came to a stop near an intersection because a police car partially blocked her lane, when a vehicle driven by defendant struck her from behind. Plaintiff contended that she sustained various injuries to her spinal nerves, cervical strain and lumbar disc protrusions as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued defendant for allegedly following too closely and failing to pass on the left. Plaintiff sought relief in excess of $50,000 to cover her alleged losses. Defendant denied the allegations. Parties later came to an agreement wherein plaintiff accepted $70,000 to settle their dispute.
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Lundberg v. Schaibley, 04 LK 07

Rear-End Award for Neck, Shoulder and Knee Injuries

Type of Injury: Neck, shoulder and knee injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $81,986
Case Summary: Plaintiff contended that he was involved in a motor vehicle accident when defendant’s vehicle collided with the rear end of his vehicle. Plaintiff claimed that he sustained aggravation of prior injuries to his neck, left shoulder and left knee as a result of the collision. Plaintiff filed suit, claiming the collision caused him personal injuries and lost earnings. Defendants denied all the allegations and pleaded affirmative defense of comparative negligence. The case went to trial wherein the jury awarded plaintiff a total of $81,986.20 for aggravation of a pre-existing injury, loss of a normal life experience, pain and suffering, and lost earnings.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Kamely v. Adams, 99 L 388

Both Drivers Found At Fault for Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Back injuries-acute cervical/lumbar strain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $84,719
Case Summary: Plaintiff 1 was the driver while Plaintiff 2 was a passenger in a vehicle traveling southbound when they were reportedly involved in a motor vehicle accident. Plaintiff 1 claimed that she suffered acute cervical strain and other injuries as a result of the collision. Plaintiffs sued defendant claiming that her negligent driving caused the collision. The defendant denied liability and filed a counterclaim against plaintiff 1 for contribution and damage to her car. The jury returned a verdict for Plaintiff 1 but found her 45% negligent. The jury awarded her a total of $154,033.80, which was reduced by her percentage of negligence to $84,718.59.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Ignjatovich v. Kuzniewicz, 02 L 003085

Vehicle Driver Liable for Rear-Ending Motorcyclist

Type of Injury: Knee, foot and shoulder injuries
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $104,856
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed he drove a motorcycle while defendant drove her vehicle in the same direction and subsequently into the rear of plaintiff’s motorcycle. Plaintiff sued defendant for negligent and careless driving, following too closely and failure to avoid the collision. Plaintiff reportedly suffered aggravation of injuries prior to the accident, including his knee, injuries to his left foot and left shoulder and a cut on his head. Defendant admitted her vehicle made contact with the plaintiff’s motorcycle, but denied any wrongdoing. Jury found in favor of plaintiff in $104,856.15 for past and future pain and suffering, past and future disability, medical expenses and the value of his lost time.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Tidd v. McReynolds, 03 L 12660

Pedestrian Brain Injury from Getting Hit by Car

Type of Injury: Head injury-brain injury; right leg and right arm injuries-multiple fractures
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $140,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was crossing a street while defendant was driving a motor vehicle owned by co-defendant when his motor vehicle collided with plaintiff at an intersection. Plaintiff allegedly suffered traumatic brain injury, multiple fractures in her right leg and right arm. Plaintiff filed a complaint alleging defendant’s negligent and wanton operation of his motor vehicle was the direct cause of her injuries. Defendants denied liability. Co-defendant claimed several affirmative defenses including comparative negligence, contributory negligence, and lack of liability for public employees unless the act was willful and wanton. The jury returned a verdict for plaintiff, but reduced the award due to plaintiff’s contributory negligence.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Turner v. City of Chicago, 01L9494

Rear-End Head and Face Injury Case Settled

Type of Injury: Head injuries-concussion; face laceration and bruises
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $145,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed she was driving her vehicle and came to a stop at an intersection when a truck driven by defendant and owned by a food service company collided with her vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered a concussion and deep laceration wounds and bruises to her face as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendants for alleged negligent driving. Co-defendant admitted there was a collision, but denied negligence and objected to the plaintiff’s claim that defendant drove as an employee of co-defendant or within the scope of his employment at the time of the collision. Parties later settled for $145,000.
Location: Kane County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Cabrera v. Monroe, 04 L 307

Pedestrian Run Over by Taxicab, Shared Fault

Type of Injury: Unspecified injuries to head, body and limbs
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $167,741
Case Summary: Defendant reportedly was operating a taxicab at an intersection when the taxi allegedly struck plaintiff as he crossed the street. Plaintiff allegedly suffered Unspecified injuries to his head, body and limbs as a result of the accident. Plaintiff sued defendants, alleging negligence. He argued that the defendants carelessly operated, managed, maintained and controlled the taxicab which acts caused the accident and the plaintiff’s alleged injuries. Defendants denied the allegations and asserted that plaintiff was negligent in the accident. The jury returned a verdict in plaintiff’s favor in the amount of $222,973.55. Jury also found that Plaintiff contributed 28% to his injuries and accordingly reduced the award to $167,740.95.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Rossini v. Zakariya, 02 L 013451

Facial Scarring From Side-Impact Collison

Type of Injury: Face injuries-Scarring
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $175,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff allegedly drove his truck in an eastward direction when defendant’s vehicle, headed north collided with the truck. Plaintiff allegedly sustained unsightly scars to his face as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a negligent driving lawsuit against defendant. The plaintiff accused the defendant of running a stop sign and sought compensation in excess of $100,000 to cover his alleged damages. Plaintiff admitted contact between the truck and his vehicle but denied negligence, and stated that he was not responsible for plaintiff’s alleged injuries. Jury awarded the plaintiff $175,000, assessing $120,000 for past and future pain and suffering and $55,000 for loss of a normal life.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Campbell v. Weiffenbach, 03 L 636

Spinal Stenosis with Surgery After T-Bone Crash

Type of Injury: Back injury-spinal stenosis
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $176,893
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that she was a passenger in defendant 1’s vehicle while defendant 2 was operating a vehicle as an agent for defendant 3. The two vehicles reportedly collided at an intersection. Plaintiff contended that she suffered a spinal stenosis that required surgery. Plaintiff sued defendants alleging both drivers were negligent. Defendant 1 filed a cross-complaint against defendant 2 and defendant 3 for property damage and injuries while defendant 2 and defendant 3 brought a counterclaim against defendant 1 seeking contribution. Jury found for plaintiff 1 only and awarded her $15,000 for disfigurement, $131,893.31 for past medical expenses, and $30,000 for pain and suffering.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Seaborg v. Connie’s Pizza, 00 L 235

Brain Trauma from High-Impact Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Head injuries-traumatic brain damage
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $192,386
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was traveling eastbound near an intersection when her vehicle was struck from the rear by a truck owned and operated by defendants. Plaintiff’s vehicle was propelled into the vehicle in front of her and then into a utility pole. Plaintiff reportedly suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of the accident. Plaintiff brought a lawsuit against defendants for negligence. The defendants stipulated to the facts of the case and admitted liability, leaving the jury to decide damages. The jury awarded the plaintiff $192,386 for medical expenses, lost earnings, aggravation of a pre-existing condition, pain and suffering, loss of normal life, rental vehicle expense and property damage.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Wallender v. Andruscavage, 02L 006044

Red Light Runner T-Bones Plaintiff, Multiple Injuries

Type of Injury: Neck injury-strains and sprains to her cervical spine and an exacerbation of degenerative disc disease at cervical intervertebral discs C4-5, C5-6 and C6-7; Others-a sprain to her right rotator cuff, a whiplash injury and a labrum tear of the right shoulder
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $250,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was traveling in her car. She stopped for a red light at an intersection. Upon the light turning green, she proceeded through the intersection when the passenger’s side of the vehicle was struck by a car driven by defendant, who failed to stop for the red light. Defendant admitted negligence in the accident, disputing the case on the proximate cause of the injuries, as well as the damages. Following the accident, plaintiff was taken by ambulance to a Hospital, where she was diagnosed with strains and sprains to her cervical spine and a sprain to her right rotator cuff. She underwent MRIs and was diagnosed with a whiplash injury, a labrum tear of the right shoulder and an exacerbation of degenerative disc disease at cervical intervertebral discs C4-5, C5-6 and C6-7. Jury awarded plaintiff $250,000.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Kopfman v. Santoyo, 2015-L-011507

Permanent Knee and Back Injuries from Rear-End Crash

Type of Injury: Thigh injury-Fractured patella in right knee; Back injuries-cervical strain
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $355,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was driving southbound when defendant, driving in the same direction collided with plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered permanent injuries including a fractured patella causing the extensor mechanism of her right knee to no longer function properly. The plaintiff sued defendant alleging that defendant’s negligent driving caused her injuries and seeking damages in excess of $30,000. The defendant denied liability asserting that plaintiff was comparatively negligent. The jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiff and awarded her damages of $355,000 being $60,000.00 for medical expenses; $175,000.00 for pain and suffering; $75,000.00 for loss of normal life expectancy and $15,000.00 for disfigurement.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Hansen v. Warner, 02 L 001972

Spinal Stenosis, Surgery From Rear-End Collision

Type of Injury: Back Injury-Spinal stenosis
Type of Accident: Rear-end
Award/Settlement Amount: $362,954
Case Summary: Plaintiff claimed his vehicle was stopped at the stop light when defendant drove into the rear of plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff contended that he suffered spinal stenosis and underwent corrective surgery as a result of the collision. Plaintiff sued defendant for alleged negligent driving, including driving too fast for the traffic conditions, failing to equip his vehicle with adequate brakes and failing to slow down to avoid a collision. Defendants denied liability. Jury found in favor of the plaintiff for $362,953.80, plus costs for past and future pain and suffering, past and future disability, medical expenses and lost wages. Judge agreed and entered judgment on the verdict.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Sisco v. Beary Landscape, 03 L 380

Head and Face Injuries, Concussion From Head-On Collision

Type of Injury: Injuries to head and face, post-concussion syndrome, headaches, multiple lacerations, scarring, anxiety and nervousness
Type of Accident: Head-on
Award/Settlement Amount: $440,309
Case Summary: Plaintiff alleged that he was a passenger in a vehicle driven by defendant. Defendant attempted to pass another vehicle driven by co-defendant by crossing over the centerline when defendant’s vehicle struck co-defendant’s vehicle and then careened into a utility pole. Plaintiff said he suffered a concussion and post-concussion syndrome, including headaches. In addition, he was reportedly left with multiple lacerations on his face, and suffered from anxiety and nervousness. Plaintiff sued both defendants for negligent driving. Defendants denied liability. Jury found in favor of plaintiff for $440,309.22 for past and future pain and suffering, past and future loss of a normal life, medical expenses and for disfigurement.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Danguilan v. Sutter, 01 L 015532

Pedestrian Hit By Work Vehicle Suffers Head and Back Injuries

Type of Injury: Head injuries-traumatic brain damage; Back injuries-lumbar and cervical discs injuries; Shoulder injuries-Rotator cuff tear.
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $460,245
Case Summary: Plaintiff, a pedestrian, reportedly was struck by a motor vehicle operated by defendant and owned by Co-defendant at an intersection. Plaintiff claimed she suffered severe injuries including traumatic brain damage, lumbar and cervical discs damage and rotator cuff tear of her left shoulder. Plaintiff sued defendants accused defendant driver of failing to make sure the intersection was clear before making his turn, and for failing to yield the right of way. She also argued that co-defendant employed defendant at the time of the accident, thus making the company responsible for his actions. Defendants denied all allegations. Jury reached a verdict in favor of plaintiff. Jurors awarded the plaintiff $460,244.97.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Freeman v. Herrera, 00 L 691

Brain Injury, Palsy, and Back Pain from Side-Impact Crash

Type of Injury: Head injury-concussion, left-sided sixth cranial nerve palsy, causing partial double vision in his left eye, as well as chronic balance and gait problems, post-concussion syndrome and traumatic brain injury; chronic lower back pain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $900,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff and defendant were operating their respective vehicles on intersecting Streets. Defendant failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection and t-boned plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff was taken by ambulance to a local hospital emergency room, where it was determined that he had suffered a concussion with a brief loss of consciousness. He subsequently presented to a neurologist, who determined that, in addition to concussion, plaintiff suffered left-sided sixth cranial nerve palsy, causing partial double vision in his left eye, as well as chronic balance and gait problems, chronic lower back pain, post-concussion syndrome and traumatic brain injury. Defense admitted liability but maintained that there was no mention of eye movement problems by plaintiff until a month after the accident and the sixth cranial nerve problem was a microvascular palsy unrelated to the underlying accident. Jury awarded plaintiff $900,000.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Pierros v. Sitaras, 2017-L-000415

Plaintiff Loses Leg in Side-Impact Collision

Type of Injury: Leg and hip injuries-amputation of left leg above the knee and fracture of the right femur; Back injuries-cervical strain
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $1,500,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff reportedly was driving westbound when defendant, driving a semi-truck, owned by co-defendant collided with plaintiff’s vehicle. Plaintiff reportedly suffered amputation of his left leg above the knee, fracture of the right femur and cervical strain as a result of the accident. Plaintiff filed a complaint against defendants, alleging that defendant’s negligence in failing to observe plaintiff’s vehicle, failing to yield the right of way caused the collision and his injuries. The defendants admitted a collision occurred but denied liability. Jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff and awarded him $3,000,000 damages. However, the jury also found the plaintiff 50% negligent and reduced the award to $1,500,000.
Location: Will County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: O’Dell v. Moore, 00 L 423

Trucker Liable for Side-Impact Cerebral Hemorrhage, Brain Swelling

Type of Injury: Head injury-a cerebral hemorrhage and a closed head injury, particularly brain swelling
Type of Accident: Side-impact
Award/Settlement Amount: $3,092,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was driving a vehicle northbound. Defendant was driving a truck westbound. At an intersection, defendant did not stop for a red light, and while proceeding through the intersection the front corner of plaintiff’s vehicle hit the front corner of the truck. Defendant then fled from the scene. Plaintiff was transported by ambulance to hospital, where he was admitted for three weeks before being transferred to a rehabilitation institute. He sustained a cerebral hemorrhage and a closed head injury, particularly brain swelling. Following the accident, defendant was arrested and imprisoned for fleeing from the scene. He never appeared for trial, although it was contended by his counsel that he was not the driver of the truck in the accident. Jury found in favor of plaintiff, determining that his damages totaled $3,092,000
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Andrews v. Chavez, 07-L-007742

Pedestrian Suffers Skull/Facial Fractures and Liver Damage

Type of Injury: Head injury-fractures to his skull, fractures to his face, bilateral orbital fractures, bilateral maxillary fractures, a left epidural hematoma, a left orbital hematoma, fractures to an eye socket, facial lacerations, cognitive impairments, physical impairments and emotional problems; Others-a fractured cervical disc at C-7, and damage to his liver.
Type of Accident: Pedestrian
Award/Settlement Amount: $6,250,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was with his wife, photographing a group of individuals modeling as a wedding party. While the party was gathered at the corner of two streets, a defendant waste truck driven by co-defendant drove over the curb of the intersection, striking plaintiff as well as other members of the wedding party. Co-defendant had a BAC of .183, more than twice the legal limit. He was charged criminally for driving under the influence of alcohol, and pleaded guilty to four counts of aggravated DUI. Plaintiff was taken by ambulance to Hospital where he was diagnosed as having sustained multiple injuries, including fractures to his skull. As a result of the severe brain injury he sustained, plaintiff experiences cognitive impairments, physical impairments and emotional problems. Defendant stipulated to liability. Prior to trial, the parties agreed to a $6.25 million settlement.
Location: Cook County, Illinois
Case Name and Docket Number: Chang v. City of Chicago, 11-L-005663

Methodology

We analyzed a group of actual lawsuits filed in Illinois courts by injured car accident victims. All the plaintiffs in our sample group received a payout from a court award or by settling their case before trial.

In cases with more than one plaintiff, the Award/Settlement Amount reflects the highest amount paid to one individual plaintiff. Award amounts also reflect any reductions taken for contributory fault.

Averages are calculated by adding the payouts for a group of cases, then dividing by the number of cases in the group.