Answering Your Medical Malpractice FAQs

Dealing with a medical malpractice-related injury can be overwhelming, and you likely have many questions about how to proceed. Our attorneys at Otubusin & Otubusin have been handling these cases for more than three decades, and we understand that you may feel anxious and overwhelmed.

To put you at ease, we wanted to compile some of the questions we hear the most frequently from our clients so you can focus on the specific circumstances surrounding your case. Here are a few of the questions we hear the most often:

How long do medical malpractice cases take?

It can depend on the circumstances. On average, they can take several months to a few years to resolve. The timeline can depend on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and each party’s willingness to cooperate.

How will my medical treatment get covered while the case is ongoing?

While your case is ongoing, you may be eligible for medical payment coverage through your health insurance or other available resources. Additionally, some health care providers may agree to treat you on a lien basis. That means they can receive payments for your treatment as part of the verdict. However, this can often depend on the circumstances of your case.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In Illinois, you have around two years from the time you were injured or from when you noticed signs of the injury. However, the quicker you file a claim, the better, as delays and other obstacles could impact your chances of pursuing a successful claim. We can ensure that you are taking the proper steps to file your medical malpractice claim and submit it promptly.

Are there any exceptions to the statute of limitations for medical malpractice claims?

There can be exceptions under certain circumstances, like when the injury victim is under 18. The statute of limitations can also be extended if health care providers attempt to conceal the mistake. We can help you determine if these exceptions apply to your situation.

What do I need to file a strong medical malpractice claim in Illinois?

To file a solid claim, you will need to establish:

• That a health care professional violated their duty of care
• That violation of your care was the cause of your injury

Establishing these matters involves gathering comprehensive medical records, professional testimonies and second opinions from other health care professionals in a similar line of work. Our attorneys can work closely with you to compile and present all of these.

How can I increase the chances of having a successful claim?

To increase the chances of a successful claim, it’s essential to:

• Seek immediate medical attention
• Document your injuries and symptoms
• Keep detailed records of all related expenses

Our team will guide you through each step to maximize your claim’s potential.

What can I use my medical malpractice compensation for?

You can use any money you get from your settlement however you like. However, people often use it to cover any additional medical expenses or equipment needed to deal with the short-term or long-term injury they sustained from their malpractice incident. Others may use it to cover lost wages from when they had to take off work to tend to their injury.

How much can I get out of a medical malpractice settlement?

That will depend on the type and severity of your injury. We can help you determine the appropriate amount of compensation for your specific situation and work with the insurance company and other parties involved to ensure that the amount you receive is fair and covers everything you need it to.

What does medical malpractice representation cost?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t have to pay attorney fees unless we win your case. This arrangement allows you to pursue your case without worrying about upfront legal costs.

When is the best time to contact the firm with questions or concerns?

Anytime. As part of our commitment to meeting our clients’ needs, we encourage you to reach out anytime you have questions or concerns surrounding your case. Whether you choose to call, text, or email us, we will get back to you as soon as possible. We understand you are struggling and want to address your worries as quickly as possible. With us, you don’t have to worry about being left hanging; you can call our Chicago-based office anytime at 312-251-1480.

Is there anything I should avoid doing while my case is in progress?

While your case is in progress, we encourage you to avoid discussing details with insurance adjusters or opposing counsel without your attorney present. Refrain from signing any documents or accepting settlement offers without our review. Additionally, be cautious about sharing information on social media; the other party could use that against you in your case. If you feel uncertain about these issues, please reach out. We can offer guidance on how to proceed.

How far out of Chicago do you take cases?

While our office is based in Chicago, we take cases across the greater Chicagoland area, which include:

• Cook County
• Dupage County
• Will County
• Lake County
• Kane County

We take court cases in these counties and others across the United States.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation

Now that you have answers to these critical questions, you can start to think more about your specific circumstances. We are dedicated to providing personalized and attentive legal support tailored to your needs. Schedule a free consultation with our experienced attorneys by calling 312-251-1480 or visiting our contact page.