Nerve Damage Lawyers in Illinois

Attorneys for Victims of Nerve Injuries from Car Accidents, Motorcycle Accidents, and Slip and Falls

Nerve damage is a serious and often life-changing consequence of many personal injury accidents. Whether caused by a car crash, slip and fall, workplace accident, or medical malpractice, nerve injuries can result in chronic pain, loss of function, and permanent disability. For many victims, the physical, emotional, and financial toll of nerve damage can be overwhelming.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we represent individuals across Illinois who have suffered nerve damage due to someone else’s negligence. We help victims of nerve damage after an accident get the compensation they deserve so they can focus on their treatment and recovery.

What Is Nerve Damage?

Nerve damage occurs when the body’s nervous system is disrupted due to trauma, compression, or severing of nerves. The nervous system is divided into two parts:

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Includes the brain and spinal cord
• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): Includes all other nerves branching from the CNS to the rest of the body

Most personal injury-related nerve damage affects the peripheral nervous system and is referred to as peripheral neuropathy. These injuries can impair sensation, motor control, or autonomic function.

Types of Nerve Injuries in Personal Injury Cases

Nerve injuries are classified by severity and mechanism. According to the Seddon Classification and Sunderland Classification, there are three main types of nerve damage:

1. Neurapraxia

• Temporary loss of nerve function without structural damage
• Usually resolves in weeks to months
• Often caused by compression or mild trauma
• Example: “stinger” or “burner” injury in a car accident

2. Axonotmesis

• Damage to the nerve fibers (axons) with preserved connective tissue
• Can cause prolonged weakness or paralysis
• Recovery is possible but slower, often requiring physical therapy

3. Neurotmesis

• Complete severance of the nerve and surrounding tissues
• Often permanent without surgical repair
• May require nerve grafting or tendon transfers
• Associated with catastrophic injuries such as crush injuries or deep lacerations

Common Causes of Nerve Damage in Personal Injury Cases

Nerve damage can occur in nearly any type of accident. Some of the most common scenarios we see at our firm include:

1. Car Accidents

• Whiplash injuries can damage cervical spinal nerves
• Blunt trauma to the extremities may injure the radial, ulnar, or peroneal nerves
• Airbag deployment can cause brachial plexus injuries

2. Slip and Fall Accidents

• Falls can lead to nerve compression from herniated discs or bone fractures
• Hip or pelvic trauma may affect the sciatic nerve

3. Workplace Injuries

• Repetitive stress (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome)
• Heavy lifting injuries leading to lumbar disc herniation
• Crush injuries involving machinery or tools

4. Medical Malpractice

• Surgical errors can cause nerve severance or improper placement of hardware
• Anesthesia errors (e.g., spinal anesthesia) may result in permanent nerve damage
• Delayed diagnosis of compartment syndrome can lead to irreversible nerve loss

5. Dog Bites or Animal Attacks

• Deep bites can lacerate nerves in the hands, arms, or legs
• May require microsurgical repair and extensive rehabilitation

Statistics on Nerve Damage and Personal Injury

Nerve injuries are more common than many people realize.

• According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, over 20 million people in the U.S. suffer from peripheral nerve damage.
• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that 5% of trauma patients experience peripheral nerve injuries.
• A study published in Injury found that 6.8% of car accident victims presented with acute peripheral nerve injuries, many requiring surgical intervention.
• Brachial plexus injuries occur in approximately 1.2 per 100,000 people annually, often due to shoulder trauma in motorcycle or car accidents.

Symptoms of Nerve Damage

Nerve damage symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms of nerve damage include:

• Numbness or tingling (paresthesia)
• Sharp or burning pain
• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Sensitivity to touch or temperature
• Muscle atrophy (wasting)

These symptoms can affect a person’s ability to work, perform household tasks, and enjoy hobbies or exercise. In severe cases, nerve damage can result in permanent disability.

Diagnosing and Treating Nerve Injuries

Diagnosis:

• MRI or CT scans: to identify structural damage
• Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG): to evaluate nerve function
• Ultrasound imaging: to detect nerve entrapment or scarring

Treatment:

• Physical therapy and occupational therapy
• Pain management (including medications and injections)
• Surgical intervention such as:
  • Nerve decompression
  • Nerve repair or grafting
  • Tendon or muscle transfers
• Assistive devices like braces or splints
• Long-term rehabilitation

Legal Compensation for Nerve Damage in Illinois

When nerve damage is caused by another party’s negligence, the injured person may be entitled to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. Under Illinois law, damages can include:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Cost of assistive devices or home modifications

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of normal life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we work closely with medical experts, life care planners, and economists to quantify the full impact of a nerve injury. We also document the human toll – how the injury affects your daily life, relationships, career, and mental health.

Proving Liability in Nerve Damage Cases

To recover compensation, the plaintiff must prove the following elements of negligence:

1. Duty of Care: The defendant had a legal obligation to act safely
2. Breach of Duty: The defendant failed to meet that obligation
3. Causation: The breach directly caused the nerve injury
4. Damages: The injury resulted in financial and personal harm

For example, in a car accident case, we may use:

• Traffic camera footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Police reports
• Accident reconstruction experts
• Medical records showing a causal link between the crash and the nerve injury

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Nerve Injury Case?

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the complexity and seriousness of nerve injury cases. Our attorneys are committed to helping victims recover the compensation they need to move forward with their lives.

Here’s why clients across Illinois trust us:

• Experienced Legal Team – We handle complex injury claims with medical and legal sophistication
• Personal Attention – You are more than just a case file to us
• Proven Results – Millions recovered for clients with nerve damage and other catastrophic injuries
• No Fee Unless We Win – We work on a contingency basis, so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation

“Nerve injuries can be devastating and long-lasting. Victims often need more than just surgery—they need legal support, financial recovery, and an advocate who truly understands what they’re going through.” — John J. Malm, Naperville personal injury attorney

What to Do If You Suspect Nerve Damage After an Injury

If you believe you’ve suffered nerve damage due to an accident, follow these steps:

1. Seek immediate medical care – Don’t delay diagnosis or treatment
2. Follow all medical advice and therapy
3. Document your symptoms and limitations
4. Keep track of all medical bills, lost income, and out-of-pocket expenses
5. Consult with an experienced Illinois personal injury attorney

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Nerve Damage

How long does nerve damage take to heal?

It depends on the severity. Minor injuries (neurapraxia) may heal in weeks, while severe injuries (neurotmesis) may take months or require surgery and result in permanent impairment.

Can nerve damage be permanent?

Yes. If a nerve is completely severed or severely compressed for a long time, the damage may be irreversible.

How much is a nerve damage claim worth?

Settlements vary depending on the injury’s severity, medical costs, lost income, and long-term disability. Claims may range from tens of thousands to over a million dollars in severe cases.

Do I need a lawyer for a nerve injury claim?

Yes. Nerve injury cases are medically complex and often undervalued by insurance companies. A personal injury attorney can help you build a strong case and pursue full compensation.

Contact the Top-Rated Illinois Personal Injury Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has suffered nerve damage in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. At John J. Malm & Associates, we are ready to listen to your story and fight for your recovery.

Call 844-MALMLAW or(630) 527-4177 to schedule your free consultation, or visit www.malmlegal.com to learn more. Proudly serving Naperville, Chicago, Oak Brook, Wheaton, Joliet, and the surrounding areas.