$0 upfront is common in Illinois injury cases, but a bad contingency deal can still cost you 33⅓% to 40% of your recovery plus expenses. Before signing anything, focus on the three factors that usually decide whether your case is strong and whether you even need a lawyer.

1. Proof of who caused it

This is the first filter. Save the Chicago Police crash report, photos, video, witness names, and the other driver's insurance information.

If it was a holiday weekend wreck on the Dan Ryan, Kennedy, I-55, or Lake Shore Drive, look for evidence of drunk driving, speeding, lane changes, or red-light violations. A lawyer is much more valuable when fault is disputed, there are multiple vehicles, or the insurer is already blaming you.

If liability is crystal clear and your injuries were minor, you may not need to hire one.

2. Proof your injuries and losses are real

You need records that connect the crash to your injury: ER records, ambulance reports, discharge papers, follow-up visits, prescriptions, work restrictions, and wage loss proof.

Do not rely on "I was hurt." Insurers pay documents.

If you work long shifts in a Joliet or Will County warehouse or at a South Side meatpacking plant, keep employer incident reports, time records, and any workers' comp paperwork too. A crash or other injury can create overlapping claims, and missing one can cost money.

3. Proof the lawyer is worth the fee

Ask for the written contingency percentage, who pays case costs, whether the fee increases if a lawsuit is filed in Cook County Circuit Court, and who will actually handle the file.

Red flags: pressure to sign immediately, promises of a payout amount, vague answers about expenses, or no discussion of medical liens.

If you already hired someone, Illinois clients can fire a lawyer mid-case. Ask for your file, a copy of the fee contract, and an itemized list of costs before switching.