Our Illinois accident attorneys walk you through personal injury litigation and offer a step-by-step guide. No fee unless we win.Illinois state law says that victims have two years from the date an accident occurs to file a personal injury lawsuit against an alleged negligent party. Indicate name, address, and telephone number of employer: 22. Generally, in Illinois civil law (i.e. A personal injury case), there is a two-year time limit imposed for filing a personal injury claim. The personal injury claim process in Chicago, Illinois begins with reporting an accident and seeing a doctor right away. How Long Do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim in Illinois? Personal injury cases aim to provide financial recovery for damages such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. You must comply with all requirements set forth in the Illinois Code of Civil Procedure to file a personal injury claim.