Chicago Car Accident Attorney: Get the Justice You Deserve

Table Of Contents: 

• Why a Chicago Car Accident Attorney Matters  

  • Levels of Experience  

  • Negotiation is Key  

  • Experienced Attorneys Understand Your Rights  

• Understanding Illinois Car Accident Laws  

  • Uninsured Motorists  

  • Illinois Is a Fault State  

  • What About My Fault?  

  • Don't Miss Filing Deadlines  

• Common Types of Car Accidents and Legal Options  

  • Protecting Your Rights After a Vehicle Collision  

• How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Chicago  

  • Choosing the Right Lawyer is Critical  

• Conclusion 

Why a Chicago Car Accident Attorney Matters 

Insurance companies are in the business of protecting their profits. While they might seem helpful initially, their primary goal is often to minimize payouts. This can leave you feeling pressured to accept a quick, but potentially unfair, settlement. A Chicago car accident attorney, on the other hand, has your best interests at heart and will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. 

Levels of Experience 

There are many law firms in Chicago, and you might assume they are all relatively equal, but this is untrue. Some attorneys have substantially more experience than others. You want to hire a firm that has recovered millions in settlements for their clients. 

This shows experience and that the firm can handle larger, more complex car accident cases. Just because a lawyer advertises that they are a Chicago car accident attorney does not mean they have as much experience or are as qualified. Always choose a lawyer with a proven track record of success. 

Negotiation is Key 

An experienced Chicago car accident attorney will negotiate with insurance companies and accident attorneys on your behalf. They know the tactics these companies often use to minimize payouts and how to counteract them.  

Remember those facts you were told to gather at the scene? These include getting the other driver's insurance information and contact information from any witnesses. Your attorney will use this information, along with evidence such as police reports and medical records, to build a strong case that supports your claim for full and fair compensation. This is just one example of how a Chicago car accident lawyer can help you after an accident. 

Experienced Attorneys Understand Your Rights 

A skilled Chicago car accident attorney can protect your rights and present a strong defense on your behalf, striving for a fair outcome. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), Cook County saw a total of 156,289 car crashes in 2021 alone. 

With so many accidents happening in Chicago and Cook County, navigating these claims can be incredibly complex. That's why having an experienced legal advocate by your side to guide you through the legal process and advocate for your rights every step of the way is vital.  

Understanding Illinois Car Accident Laws 

Uninsured Motorists 

Another aspect that many people don't consider is the possibility of getting hit by a driver without insurance or one that is underinsured. Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tells us that more than 12% of drivers in the U.S. lack this crucial coverage. It's a distressing thought for sure.   

But this is where having a Chicago car accident attorney really makes a difference. They can help you explore other options, such as filing a claim with your insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. An accident injury claim involving an uninsured or underinsured motorist can be very complicated, so you will want to ensure that you have an experienced professional in your corner. 

Illinois Is a Fault State 

Illinois follows a fault system when it comes to car accidents. This means you'll need to prove the other driver was at fault to receive compensation from their insurance company. A Chicago car accident attorney can investigate the accident and gather evidence like police reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to prove that the other driver was at fault. 

You will likely be emotional after an auto accident, which is why it is crucial to allow your personal injury attorney to handle everything. This lets you focus on your mental and physical health as your attorney deals with insurance adjusters, medical professionals, and anyone else associated with your accident so that you do not have to. 

What About My Fault? 

What if the accident was partly your fault? Don't assume this means you can’t get any compensation at all. Illinois’ modified comparative negligence law still allows you to recover damages in these situations if you're less than 50% at fault for the accident. 

This is a perfect example of why consulting with a Chicago car accident attorney is essential, even if you think the accident was partly your fault. They can analyze the details and determine how much compensation you could receive. They can also advise on whether pursuing a legal claim is in your best interest, even in situations of shared fault. 

Don't Miss Filing Deadlines 

You might be tempted to delay seeking legal help to see if you really "need" it. It's important to remember that there are strict deadlines – known as statutes of limitations – for filing personal injury claims in Illinois. Section 735 ILCS 5/13-202 outlines a two-year limit from the car accident date for personal injury lawsuits and a five-year limit for property damage claims. 

If you wait too long, you could miss the opportunity to seek compensation for your losses, such as lost wages, medical expenses, and future medical expenses. Getting the help of a Chicago car accident attorney as soon as possible ensures that you understand the filing deadlines relevant to your case so you can take the necessary steps to protect your legal rights from the outset. An experienced attorney will be familiar with case law and how it pertains to your case. They can also determine if punitive damages are appropriate. 

Common Types of Car Accidents and Legal Options 

Chicago is a busy city. Sadly, this means car accidents are pretty common.  Some accidents are fender benders, but others are much more serious. Let's look at some typical car accidents that happen in Chicago: 

• Rear-end collisions: These are the most frequent type of accidents in Chicago. They often happen in stop-and-go traffic. 

• Intersection accidents: Many accidents occur at intersections, like T-bone crashes or head-on collisions, because drivers might misjudge the traffic flow. 

• Distracted driving accidents: Using a phone or being distracted while driving is very dangerous and causes a lot of accidents. 

• Drunk driving accidents: Even though there are laws against it, drunk driving still leads to many accidents and injuries. 

• Hit-and-run accidents: If a driver leaves the scene of an accident, it's crucial to contact the police and a lawyer immediately. 

If you've been in any of these accidents, a personal injury lawyer can help you.  They can help you identify who is at fault, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. 

Protecting Your Rights After a Vehicle Collision 

A car accident in Chicago can turn your life upside down.  You might be dealing with injuries, medical bills, and damage to your car. You need to understand your rights after a vehicle collision so no one takes advantage of you. The moments after an accident are crucial. Your actions can impact any future personal injury claim.  This is where having a Chicago car accident attorney on your side can make all the difference.   

An experienced attorney will know how to deal with insurance adjusters and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.  They can also help you navigate the legal system, which can be confusing if you try to handle it alone. Whether you've been in a car accident, truck accident, motorcycle accident, or even a hit-and-run, time is of the essence.   

Evidence can disappear, and witnesses' memories can fade. Don't hesitate to reach out for help.  A free consultation with a Chicago car accident attorney can give you the clarity and guidance you need to move forward.  Remember, you don't have to go through this alone.  

How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer in Chicago 

Finding the right Chicago car accident attorney can feel overwhelming, especially after a stressful event.  It's important to find someone you trust with experience with your type of case. This is someone who will be by your side, fighting for you to get fair compensation for things like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

First, look for a lawyer specializing in personal injury law, particularly those with experience in Chicago. They'll know the local courts and laws. Experience matters too. Find out how long they've been practicing and select a lawyer with a proven track record of success in cases like yours. You'll want someone who knows how to handle insurance companies and fight for the best possible outcome for your situation. 

Don't be afraid to ask about their fees and how they handle payment.  Many personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. Get to understand how their fees work to eliminate surprises later. Communication is key throughout this process.  Choose a lawyer who will clearly explain things, answer your questions, and keep you updated on your case. 

Choosing the Right Lawyer is Critical 

At DJC Law, our team of dedicated attorneys is prepared to be your fierce advocates, standing by your side through each stage of the legal process and ensuring your voice is heard. Seeking legal guidance early allows you to make informed decisions and safeguards your rights during this challenging time. 

Conclusion 

Dealing with a car accident in Chicago is never easy. From managing medical bills and recovering from injuries like brain injury to facing insurance adjusters, it's a stressful time. By having an experienced Chicago car accident attorney by your side, you're taking a proactive step toward protecting your rights and working towards the best possible outcome for your situation.  

Our dedicated legal team will strive tirelessly to guide you through the intricacies of the law, ensuring you feel supported and confident throughout this process. Contact us today for a free consultation.