The roadways in Chicago, IL, are known for their heavy traffic and aggressive drivers. These factors make car accidents an unfortunately common occurrence. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in the Chicago area, it’s natural to have questions. You will probably wonder what to do next.
At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions. We hope these answers will help guide you through the aftermath of a car accident in Chicago, Illinois, and our Chicago car accident attorneys are here for you every step of the way. To learn more, contact our Chicago car accident attorneys for a free consultation at (312) 635-5400.
How Can Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers Help After a Car Accident in Chicago?
The Chicago personal injury lawyers at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers have 35 years of combined experience helping accident victims like you.
When you hire our Chicago car accident attorneys, you can expect us to do the following:
- Thoroughly investigate your claim
- Discuss your options
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Negotiate for a settlement
- Go to trial if a fair agreement cannot be reached
Contact our law office in Chicago, IL, to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Chicago personal injury attorney.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident in Chicago?
First, remain calm and stay at the scene. If possible, call 911 to report the accident. You should also request medical assistance if necessary. Law enforcement will also file a police report. This report is crucial for insurance claims and legal actions.
Under Illinois law, you must also report the accident to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) if:
- The accident caused at least $1,500 in property damage
- There were injuries or fatalities
If you’re able, you should also:
- Check on other parties involved, but avoid admitting fault
- Exchange contact and insurance information with all drivers
- Gather contact details from any witnesses
- Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
After a car accident, insurance companies may contact you. Avoid providing any recorded statements or signing any documents before consulting with an attorney. An insurance company may attempt to use your words against you or have you accept a settlement amount that will not cover all of your damages. Speak with a Chicago car accident lawyer to protect your legal interests.
Should I Speak to the Insurance Company After a Car Accident in Chicago?
Yes, but you should proceed with caution. You should notify your insurance company about the accident, but it’s wise to consult an attorney before providing detailed information. It would also be wise to have your attorney help you file an insurance claim.
Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce their payout. They sometimes attempt to use seemingly innocent comments against you. Make sure to speak to a skilled attorney at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for help protecting your rights. \
Is It Important to Photograph the Crash Scene After a Chicago Car Accident?
Absolutely. Photos and videos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and injuries can serve as valuable evidence in your car accident case. Additionally, you should keep records of your medical treatments, symptoms, and how the accident impacts your daily life. These records can help strengthen your case.
Our car accident attorneys can assist you in gathering and organizing all the necessary evidence.
How Does Illinois Comparative Negligence Law Affect My Case?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault for an accident. So long as your percentage of fault is less than 51%, you can still recover damages.
If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your responsibility. For instance, if you’re 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are more than 50% at fault, you will be prohibited from recovering any damages.
How Do I Obtain a Chicago Car Accident Report?
A police report is essential for your case. You can obtain a copy of the accident report from the Chicago Police Department online. The fee for retrieving a crash report is $6. If you have trouble, the car accident attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers can also help you obtain a copy of your crash report.
What Is the Deadline for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit in Chicago?
In Illinois, you must file your car accident lawsuit before the two-year statute of limitations expires. If you lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, you still only have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
It is very important to act quickly to preserve your legal rights. If you fail to file within the deadline, you could lose your right to pursue compensation forever.
Who Is Responsible for Paying My Medical Bills After a Chicago Car Accident?
After a car accident, your medical bills may be paid by:
- Your health insurance company
- Your personal funds
- Your own car insurance (if you have medical payments coverage or other coverage)
- The at-fault driver’s insurance company
- The at-fault driver’s personal assets
If your medical bills exceed policy limits, you may need to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional compensation from the at-fault driver. Our experienced car accident attorneys can help you navigate this legal process and pursue appropriate compensation.
Will I Have to Go to Court to Recover Compensation for My Injuries?
Most car accident cases settle before ever going to trial. Insurance companies typically prefer to avoid the uncertainty and expense of a court battle. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, taking your case to court may be necessary.
Our skilled car accident attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers are fully prepared to fight for you in the courtroom. If a trial becomes necessary, we are ready. We have a proven track record in both settlement negotiations and courtroom litigation.
Contact Our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Chicago, IL, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice. At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping accident victims recover the money damages they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Chicago car accident lawyer and get the answers you need.