When people think of car accidents, they often picture two vehicles colliding. That’s not always what happens, however. Single-vehicle accidents in Chicago, IL, occur all too often, leaving those involved with questions about whether they can file claims to recover losses.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of this type of collision, speaking with an attorney is vital. At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, our team of Chicago car accident lawyers has over 35 years of combined experience fighting for injured clients just like you. Contact us at (312) 635-5400 to schedule a free consultation.
Our Chicago personal injury attorneys can walk you through your options and help you obtain the compensation you deserve for what you’ve suffered. Here’s what you need to know about these types of accidents in Chicago, Illinois, and what the legal landscape surrounding them looks like.
How Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Single-Vehicle Accident in Chicago, IL
Filing a personal injury claim is never simple, but it can be doubly so when there isn’t an obvious other party to hold liable. If you’ve sustained injuries, property damage, and other losses, it’s important to speak with a Chicago car accident attorney so that you have a clear understanding of your legal options.
At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, our team of Chicago personal injury lawyers can help by:
- Evaluating your claim
- Investigating how the single-vehicle accident occurred
- Gathering evidence to demonstrate that you deserve compensation
- Calculating your economic and non-economic damages
- Negotiating with insurance companies to obtain a settlement
- Litigating, if settling isn’t possible
We are committed to providing unmatched support to our clients throughout Illinois, and this commitment is evident in the $250 million in settlements and jury awards we’ve obtained for them over the years. In complex cases, such as single-vehicle collisions, you need guidance rooted in experience. Contact our team to schedule a free consultation today.
Common Causes of Single-Vehicle Accidents in Chicago
Chicago is known for its difficult winter weather. Ice or snow on the road can significantly increase the likelihood of losing control of a car. Drivers can increase that risk, too, if they’re speeding or distracted.
Other driver errors that could lead someone to lose control of the car, even in normal weather, include intoxicated driving and fatigued driving. Both of these problems cause drivers to experience diminished reflexes and coordination.
Potholes and other road defects can also cause these crashes. Your car may hit the pothole with too much force, pushing you onto another lane or even off the road.
Similarly, animal crossings can result in single-vehicle accidents. Even in a city like Chicago, you may encounter deer. To avoid hitting the animal, you may swerve abruptly, which could launch you into poles, dividers, trees, and any other nearby structure.
The same can occur if you try to avoid other obstacles. Jaywalking pedestrians or other vehicles could force you off the road, resulting in a single-vehicle crash.
What Types of Damages Are Available After a Single-Vehicle Accident in Chicago?
If you were injured in a single-vehicle accident in Chicago, you may still be eligible for compensation, even if no other driver was directly involved. Depending on the facts of your case, another party (such as a manufacturer, road maintenance agency, or property owner) may be liable for your injuries.
Personal injury compensation in Illinois typically falls into two broad categories: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages compensate for financial losses, including:
- Medical bills (emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation)
- Future medical expenses and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages from time away from work
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Property damage (such as vehicle repair or replacement)
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to your injury
Non-economic damages address the physical and emotional toll of the accident, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
- Permanent disability or impairment
In rare cases, punitive damages may be available. These are intended to punish the defendant for especially reckless or intentional misconduct, such as a vehicle manufacturer knowingly releasing a product that is dangerously defective. Your attorney can evaluate whether your situation qualifies.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Single-Vehicle Accident in Illinois?
In most cases, Illinois usually gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit under the state’s statute of limitations. Failing to file your claim within this timeframe could mean losing your right to recover compensation, no matter how strong your case might be. That’s why it’s crucial to act quickly and consult a lawyer as soon as possible after your wreck.
Contact Our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you have been in a single-vehicle crash in Chicago and suffered injuries, navigating the claims process can feel daunting. Because there may not be an obvious liable party, the next step you should take is to hire a strong team of attorneys.
At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, we provide the comprehensive representation you deserve to help you get your life back on track after an accident. Contact our seasoned team of Chicago car accident lawyers to schedule a free case assessment today.