Car Accident Attorney in Illinois

How Can a Car Accident Lawyer Help?

The aftermath of an accident can take years to recover from—emotionally, physically, and financially. Trying to recover compensation for your losses through a personal injury claim is one way to regain your footing. However, the process can be complicated and stressful even when you aren’t dealing with serious injuries. A car accident lawyer takes on the legal process so you can focus on recovering.

Your lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident to establish negligence and determine all liable parties
• Gather evidence to support your car accident claim
• File all the necessary paperwork
• Handle all communications with the parties involved
• Negotiate with the insurance company
• Answer your questions and keep you updated on your case’s progress
• Advise you on any settlement offers you receive
• Represent you in court when necessary

The Goldwater Law Firm is one of the country’s most widely recognized law firms. We have strategic partnerships with some of the largest, most successful law firms nationwide and can connect you to a car accident lawyer near you.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a Car Accident?

Car accidents can cause catastrophic injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, burns, lacerations, traumatic brain injuries, internal organ damage, and other serious injuries. The lasting effects of these injuries can range from surgeries to lifelong medical needs and permanent disabilities. Recovering is often a long and expensive process.

Fair compensation for a car accident caused by a negligent driver should account for all your losses and not just immediate needs. Your personal injury attorney may be able to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses for both current and future medical needs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Property damage, such as the repair or replacement of your vehicle
• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Your lawyer will carefully examine your losses so they can advocate for you to receive the maximum compensation you may qualify for.

How Will My Attorney Prove Negligence After a Car Accident?

In injury claims, your lawyer must show that someone else caused the car accident or was otherwise liable. To do so, they investigate and gather evidence of negligent behavior. In car accidents, negligence may be in the form of:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Failing to yield
• Drunk driving

Liable parties for auto accidents often include other drivers, but in some instances, may also include:

• Government entities, if poorly maintained roads played a role
• Manufacturers, when faulty parts lead to an accident
• Companies, if a commercial vehicle was involved

To establish negligence, your lawyer may gather evidence like:

• Witness statements
• Surveillance videos
• Photos of debris, skid marks, and other physical evidence from the accident scene
• Police reports
• Medical records
• Expert testimony, such as from an accident reconstruction specialist

Gathering evidence should be done promptly, as some may be time-sensitive. Contact The Goldwater Law Firm to get started right away.

What Should You Do After a Car Accident?

In the moments after a crash, it’s essential to focus on your health and safety above all else. However, some additional steps can protect your legal rights once you have handled those immediate needs.

After a motor vehicle accident, you should:

• Seek Medical Attention: If you opt against emergency care, ensure you still follow up with your primary care provider. With a diagnosis, you can start a treatment plan. Your doctor will also be able to link your injuries to the accident.
• Call the Police: Police officers can help secure an accident scene. They will also create a crash report detailing the accident and their observations, which is often vital evidence for your claim.
• Document the Accident: When possible, take photos of the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries you have.
• Follow Through With Your Medical Care: Take your doctor’s advice seriously. If you stop or delay treatment, it may impede your recovery and can be used against you by insurers.
• Contact a Lawyer: Having an auto accident attorney by your side during any questioning from insurance adjusters can protect your legal rights.

The Illinois Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Cases

The statute of limitations governs how long you have to pursue your case. In Illinois, a personal injury lawsuit must typically be filed within two years of the accident. However, there are exceptions to this deadline, so it’s always best to discuss the legal timeline with your attorney.

How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

In most cases, personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This fee system means that you owe nothing upfront. Instead, you only pay your lawyer’s fees if they recover compensation.

Once your settlement is finalized, your lawyer deducts their fees from it. The cost is a percentage that you will have previously agreed to, so there is complete transparency.