Chicago Car Accident Lawyers
Chicago Car Accident FAQs
If you have been involved in an injury car accident in Illinois, you probably have a number of questions. The Chicago car accident attorneys at The Bradley Law Firm offer comprehensive consultations to anyone injured in a car accident. It is important that you know what steps you should take following a crash and understand your legal rights and options.
What should I do immediately after an Illinois car accident?
- Exchange Information: You will want the driver’s information and the insurance details of everyone involved in the crash.
- Assess Damages: Take notes on the damage to the vehicles, the injuries sustained in the crash and the positions of the vehicles. The more details you can remember, the more credible your case will be.
- Contact the Authorities: It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident when someone has been hurt without waiting for the authorities. Speaking with police will also create a written record of the accident. Make sure you get them to write down your side of the story regarding the collision. If police do not show up at the accident scene, file a report at the nearest police station.
- Speak to Witnesses: Get the contact information from anyone who may have witnessed the crash.
- Take Photos: If you don’t have a camera handy, use your cell phone to take photos of the scene of the accident, the damage to the vehicles and even your injuries.
- Seek Medical Attention: Many injuries get worse over time if not properly treated. Even if you aren’t sure about the extent of your injuries you should visit a hospital to make sure you are not injured. This will create a record of your injuries and the medical treatment sought.
- Contact an Attorney: Before discussing your case with the insurance companies, discuss it with your attorney, who will look out for your best interests.
What is a personal injury claim?
An Chicago personal injury claim may be filed to hold the at-fault driver responsible for the damages that resulted from a car accident. Medical expenses, lost wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy, pain and suffering -- will all be considered while determining the value of a personal injury claim.
What is my case worth?
Every injury is different and each case must be carefully examined for its value to be determined. Injuries that are long-term or permanent will result in larger settlements. Your case will be compared to similar cases to determine the monetary value of your injuries. An experienced Chicago motorcycle accident attorney will ensure that all hospital expenses, present and future, as well as other monetary damages are considered when reviewing the value of your claim.
How much time do I have to file a claim?
A statute of limitations restricts the amount of time that a victim has to file a claim. Illinois enforces a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims. Once that two-year period is up, victims will no longer be able to pursue compensation for their injuries.
Why do I need a Chicago car accident lawyer?
Dealing with the at-fault driver, his or her insurance company and defense attorneys can be tricky. Insurance companies record conversations in an attempt to obtain admittance of fault. Skilled attorneys will either deal directly with an insurance company for you or they will make sure that you know how to discuss you case. Victims of car accidents have a much better chance of obtaining the full settlement they deserve if they have the assistance of a knowledgeable Chicago car accident lawyer.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Chicago car accident, please contact The Bradley Law Firm to find out more information about how to go about your claim. We have decades of experience and a stellar track record when it comes to representing and obtaining fair compensation for car accident victims.