What to do after a Car Accident in Chicago
If you or a family member was injured in a car accident in Chicago, Illinois, the aftermath of the accident can be incredibly overwhelming. The physical pain, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills resulting from your injuries creates tons of stress. Who will pay your bills? How long will you be out of work? How long will it take till you get back to normal? Should you file a lawsuit? You have many questions, and one of the best things you can do is to get answers. This is not a time where you want to be handling this on your own. If you have been injured, you will want to speak to the best accident lawyers in Chicago to help you navigate the complex Illinois auto accident laws and to make sure you are not taken advantage of by the insurance companies.
Who is responsible to pay for the expenses from a car wreck?
Car accidents in Chicago are all too common, with many drivers experiencing at least one accident in their lifetime. Negligence is often the cause of these accidents, whether it’s a driver’s failure to obey traffic laws, distracted driving, or driving under the influence. As a victim, you need the support of an experienced car accident attorney who understands the intricacies of personal injury cases in Illinois and can fight for your rights. And you should not be footing the bill for this accident, especially when it’s somebody else’s fault!
Chicago Accident Lawyers Who Can Help
i-Lawsuit has found the best Chicago car accident attorneys who have the knowledge, skill, and extensive experience to handle a wide range of auto accident cases. From minor fender-benders to severe crashes resulting in catastrophic injuries, our lawyers work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible for your accident are held accountable.
Financial Compensation for Your Accident
The compensation you may be entitled to can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages incurred as a result of the accident. To determine the amount of compensation you deserve, a Chicago auto accident attorney will conduct a thorough investigation of the crash, gathering evidence and working closely with medical professionals to establish the full extent of your injuries. That is required to find out how much your case is worth. Sometimes, these things take months to play out, after you have received all your medical treatments, or the attorney can estimate the total costs of all your medical expenses related to the accident.
Understanding Comparative Negligence in Illinois
Comparative negligence is a legal concept used in personal injury cases, including auto accidents, to determine the degree of fault of each party involved. In Illinois, comparative negligence law states that if multiple parties are found to be responsible for an accident, the damages awarded to the injured party will be reduced based on their percentage of fault.
Here is an example of comparative negligence in an auto accident claim in Illinois:
Suppose that two drivers, A and B, are involved in a car accident at an intersection. Driver A was speeding, while driver B was distracted by a passenger in the car and didn’t see driver A. As a result, the two cars collided, and driver A sustained serious injuries.
After investigating the accident, the court determines that driver A is 90% at fault for the accident because they were speeding and made an illegal lane change, while driver B is 10% at fault for being distracted. If driver B sues driver A for damages, the amount of damages awarded will be reduced by 10%, reflecting driver B’s percentage of fault. For example, if driver B suffered $100,000 in damages, they would only be able to recover $90,000 from driver B because driver A is 10% at fault.
Even if you were partially at fault for the accident in Chicago, you can still sue for damages.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
Navigating the complex legal landscape of personal injury cases can be daunting, but our Chicago car accident attorneys are here to provide guidance, care, and support every step of the way. We know that time is of the essence, and we work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible. Don’t suffer in silence. If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Chicago, contact i-Lawsuit today for a free consultation. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and put our expertise to work for you, allowing you to focus on your recovery and regain control of your life. Trust our team to fight for justice and secure the compensation you need to move forward after a devastating car accident.
Car Accident FAQs
Question: How do I know if I need a car accident lawyer?
Answer: If you’ve been involved in a car accident resulting in injuries, property damage, or emotional distress, it’s a good idea to consult with a car accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Question: What should I do immediately after a car accident?
Answer: First, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. Call 911 if anyone is injured or if there’s significant property damage. Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers and gather contact information from witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Finally, contact a car accident lawyer to discuss your case.
Question: How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?
Answer: Many car accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. The fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or award. During your initial consultation, be sure to ask the attorney about their fee structure.
Question: How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Illinois?
Answer: In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s important to contact a car accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure evidence is preserved and to give your attorney ample time to build a strong case.
Question: What if the accident was partially my fault?
Answer: Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault in the accident. A car accident lawyer can help determine the degree of fault for all parties involved and work to maximize your potential compensation.
Question: What types of damages can I recover in a car accident case?
Answer: Damages in a car accident case can include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. The specific damages you may recover depend on the circumstances of your case, and a car accident attorney can help you understand what types of compensation you may be entitled to.
Question: How long will my car accident case take to resolve?
Answer: The length of time it takes to resolve a car accident case can vary widely, depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of your injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to settle. Your car accident lawyer will work diligently to resolve your case as quickly as possible while still fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Chicago Areas Served
| Neighborhood | Community area |
| Albany Park | Albany Park |
| Altgeld Gardens | Riverdale |
| Andersonville | Edgewater |
| Arcadia Terrace | West Ridge |
| Archer Heights | Archer Heights |
| Armour Square | Armour Square |
| Ashburn | Ashburn |
| Ashburn Estates | Ashburn |
| Auburn Gresham |
Auburn Gresham
|
| Avalon Park | Avalon Park |
| Avondale | Avondale |
| Avondale Gardens | Irving Park |
| Back of the Yards | New City |
| Belmont Central | Belmont Cragin |
| Belmont Gardens | Hermosa |
| Belmont Heights | Dunning |
| Belmont Terrace | Dunning |
| Beverly | Beverly |
| Beverly View | Ashburn |
| Beverly Woods | Morgan Park |
| Big Oaks | Norwood Park |
| Northalsted “Boystown” | Lake View |
| Bowmanville | Lincoln Square |
| Brainerd |
Washington Heights
|
| Brickyard | Belmont Cragin |
| Bridgeport | Bridgeport |
| Brighton Park | Brighton Park |
| Bronzeville | Douglas |
| Bucktown | Logan Square |
| Budlong Woods | Lincoln Square |
| Buena Park | Uptown |
| Burnside | Burnside |
| Cabrini–Green | Near North Side |
| Calumet Heights |
Calumet Heights
|
| Canaryville | New City |
| Central Station | Near South Side |
| Chatham | Chatham |
| Chicago Lawn | Chicago Lawn |
| Chinatown | Armour Square |
| Chrysler Village | Clearing |
| Clarendon Park | Uptown |
| Clearing East | Clearing |
| Clearing West | Clearing |
| Cottage Grove Heights | Pullman |
| Cragin | Belmont Cragin |
| Crestline | Ashburn |
| Dearborn Homes | Douglas |
| Dearborn Park | Near South Side |
| Douglas Park | North Lawndale |
| Dunning | Dunning |
| East Beverly | Beverly |
| East Chatham | Chatham |
| East Garfield Park |
East Garfield Park
|
| East Hyde Park | Hyde Park |
| East Pilsen |
Lower West Side
|
| East Side | East Side |
| East Village | West Town |
| Eden Green | Riverdale |
| Edgebrook | Forest Glen |
| Edgewater | Edgewater |
| Edgewater Beach | Edgewater |
| Edgewater Glen | Edgewater |
| Edison Park | Edison Park |
| Englewood | Englewood |
| Fernwood | Roseland |
| Fifth City |
East Garfield Park
|
| Ford City | West Lawn |
| Forest Glen | Forest Glen |
| Fuller Park | Fuller Park |
| Fulton River District | Near West Side |
| Gage Park | Gage Park |
| Galewood | Austin |
| The Gap | Douglas |
| Garfield Ridge | Garfield Ridge |
| Gladstone Park | Jefferson Park |
| Gold Coast | Near North Side |
| Golden Gate | Riverdale |
| Goose Island | Near North Side |
| Graceland West | Lake View |
| Grand Boulevard |
Grand Boulevard
|
| Grand Crossing |
Greater Grand Crossing
|
| Greater Grand Crossing |
Greater Grand Crossing
|
| Greektown | Near West Side |
| Gresham |
Auburn Gresham
|
| Groveland Park | Douglas |
| Hamilton Park | Englewood |
| Hanson Park | Belmont Cragin |
| Heart of Chicago |
Lower West Side
|
| Hegewisch | Hegewisch |
| Hermosa | Hermosa |
| Hollywood Park | North Park |
| Homan Square | North Lawndale |
| Humboldt Park | Humboldt Park |
| Hyde Park | Hyde Park |
| Illinois Medical District | Near West Side |
| Irving Park | Irving Park |
| Irving Woods | Dunning |
| The Island | Austin |
| Jackowo | Avondale |
| Jackson Park Highlands | South Shore |
| Jefferson Park | Jefferson Park |
| K-Town | North Lawndale |
| Kelvyn Park | Hermosa |
| Kennedy Park | Morgan Park |
| Kensington | Roseland |
| Kenwood | Kenwood |
| Kilbourn Park | Irving Park |
| Kosciuszko Park | Logan Square |
| Lake Meadows | Douglas |
| Lake View | Lake View |
| Lakeview (East) | Lake View |
| Lakewood / Balmoral | Edgewater |
| LeClaire Courts | Garfield Ridge |
| Legends South (Robert Taylor Homes) |
Grand Boulevard
|
| Lilydale | Roseland |
| Lincoln Park | Lincoln Park |
| Lincoln Square | Lincoln Square |
| Lithuanian Plaza | Chicago Lawn |
| Little Italy | Near West Side |
| Little Village | South Lawndale |
| Logan Square | Logan Square |
| Longwood Manor |
Washington Heights
|
| The Loop | The Loop |
| Lower West Side |
Lower West Side
|
| Loyola | Rogers Park |
| Magnificent Mile | Near North Side |
| Margate Park | Uptown |
| Marquette Park | Chicago Lawn |
| Marshall Square | South Lawndale |
| Marynook | Avalon Park |
| Mayfair | Albany Park |
| McKinley Park | McKinley Park |
| Merchant Park | Irving Park |
| Montclare | Montclare |
| Morgan Park | Morgan Park |
| Mount Greenwood |
Mount Greenwood
|
| Museum Campus | Near South Side |
| New Eastside | The Loop |
| Near North Side | Near North Side |
| Near West Side | Near West Side |
| New Chinatown | Uptown |
| New City | New City |
| Noble Square | West Town |
| North Austin | Austin |
| North Center | North Center |
| North Halsted | Lake View |
| North Kenwood | Kenwood |
| North Lawndale | North Lawndale |
| North Mayfair | Albany Park |
| North Park | North Park |
| Nortown | West Ridge |
| Norwood Park East | Norwood Park |
| Norwood Park West | Norwood Park |
| Oakland | Oakland |
| O’Hare | O’Hare |
| Old Edgebrook | Forest Glen |
| Old Irving Park | Irving Park |
| Old Norwood | Norwood Park |
| Old Town | Near North Side |
| Old Town Triangle | Lincoln Park |
| Oriole Park | Norwood Park |
| Palmer Square | Logan Square |
| Park Manor |
Greater Grand Crossing
|
| Park West | Lincoln Park |
| Parkview | Ashburn |
| Peterson Park | West Ridge |
| Pill Hill |
Calumet Heights
|
| Pilsen |
Lower West Side
|
| Polish Downtown |
West Town, Logan Square
|
| Polish Village |
Avondale, Irving Park
|
| Portage Park | Portage Park |
| Prairie Avenue Historic District | Near South Side |
| Prairie Shores | Douglas |
| Princeton Park | Roseland |
| Printer’s Row | The Loop |
| Pulaski Park | West Town |
| Pullman | Pullman |
| Ranch Triangle | Lincoln Park |
| Ravenswood | Lincoln Square |
| Ravenswood Gardens | Lincoln Square |
| Ravenswood Manor | Albany Park |
| River North | Near North Side |
| River West | West Town |
| River’s Edge | North Park |
| Riverdale | Riverdale |
| Rogers Park | Rogers Park |
| Roscoe Village | North Center |
| Rosehill | West Ridge |
| Roseland | Roseland |
| Rosemoor | Roseland |
| St. Ben’s | North Center |
| Sauganash | Forest Glen |
| Schorsch Forest View | O’Hare |
| Schorsch Village | Dunning |
| Scottsdale | Ashburn |
| Sheffield Neighbors | Lincoln Park |
| Sheridan Park | Uptown |
| Sheridan Station Corridor | Lakeview |
| Sleepy Hollow | Garfield Ridge |
| Smith Park | West Town |
| South Austin | Austin |
| South Chicago | South Chicago |
| South Commons | Douglas |
| South Deering | South Deering |
| South East Ravenswood | Lake View |
| South Edgebrook | Forest Glen |
| South Lawndale | South Lawndale |
| South Loop | The Loop |
| South Shore | South Shore |
| Stateway Gardens | Douglas |
| Stony Island Park | Avalon Park |
| Streeterville | Near North Side |
| Talley’s Corner |
Mount Greenwood
|
| Tri-Taylor | Near West Side |
| Ukrainian Village | West Town |
| Union Ridge | Norwood Park |
| University Village | Near West Side |
| Uptown | Uptown |
| The Villa | Irving Park |
| Vittum Park | Garfield Ridge |
| Wacławowo | Avondale |
| Washington Heights |
Washington Heights
|
| Washington Park |
Washington Park
|
| Wentworth Gardens | Armour Square |
| West Beverly | Beverly |
| West Chatham | Chatham |
| West Chesterfield |
Chatham, Roseland
|
| West DePaul | Lincoln Park |
| West Elsdon | West Elsdon |
| West Englewood |
West Englewood
|
| West Garfield Park |
West Garfield Park
|
| West Humboldt Park |
Austin, Humboldt Park
|
| Lakeview (West) | Lake View |
| West Lawn | West Lawn |
| West Loop | Near West Side |
| West Morgan Park | Morgan Park |
| West Pullman | West Pullman |
| West Ridge | West Ridge |
| West Rogers Park | West Ridge |
| West Town | West Town |
| West Woodlawn | Woodlawn |
| Wicker Park | West Town |
| Wildwood | Forest Glen |
| Woodlawn | Woodlawn |
| Wrightwood | Ashburn |
| Wrightwood Neighbors | Lincoln Park |
| Wrigleyville | Lake View |