Best Car Accident Lawyers in Naperville

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Naperville, Illinois?

  The non-emergency number for the Naperville Police Department is 630-420-6666.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Naperville, Illinois?

  Call the Naperville Police Department Records Section at (630) 420-6157 to request a copy of your crash report. Provide the report's number, time, name, and address. A $5 processing fee applies.

• What would you do if you were hurt in a collision in Naperville involving an unattended vehicle?

  If your car hits a parked car or other unattended property, you must stop at the site or as close as practicable and try to find and notify the owner. You must provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number to the owner of the unattended vehicle. If you can't find them, leave a written note attached to the damaged property in a visible location with the same information you would have supplied if you had found them. You must also tell the police of your Naperville accident if it resulted in more than $1,500 in damages.

• How long can you wait to file an accident claim in Naperville?

  The statute of limitations in Illinois is two years for filing injury lawsuits or claims following a car accident in Naperville. In other words, you have two years to present the initial evidence submitted to the court following the negligent or willful act that caused your damage. However, exceptions to the rule apply if the victim suffered from a temporary or permanent legal incapacity. Furthermore, if the victim was still a minor at the time of the accident, the two-year clock does not begin to run until the victim turns 18 years old.

• What causes most car accidents in Naperville?

  According to IDOT crash data, carelessness or human error is Naperville's primary cause of car accidents. Leading causes of accidents include distracted driving, drunk driving, fatigued driving, road rage, speeding, rolling stops, running red lights and stop signs, failing to yield the right of way to other motorists or pedestrians, and vehicle defects.

• Where do Naperville car accidents happen?

  According to information obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) from the Naperville Police Records Department, the following junctions were the most hazardous places to drive in Naperville. These include Route 59/1-88, Route 59/Diehl Road, Route 59/North Aurora, 75th Street/Naper Boulevard, Ogden Avenue/Aurora Avenue, 75th Street/Washington, Ogden/North Aurora/Raymond, Ogden/Naper-Wheaton Road, Ogden/River Road, and Route 59/95th Street.

• Who is responsible for a vehicle accident caused by black ice in Naperville?

  Naperville accidents involving black ice are the fault of the drivers. Your insurance company will probably blame you for your accident. A vehicle should slow down, pull over, or avoid driving on exceptionally slippery and snowy days. Additionally, the driver must ensure that the car is maintained for winter driving. If another driver hits you due to black ice, the motorist may be accountable for your medical bills, lost pay, and other damages. To improve your chances of receiving reasonable compensation, take photos of the accident scene, get the other driver's contact information and insurance information, and consult an attorney.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.