Best Car Accident Lawyers in Oak Park

FAQs

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

  Oak Park Police Department's non-emergency line is 708-386-3800. Residents can also email the department at police@oak-park.us.

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

  To obtain an Illinois Traffic Crash Report, write to the Oak Park Police Department's records division at 123 Madison Street.

• What are the leading causes of auto accidents in Oak Park?

  Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Oak Park, and it can take the form of talking on the phone, texting, eating, applying makeup, taking selfies, or daydreaming. Other primary causes include speeding, driving while intoxicated, driving while fatigued, and failing to use turn signals. Collisions can also be caused by bad weather and faulty car parts.

• What should you do after an Oak Park car accident?

  If you are involved in an Oak Park car accident, you should call 911 right away. You should also seek medical attention and file a police report. Additionally, gather your thoughts and take notes. Contact a car accident lawyer for assistance in investigating your case and obtaining evidence to prove liability. Your attorney will handle all negotiations with your insurance company in order to obtain the maximum compensation on your behalf.

• Is an unlicensed driver always to blame for a car accident in Oak Park?

  Illinois follows a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents, so unlicensed drivers are not always to blame for collisions in Oak Park. If you've been in an accident with an unlicensed driver, you should seek medical care if you've been injured and consult with a car accident lawyer who can explain your legal options. Your attorney must prove that the unlicensed driver's actions directly led to the crash and your injuries.

• How do you obtain camera footage following an Oak Park car accident?

  Seek the assistance of an Oak Park car accident attorney in obtaining video camera footage that may have captured the crash. Traffic cameras, police dash cameras, business surveillance cameras, home surveillance cameras, and parking lot cameras are examples of video sources. Your lawyer will ensure that any potential camera footage is saved and preserved so that it can be used as evidence in your favor. Since 2013, traffic cameras have been installed at numerous intersections and residential streets across the city.

• Are the roads in Oak Park dangerous for pedestrians?

  The Active Transportation Alliance once named Oak Park one of the most hazardous suburban municipalities for pedestrians and cyclists trying to cross roads in the state. In an article by Carrol Smith, she shared a personal experience when a "driver looked straight ahead without watching for pedestrians at all." In a separate incident, a pedestrian was rushed to Rush Oak Park Hospital after being struck by a parked car that was hit by a drunk driver.

• 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.