Best Car Accident Lawyers in Buffalo Grove

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies, you can reach the Buffalo Grove police at 847-459-2560.

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

  To obtain copies of car accident reports, visit in person the Public Records Services at 46 Raupp Boulevard. You can also call the office at (847) 459-2560 or send an email to records@vbg.org. Reports can also be purchased at the Lexis Nexis website.

• Who can be held liable in a ridesharing car accident in Buffalo Grove?

  The Uber or Lyft driver, another car's driver, and the ridesharing company can be held liable for Buffalo Grove car accidents that injured rideshare passengers or another motorist. If the at-fault rideshare driver was offline when the accident happened, compensation may be obtained from his or her own insurance, but if the driver was online, compensation comes from Uber's or Lyft's auto insurance policy. If another driver collides with the rideshare vehicle, claims against the at-fault driver's insurance can be filed. 

• How can a lawyer maximize the financial recovery of a car accident claim in Buffalo Grove?

  By conducting investigations and gathering evidence, lawyers can build a compelling claim to maximize the financial recovery in a car accident case in Buffalo Grove. They can also determine the compensation the victims deserve and protect their rights from lowball settlement offers from insurance companies. A lawyer can file a lawsuit if the insurance company does not offer a fair settlement.

• How much is the minimum liability coverage drivers in Buffalo Grove must carry for protection in car accidents?

  The minimum liability coverage is $25,000 for a person's injury or death, $50,000 for all injuries or death, and $20,000 for property damage. It should compensate the medical bills, property damage costs, and accident-related expenses of drivers, pedestrians, and passengers who suffered injuries and property damage in a car accident in Buffalo Grove.

• Which intersections in Buffalo Grove are dangerous to motorists?

  The Lake Cook Road and Buffalo Grove Road intersection has the highest number of crashes in the village, according to the Buffalo Grove Police Traffic Unit. This is because the intersection is the busiest in the village. The intersections of Lake Cook Road and McHenry Road and Arlington Heights Road are also high crash areas, as are the intersections of Dundee Road and Buffalo Grove Road and McHenry Road and Arlington Heights Road.

• Whose liability insurance for property damage can be used after a car accident in Buffalo Grove?

  Your own insurance coverage can be used after a car accident in Buffalo Grove because you can have your car fixed quickly. If you file a property damage claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company, it will take some time because the insurance company still has to conduct an investigation and decide whether they will accept the liability. This process can take weeks, or sometimes even months.

• 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.