Best Car Accident Lawyers in Decatur

FAQs

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

  (217) 424‑2711 is the non-emergency contact number for the Decatur police department.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for the accident by filling out a Request for Public Records form or any other written form and sending it to the FOIA officer, City Clerk's office, 1 Gary K. Anderson Plaza, Decatur, IL 62523 on Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also reach them via fax at 217-450-2297 or email them.

• In Decatur, how long after a car accident can you file a claim?

  In Decatur, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. According to Illinois car accident law, proceedings for damages resulting from a person's injury must be filed within two years of the incident. Furthermore, the statute of limitations states that you have two years from the date of fatality to file wrongful death claims, while one year for car accident claims that involve a government entity. You have five years to file a case if you merely seek to sue for vehicle damage.

• How is fault determined in a car accident in Decatur?

  It could be helpful if there are witnesses to help assess what happened in cases where it is unclear who is at fault. Videos and photographic evidence can also be gathered from traffic cameras and CCTV footage of the accident. Physical evidence such as bruises, automobile paint, and skid marks can help determine who is responsible for the collision. Insurance companies are in charge of assessing who is at fault in a car accident. A Decatur car accident lawyer can also investigate who was at fault to see who you have a claim against.

• What happens if you do not report a car accident in Decatur?

  In Decatur, Illinois, you could face a fine or even jail time if you were involved in an accident and failed to report it. If you leave the scene of a crash in Illinois but return within 30 minutes, you could face a $2,500 fine or a year in jail. If you leave the scene of an Illinois collision with more than $1,000 in property damage, your license could be suspended. It is recommended to contact a Decatur car accident attorney to help you determine your legal options based on your circumstances.

• What happens if you do not notify your insurance provider about your Decatur car accident?

  If you do not notify your insurance company about your Decatur car accident, you may face consequences for any claim you file, including a complete denial. Failure to provide notification could eliminate the insurer's obligation to cover the accident's damage or injuries. You must pay for your own medical and car repairs. If another person makes a third-party claim and your insurance has not been notified, you may be held personally liable for the other party's damages.

• Why is it good to hire a car accident lawyer with years or decades of experience in Decatur?

  A Decatur car accident lawyer with years or decades of experience understands the law and the common financial difficulties that accident victims encounter. This helps an attorney in calculating damages and probable restitution. Experienced attorneys frequently have a track record of success, often consisting of hundreds of cases they handled. You should also consider their negotiation skills and trial experience.

• 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.