Best Car Accident Lawyers in Des Plaines

FAQs

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

  The Des Plaines Police Department's non-emergency contact number is (847) 391-5400.

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

  You can go to the Des Plaines Police Department's building at 1418 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016, to get a copy of your accident report. You can call the station at (847) 391-5400 for inquiries. You can also submit a request via the station's official website https://www.desplaines.org/government/citydept/police/records_section.htm.

• What are the primary causes of car accidents in Des Plaines?

  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that speeding, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving while impaired or fatigued, and distracted driving are the most frequent causes of car accidents in Des Plaines. Defective vehicle parts and dangerous weather are other factors that lead to car collisions in the area.

• Who bears responsibility for a rear-end accident in Des Plaines?

  The rear driver is usually considered at fault in rear-end accidents. Motorists in Des Plaines are required to maintain a safe following distance to prevent collisions. The majority of car accidents in the United States involve rear-end crashes. These accidents usually result from distracted driving, speeding, and drivers following too closely the car in front of them. It is possible that the rear driver won't be held accountable when the front driver sideswipes them or suddenly stops without warning.

• How can you prove the other driver's negligence in a car accident in Des Plaines?

  A skilled Des Plaines lawyer knows to demonstrate and establish the five elements of negligence to prove the liability of the other driver in the car accident:

  • Duty of Care: your attorney must show that the other party had an obligation to value your safety
  • Breach of Duty: your attorney must demonstrate that the defendant disregarded the duty
  • Cause in Fact: you must demonstrate that the other driver's negligence resulted in your injuries
  • Proximate Cause: the driver's negligence must be established to confirm liability
  • Damages: the losses incurred caused by the accident are proven

• If you contributed to the car accident in Des Plaines, can you still receive compensation?

  Even if you were partially to blame for the car accident, you might still be entitled to compensation in Des Plaines under the modified comparative fault rule. The amount of your share of the responsibility will diminish your recovery. However, you are not eligible for reimbursement if you were more than 50% at fault for the crash.

• Is there a deadline for filing a car accident claim in Des Plaines?

  After sustaining injuries in a car accident in Des Plaines, you have two years to file a claim. If a car collision caused the death of a loved one, you have two years from the date of the death to file a case against the at-fault party. You have five years from the date of the crash to submit a claim if the collision only resulted in property damage. For minors, the deadline for bringing a claim is two years from the day of their 18th birthday.

• 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.