Best Car Accident Lawyers in Elgin

FAQs

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

  For non-emergencies, please call the Elgin Police Department at 847-289-2700.

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

  A Freedom of Information Act Request Form must be filled out in order to get a copy of a police report. However, please keep in mind that the request may take up to 5 business days to process. For further information, citizens may contact the Records Division at 847-289-2575.

• Who is determined at fault following a chain reaction auto accident in Elgin?

  If the victim's injuries are severe and the property damage is significant, Elgin attorneys will almost certainly consider hiring an accident reconstructionist to determine the primary crash in all secondary collisions. Typically, a single driver had lost control of their vehicle, causing the chain-reaction collision. In other instances, multiple car accidents may be caused by bad weather, such as icy roads or an incorrect lane change.

• How long does it take to obtain a settlement for a car accident case in Elgin?

  Processing time for auto accident settlements might be up to six weeks on average. The duration is determined by contributing variables, which vary between cases. Your attorney will make sure that all car repair expenses and medical bills are paid after the defendants' insurance company sends the check, cross-referencing with statements and invoices to make sure there won't be any further charging. Then, your Elgin attorney will get his legal fees and be compensated for any case-related expenditures.

• What are the causes of Elgin car accidents?

  The top three reasons for deadly automobile accidents, according to research conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, are speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving. Talking on the phone, texting, doing cosmetics, eating, conversing with other passengers, or even checking for anything between the seats can all be considered forms of distracted driving.

• Under Elgin regulations, what happens when a car accident damage exceeds insurance coverage?

  Consider hiring an Elgin car accident lawyer to assist you in maximizing your compensation claims if the other motorist is underinsured or uninsured. On your own insurance policy, you may submit a claim for physical injury or collision coverage. However, if that is not an option, you do have other options. For example, you can file lawsuits against the other driver, bad faith insurance claims against uncooperative companies, or damage claims against car manufacturers if defective car parts played a role in the collision.

• How much time does one have to file a car accident claim in Elgin?

  You have two years in Illinois, which includes the Elgin area, to file a car accident and various other personal injury lawsuits. However, if the plaintiff is a minor or if another variable occurs, the time restriction for filing a complaint may be different. Motorists must also report vehicle collisions within 10 days if there were injuries or fatalities, if the property damage was more than $1,500 when all drivers are insured, or more than $500 if any of the cars involved are uninsured.

• 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.