Best Car Accident Lawyers in Elmhurst

FAQs

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

  The Elmhurst Police Department can be reached at (630) 530-3050.

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

  You can obtain a copy of the police report by calling (630) 530-3050 and placing an order for it. The copy can then be left for pick-up at the front desk, which is open 24/7, of the Elmhurst Police Department at 125 E. First Street.

• What can you do after a car accident in Elmhurst caused by an underinsured driver?

  What you can do is contact an attorney who will represent you in your dealings with both the at-fault party AND your own insurance carrier. The attorney can help determine just how much the actual extent of the at-fault party's policy coverage is. They can also make sure that your own underinsured motorist policy is triggered into covering your expenses in Elmhurst, as some insurance adjusters may find ways to dismiss your claim.

• Can a ridesharing company driver be held responsible for a car crash in Elmhurst?

  It depends on whether or not they were on active duty when the accident in Elmhurst happened. Pursuant to Illinois law, ridesharing companies like Uber and Lyft must carry primary liability coverage that applies as soon as the driver is active and online, ready to receive a new booking. Still, this does not mean that these companies aren't going to try and shift the blame on someone else to escape culpability.

• How long does a person who was injured in a car accident in Elmhurst have to claim damages?

  Elmhurst is under Illinois law, which means that a victim of a car accident has two years to file for their damage claims before the court dismisses them. However, if the claimant is currently under 18, they will be exempt from this rule. The clock starts ticking only after they've turned eighteen. Another exception is if the at-fault party left the state. Again, the clock will only start ticking after they've returned.

• What is the information most important to take down after a car accident in Elmhurst other than information about the other party/ies involved?

  If you've already exchanged information with the other driver/s following an Elmhurst crash, then turn your focus on your car. Take as many pictures as possible of the damage incurred. Try to include the environment as well, such as the condition of the road, or the absence of road signs, or malfunctioning street lights, etc. It would also be important that you take pictures of any and all physical injuries that you have—any bruises or open wounds.

• Can family members file in the stead of a victim of a car accident in Elmhurst who passed away due to their injuries?

  Yes, this is possible. With the assistance of an attorney in Elmhurst, the family can file for a wrongful death claim, which should cover the grieving family's expenses such as funeral costs, medical bills, sorrow, loss of future wages and benefits, and punitive damages. In some instances, there are cases that need to go to probate to determine the portions each surviving beneficiary is entitled to receive from the compensation.

• 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.