Best Car Accident Lawyers in Joliet

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency concerns, contact the Joliet Police Department at 815-726-2491.

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

  You can secure a copy of your car accident report at https://buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com/ui/home.

• How long do you have to file a personal injury claim for a car accident in Joliet?

  You must file your personal injury claim within two years from the crash date. If you are filing a property damage claim for your crashed vehicle, you have five years from the date of the accident to do it. Car accident victims claiming against a Joliet government entity must file the claim plus a written notice to the entity within one year from the crash date.

• How can you get compensation if the driver at fault has no insurance in Joliet?

  If an uninsured driver has hit you, you recover damages by claiming from your insurance policy. Illinois law 215 ILCS 5/143a requires all motorists in Joliet to have Uninsured Motorist (UIM) coverage with their auto insurance. The UIM coverage is meant to cover the policyholder’s damages in this particular situation. The coverage may also be used for hit-and-run cases. You can sue the at-fault driver for additional compensation if your expenses exceed your UIM coverage limits.

• What are the most dangerous roads in Joliet?

  Based on the Joliet Police Department’s 2021 traffic data, the Route 59 and Caton Farm Road intersection recorded the most vehicular crashes, with 37. This is followed by the Route 59 and Theodore Street intersection, which had 35 crashes. The Broadway Street and Western Avenue intersection was also identified as a crash-prone area, with 27 accidents in 2021.

• What if you were partly to blame for the car accident in Joliet?

  Joliet follows the modified comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, your liability and compensation will be in proportion to your percentage of fault. If you are 20% liable for not using a turn signal, you’ll have to pay for 20% of all resulting damages. Consequently, the compensation you receive will be reduced to 20%. You can claim compensation if your fault percentage is 49% and below.

• What important steps should you take after a car accident in Joliet?

  In addition to calling the police and exchanging contact and insurance information with the other motorist, it is advised that you take crash scene photos and identify eyewitnesses. You should also get immediate medical attention on the scene and afterward with your physician, even if you feel fine. Some car crash injuries, like whiplash, only show symptoms after a few days. Before speaking with any insurer, it is recommended that you consult with a Joliet car accident attorney.

• 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.