Best Car Accident Lawyers in Oswego

FAQs

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

  You can contact the Oswego Police Department by calling 630-554-1160 or faxing 630-554-9379.

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

  Residents can acquire accident reports online or by visiting the Oswego Police Department's headquarters.

• How long do you have to make a claim for personal injuries after a car accident in Oswego?

  In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident (735 ILCS 5/13-202). It is crucial to act soon following the Oswego car accident to not miss the deadline. Get in touch with an attorney who will evaluate the specifics of your case and recommend the best course of action for your injury lawsuit moving forward.

• Is an unlicensed driver always to blame for a car accident in Oswego?

  No, an unlicensed motorist is not always to blame for a car accident in Oswego. Driving without a license can be extremely risky and reckless, but numerous variables might contribute to an accident, and the fault is not always obvious. The state of Illinois prohibits driving without a valid driver's license. Accidental drivers without licenses may be cited for this offense. It might result in the suspension or revocation of a driver's license, fines, and jail time. Additionally, the unlicensed driver may be accountable if proven to be at fault for the crash.

• What happens if the unlicensed motorist in a car accident in Oswego is also uninsured?

  You might need assistance from a lawyer familiar with situations involving uninsured motorists if the driver who caused your car accident in Oswego is both unlicensed and uninsured. Your attorney may be turning to your own insurance coverage to obtain reimbursement, as many insurance companies won't insure an unlicensed motorist.

• Where are the most accident-prone intersections in Oswego?

  According to recent records from the Oswego police department, the following intersections are accident hotspots. These include intersections of Route 34 with Douglas Road, Route 34 with Kendall Point, Route 34 with Prairie Market, Route 30 with Kendall Point, and Route 34 with Fifth Street. According to the Illinois Traffic Collision Report, there were no fatalities, three hit-and-run accidents, one injury, and 55 cases involving property damage.

• What factors contribute to car accidents in Oswego?

  According to the Illinois Traffic Accident Report, the top overall contributory causes of car accidents are the following:

  • 10 cases of following too closely
  • 9 cases of inclement weather
  • 7 cases of failing to lower speed
  • 6 cases of failing to yield
  • 2 cases of driving while distracted

• 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.