Best Car Accident Lawyers in Park Ridge

FAQs

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

  The Park Ridge Police Department can be reached at 847-318-5252.

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

  You can obtain a Park Ridge crash report by calling 847-318-5307 to confirm its availability and acquire further instructions. In case you want to pick it up personally, you can visit the Police Records Bureau at 200 Vine Ave, from Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM.

• What determines how much a victim is going to receive in compensation for a car accident in Park Ridge?

  Obtaining compensation in the event of a car accident in Park Ridge depends on many factors. Some of the things that must be looked at include:

  • The severity of your injuries and how long you are expected to take to recover from them
  • Past and future medical bills
  • Perhaps the most important of all is the maximum limit of the at-fault party's insurance. If their limit is at, for example, $20,000 then that's what you're going to get even if your injuries cost so much more.

• Can a car accident claim in Park Ridge be legally denied?

  There are many reasons why insurance companies in Park Ridge may legitimately deny a claim. Most of the time it's because claimants miss a certain time period or make lapses in their regular payments. However, there are instances where the claimants are not acting honestly, whether intentionally or not. A good example of this would be the "excluded driver" where the policyholder held back information about a child of driving age living in the home who then caused the accident when driving the insured vehicle.

• How do you know if you're suffering from whiplash after a car accident in Park Ridge?

  Whiplash is one of those injuries that may take a while to manifest. Some of the most common symptoms felt by sufferers in Park Ridge include dizziness and blurred vision, ringing in the ears, pain when turning their head or the inability to turn it fully, and pain that travels from the shoulder down to the upper back and arm. It would be wise to consult a doctor right after the accident, days before the discomfort appears.

• Can somebody who wasn't wearing a seat belt during the accident in Park Ridge still sue for compensation for their injuries?

  Yes, this is still very much possible. Park Ridge, along with the rest of Illinois, does not allow the "seat belt defense" to be used. This allows the at-fault party to make the assertion that since the injured was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident, the amount they should receive in compensation should be reduced.

• Do drunk drivers who caused accidents in Park Ridge get charged with a criminal offense?

  Yes, and depending on many different factors, the charge may be classified as a felony or a misdemeanor. Violators face serious consequences for this which include the suspension of their driver's license, substantial fines, and even jail time. Park Ridge, and the state of Illinois, have put laws in place that discourage DUI such as mandatory blood alcohol testing.

• 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.