Best Car Accident Lawyers in Belleville, IL

FAQs

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

  618-234-1212 is the non-emergency contact number for the Belleville Police Department.

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

  The records request form can be downloaded at https://www.belleville.net/DocumentCenter/View/322/Record-Request-Form--?bidId. Fill out the form and submit it in person, by mail, or by fax to 618-234-7133. You can also email it to records@bellevillepolice.org. From the date of the request, the records department has five business days to approve and release the report.

• What should you do after a car accident in Belleville?

  Contact the Belleville Police Department if the other driver hasn't already done so. If at all feasible, relocate your vehicle and yourself to a more secure area before seeking medical help. Get as much information as you can from any witnesses to the collision as well as the other drivers involved. Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses, and save all supporting documents. Inform your insurance carrier about the collision, then get in touch with a personal injury law firm to assess your case and explore your legal options.

• What happens if a third party caused your car accident in Belleville?

  If, for example, a manufacturer's defect caused your car accident in Belleville, the automaker's insurance company would pay for your damages. If a construction mishap or badly maintained road led to the collision, the local government would provide the compensation. A Belleville car accident attorney can help you examine your legal options.

• When should a car accident claim be filed in Belleville?

  You'll have the best chance of receiving the entire amount of compensation if you file your vehicle accident claim as soon as possible. The statute of limitations in Illinois is two years from the date of the accident, but depending on the specifics of the event, you may have more or less time to submit a claim. It is important to see a Belleville car accident lawyer right away to help avoid missing the deadline.

• What types of compensation are available to someone whose loved one was killed in a Belleville car accident?

  The family of a person who was fatally injured in a car accident may be entitled to financial compensation for the following:

  • funeral and burial costs
  • loss of financial assistance
  • loss of instruction, moral training, and management of children's education
  • loss of a relationship with a loved one or of consortium
  • medical costs and other costs incurred before a loved one passed away
  • sorrow, grief, and mental suffering

• How do you prove that the other motorist caused your car accident in Belleville?

  You must prove the following elements to establish the other party's liability:

  • The other party has a responsibility to take reasonable precautions to keep others safe.
  • There was a breach of this obligation when the person responsible did something that was contrary to the duty owed.
  • Your injuries were the result of this breach, which also caused you financial losses and other negative effects.
  • The harm or losses you experienced were the direct results of the at-fault party's violation.

• 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.