Best Car Accident Lawyers in Orland Park, IL

FAQs

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

  The Orland Park Police Department can be reached at (708) 349-4111.

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

  You can obtain an Orland Park traffic crash report by going to the police department at 15100 S Ravinia Ave, completing a Non-FOIA Records Request Form, and paying the fee. The report will then be available after 3 to 5 business days.

• Is it possible to sue a bar in Orland Park after the driver that crashed into my car got drunk from there?

  This is possible. Pursuant to Illinois' Liquor Control Act, also known as the "Dram Shop Act", commercial establishments that sell alcoholic consumables may be liable for an accident in Orland Park if the following are true:

  • The establishment sold alcohol to the at-fault party
  • The at-fault party became intoxicated because of the service of alcohol
  • The intoxication is the cause of the accident and the injuries

  This act also holds liable the bartenders, waiters, owners, renters, and corner store attendants.

• What are the options for a pedestrian who got run over in a car accident in Orland Park?

  They can sue the negligent party, of course, especially if the accident in Orland Park caused injuries that are expensive and painful to heal from. It is important for the injured to reach out to the police and make a report, go to a doctor to have the full extent of the injuries diagnosed, and acquire the help of an attorney to have the personal injury claim process handled properly.

• What can an attorney do for someone who was involved in a car accident in Orland Park?

  An attorney is a practical ally to have when filing for a car accident claim in Orland Park as they:

  • Negotiate settlements with the other party's insurance adjusters
  • Calculate and assign monetary values to your economic and non-economic damages
  • Gather evidence to prove your innocence and/or establish the negligence of the at-fault party
  • Protect your rights throughout the case

• How much is the worth of the pain and suffering of a car accident victim in Orland Park?

  Car accidents in Orland Park can cause non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, which are a bit trickier to calculate than other damages like lost wages or medical expenses. There are many factors that need to be considered here, which include:

  • The victim's age and health
  • The impact that the injury has left on the victim
  • The severity of the injury
  • The duration of the victim's suffering

• What can you do if your insurance carrier denies your car accident claim in Orland Park?

  This may fall under bad faith and will require the assistance of an attorney to sort out. Sometimes, insurance companies do everything they can to avoid paying out claims which means they can outright dismiss them without even doing an investigation. If this is what happened to you, an attorney can use the full extent of the law in order to pursue the compensation that you are legally and rightfully entitled to receive.

• 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.