Best Car Accident Lawyers in Palatine, IL

FAQs

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

  Dial 847-359-9000 for non-emergencies in Palatine.

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

  Police reports of accidents can be obtained from the Police Records Section located at 595 N Hicks Road. The office is open from 7 am to 4 pm on weekdays. Requests are usually processed within five to 21 days. Reports can also be purchased online through buycrash.lexisnexisrisk.com one to four days after the accident.

• What are some reasons car accident claims in Palatine get denied by insurance companies?

  Being at fault in the accident, a lapsed policy, and a missed deadline are some reasons why an insurance claim for a car accident in Palatine gets denied by the insurer. Having insufficient insurance coverage to pay for damages is another cause, and so is giving misleading information when signing the insurance contract. In addition, an excluded driver and one that engages in criminal activity such as DUI may sometimes get denied.

• Do you have to pay taxes after receiving an injury settlement or an award from a car accident case in Palatine?

  It depends. Generally, the compensation you receive for the direct physical, financial, and emotional losses incurred in a car accident in Palatine is not taxable. However, anything in excess of these can be taxed as income, such as when the insurer overpaid for the repair of your car or when you receive extra payment for lost wages.

• Will a health insurance policy cover the injuries incurred from a car accident in Palatine?

  Usually, no. A health insurance policy will not automatically cover injuries should you get into a car accident in Palatine. It can only cover accident-related injuries once you have consumed a car insurance accident coverage, which is your first avenue of compensation in this case. The insurance accident coverage can be claimed against the at-fault driver's insurance company. However, if they have no insurance, the underinsured/uninsured coverage on your policy can pay for your medical expenses.

• Which intersections in Palatine have frequent car crashes?

  According to the Palatine Police Department, many car accidents occurred in the intersection of Dundee and Rand Roads. Some crash-prone intersections in the city also include Algonquin and Roselle Roads, Palatine Road and Northwest Highway, and Hicks and Rand Roads. The most common cause of these collisions is the failure of drivers to yield to oncoming traffic while making a turn.

• What can a lawyer do for your car accident case in Palatine?

  A lawyer can help protect your rights when you decide to pursue compensation for a car accident in Palatine. They can negotiate with insurance companies for the compensation you deserve, especially if you have severe injuries. A lawyer can also file a civil lawsuit on your behalf should the insurance company not offer a fair settlement.

• 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.