Best Car Accident Lawyers in Waukegan, IL

FAQs

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

  847-360-9000 is the non-emergency contact number of the Waukegan Police Department.

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

  Car crash reports can be obtained in the Police Records and Traffic Division, located on the first floor of the Waukegan City Hall, 100 N. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Waukegan, IL 60085. To receive a digital copy, requesting individuals must visit: https://policereports.lexisnexis.com/

• How much compensation can car crash victims in Waukegan receive if they were hit by a drunk driver?

  The amount of compensation victims of drunk driving accidents in Waukegan are entitled to receive is based on several variables, including the financial losses they have suffered due to medical expenses and lost wages, the seriousness of their injuries, and the impact those injuries have had on their lives. They have a right to financial compensation from the intoxicated driver and the place where the alcohol was purchased. Moreover, they are entitled to compensation for punitive and pain and suffering damages.

• What should victims do right after a car accident in Waukegan?

  First, they must check if they suffered any serious injuries and seek medical attention. Then, Waukegan car accident victims should notify the police because an official police record would be crucial to their injury cases. They must gather and preserve evidence, including getting contact information from witnesses and other parties involved and documenting the accident by taking photos. They should avoid giving statements to other people at the accident scene or to insurance officials. Waukegan car crash victims are advised to get in touch with a car accident attorney.

• How does a court determine who is the negligent party in Waukegan car accidents?

  The Waukegan court carefully examines a car accident case, determining if it was caused by the driver's careless actions, including speeding, texting while driving, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, or driving recklessly or aggressively, by reviewing witnesses' accounts and CCTV footage. The court also determines who is at fault by examining evidence, like photographs, and if vehicle defects or dangerous roads caused the crash.

• What is the Waukegan Automated Red Light Enforcement Program?

  The Automated Red Light Enforcement Program is being implemented by the City of Waukegan to decrease the incidence of red light collisions and the injuries caused by such incidents. Red light camera systems are installed at the five busiest intersections in Waukegan—Green Bay and Washington, Sunset and Lewis, Green Bay and Grand, Glen Floras and Lewis, and Green Bay and Belvidere—as part of the Automated Red Light Enforcement Program, which aims to reduce the number of intersection collisions and increased traffic safety.

• What are the injuries that Waukegan car crash victims can sustain?

  Traumatic brain damage is a common injury in Waukegan vehicular accidents, which can lead to more catastrophic situations, such as death, coma, and cerebral death. Another injury where patients may need surgery and may result in long-term mobility problems is a shoulder injury. Lacerations, back and neck injuries, and broken bones are the other injuries car accident victims may experience.

• 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.