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Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

Record-Setting Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Aggressively Fighting For Injured Victims Throughout Chicago, Illinois To Get The Compensation They Deserve.

Recognized by Super Lawyers as one of the best law firms in the state of Illinois, we have earned

4.9/5.0 stars – based on 95 reviews.

Our qualified Chicago Car Accident lawyer who will be diligent and aggressive while protecting your legal rights.

Award-winning car accident attorney in Chicago with a top rating of 10/10 on Avvo, based on honest reviews from our satisfied clients.

When you hire Phillips Law Offices, you can be sure our car accident attorneys will fight for you every step of the way.

Phillips Law Offices secures a spot on the 2018 Top 50 Car Accident Verdicts list.

 

Illinois roads can be dangerous. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 957 deaths in 887 auto accidents in 2012, an increase over 2011. Of the 887 fatal accidents, 130 happened in Chicago, reflecting a 19 percent increase over 2011. For all of Cook County, there were 243 fatal car crashes, more than 27 percent of the state’s total. According to the IDOT’s 2019 crash data, the city with the highest number of crashes that year was Chicago, with a total of 135,813 crashes. Rockford, with 5,317 crashes, followed this, and Aurora, with 4,506 crashes.

Laws are in place to protect the rights of injured victims and the families of those who lost a loved one in an auto accident. As Chicago car accident lawyer, we strive to protect your rights.

With a team of experts, including safety engineers, accident reconstructionists, and forensics specialists, we conduct thorough research into the facts of your automobile accident.

A comprehensive assessment of the facts surrounding an accident often includes an examination of the following:

  • The vehicles and their locations as a result of the impact;
  • Evidence of the area of impact, including the body, windshield, and side windows;
  • Collision debris and its distribution;
  • Road evidence;
  • Vehicle interiors, including seat belts and airbags; and
  • Vehicle damage.

Photographs of the accident scene are often critical and allow us to reconstruct all or part of the auto accident.

We also gather witness statements and compare them to the physical evidence, laws of physics, and your description of the car accident.

Why Do Motor Vehicle Accidents Occur?

Many different factors and circumstances can lead to an accident. Organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) routinely monitor accident facts and figures. The following are the most common reasons why car accidents happen.

  • Distracted driving due to cell phones or texting
  • Drunk driving and intoxicated driving
  • Speeding and reckless driving
  • Rain, fog and other bad weather
  • Running red lights
  • Night driving and poor lighting
  • Vehicle design defects
  • Tailgating
  • Wrong-way driving and improper turns
  • Young teen drivers (or inexperienced drivers)

WHERE DO MOST HIGHWAY ACCIDENTS HAPPEN? WHAT ROADS ARE MOST DANGEROUS?

There are certain locations that tend to be more dangerous and risky for drivers. According to the NHTSA’s Report to Congress:

  • 36% of accidents happen at or near intersections
  • 22% of accidents happen because a vehicle runs off the road
  • 12% of car accidents occur while the vehicle is stopped (i.e. parked or disabled on the side of the road)
  • 11% of vehicles crash because they didn’t stay in the proper lane or changed lanes improperly
  • 9% of car crashes happen when a driver loses control due to bad weather, a blown tire or another event

What Percentage of Car Accidents Are Fatal?

Car accident fatalities vary dramatically from state to state, according to figures from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. These figures are generally not calculated in percentages, but rather, by the number of accidents per 100,000 people.

To illustrate the degree of variance by state, in 2015, the District of Columbia saw a fatality rate of 3.4 people per 100,000, while Wyoming saw a fatality rate of 24.7 per 100,000 people. In 2015 — the most recent figures available — the U.S. saw 32,166 fatal car crashes, resulting in 35,092 deaths.

What Percentage of Car Accident Cases Go to Trial?

Estimates vary, but on average, it’s believed that approximately 5% of car accident cases go to trial.

A fairly large portion of cases are settled before a personal injury lawsuit is even filed. Of the cases that do result in a lawsuit, about half of those cases are settled before going to trial.

Can You Settle Car Accidents Without Insurance?

It is possible to settle a car accident without insurance. Some drivers have coverage that protects them from losses in a crash involving an uninsured driver. In other cases, a lawsuit may be filed and the uninsured driver could be held personally liable for damages. This type of case may be settled pre-trial or at trial.

WHO CAN BE SUED FOR DAMAGE IN A TRUCK ACCIDENT INVOLVING A COMMERCIAL DRIVER?

In the case of a truck accident involving a commercial driver, several parties may potentially be held liable for damages. One of the primary parties that can be sued is the company that employs the commercial driver. Whether or not the driver was under the influence of alcohol, if they were responsible for causing the accident and were operating the vehicle within the scope of their employment, it is generally possible to file a lawsuit against the company for the full extent of the liability. This becomes particularly significant when the driver lacks the financial resources to compensate for the damages awarded in a judgment. Therefore, in such cases, the company can be pursued as a defendant in order to seek adequate compensation for the injuries, property damage, and other losses resulting from the truck accident.

HOW DOES A COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE AFFECT A TRUCK ACCIDENT CASE? 

When it comes to truck accident cases in Chicago, the involvement of drivers with commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) can have significant implications. These implications can affect two crucial aspects of the case: the ease of proving fault and determining who can be held responsible for any damages incurred.

One way in which a CDL can impact a truck accident case is by the influence it has on proving the fault of the other driver involved. If the CDL holder was found to have consumed alcohol prior to the accident, even if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit for non-commercial drivers (typically 0.08 percent), this information can still be utilized against them. For commercial drivers, the legal BAC limit is generally lower at 0.04 percent. Establishing that the CDL holder had a BAC of at least 0.04 percent and that this level of intoxication significantly contributed to the accident can invoke negligence per se principles. This means that the CDL holder can be automatically deemed negligent.

Moreover, in the case where a commercial driver is considered liable for the accident and was operating as an employee within their professional duties, there may be an opportunity to sue the company they work for in order to hold them accountable for the entirety of the liability. This becomes especially important if the driver lacks the financial means to provide appropriate compensation.

Therefore, a commercial driver’s license can impact a truck accident case by affecting the ease of proving fault, as well as determining the party or parties that can be sued for damages.

When to get a lawyer for a car accident?

From dealing with insurance companies to navigating complex legal procedures, a skilled car accident lawyer provides invaluable assistance during this challenging time. If you find yourself in a situation where you require legal guidance, reach out to an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer to discuss your case.

What to do after a car accident that was NOT your fault?

If you’ve been involved in a car accident that was not your fault, you definitely want to contact car accident lawyer but seek medical attention first. Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away. Visit a healthcare professional and get a thorough evaluation. This will ensure any injuries are properly documented.

Once you feel that your health is stable after car accident in Chicago, contact our car crash lawyer and get free consultation on your case .

When to get a lawyer for a car accident in Chicago?

At Phillips Law Offices, Get a lawyer for a car accident when facing serious injuries, liability disputes, insurance complications, complex legal procedures, or potential long-term consequences. Contact us today and hire our Chicago car accident lawyers for your case. 

How much can you get for your car accident injuries?

The amount you can receive for your car accident injuries varies depending on various factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life. It is best to consult with a our car accident lawyer in Chicago who can evaluate your case and provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Excellent legal services from caring and compassionate attorneys. Could not ask for better legal representation! Will forever be grateful to the legal team at Phillips Law Offices for getting my family through such a difficult moment in our lives. 

Khadija Brewington

Our Attorneys Prove Negligence to Help You Secure Compensation for Damages in a Traffic Accident

To get you full and fair compensation, your attorney must prove the other driver was negligent. We prepare your case with the intent to show:

  • The other driver owed you a duty to use reasonable care when driving
  • He or she did not perform that duty
  • He or she caused your injuries
  • You suffered damages as a result of his or her negligence

By Illinois state law, you usually have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. Bear in mind that multiple parties may be negligent, such as a municipality for road defects or a car manufacturer for faulty design or manufacturing.

How Are Auto Insurance Claims Processed?

You must notify your own insurance company when you have been involved in an auto accident. An adjuster will be assigned to your claim and will send you paperwork for its own investigation of the auto accident, such as:

  • The police report
  • An independent assessment of the car damage
  • Photos of the damage and accident site
  • Contact information for witnesses
  • A signed medical release so it can contact your doctors about medical expenses and medical records.

When our car accident attorneys file an automobile accident claim on your behalf with the court, we apply our experience and the trusted opinions of your medical professionals to place a value on your damages. We know the games insurance companies play at your expense. These include

  • Denial of your claim. A claims adjustor may suggest the terms of your policy do not cover the accident and your injuries.
  • Low-ball settlement offers. You can count on an initial settlement offer that falls far below your needs.
  • Non-payment of your medical bills. “We don’t cover that” may become a constant refrain.
  • Low-value car replacement. Your adjustor tells you what the insurance company will give you to replace your car. It falls far below your expectations and you realize that with that amount of money, you could not even buy the vehicle you had.
  • Lack of responsiveness. Your claims representative who seemed so friendly during your first conversation is now suddenly unavailable and does not respond to your phone messages.

Who is responsible for paying my medical bills after a car accident?

In Illinois, the at-fault driver’s insurance company is typically responsible for paying the injured party’s medical bills up to the policy limits. However, suppose the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your expenses. In that case, you may need to rely on your own insurance coverage or pursue a lawsuit to recover your damages.

Can you sue someone for a car accident Illinois?

Yes, you can sue someone for a car accident in Illinois. Illinois follows a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents, which means that the at-fault party can be held responsible for the damages resulting from the accident.

What damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit?

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Should I talk to the insurance company after a car accident?

It’s essential to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However, before speaking to the insurance company of the at-fault driver or providing a recorded statement, it’s best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Insurance companies may try to use your statements against you to minimize their liability.

How long does it take to resolve a car accident case in Illinois?

The length of time it takes to resolve a car accident case in Illinois varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases may be resolved through settlement negotiations, while others may require a trial, which can take several months or years.

What if the other driver does not have insurance?

If the other driver does not have insurance or is underinsured, you may be able to make a claim under your own insurance policy. In Illinois, uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help cover your damages in such situations.

How is fault determined in a car accident?

In Illinois, the fault is determined based on the concept of comparative negligence, which means that fault can be assigned to more than one party. The amount of damages awarded in a car accident case can be reduced by the percentage of fault that the injured party is found to bear.

What should I do if I’m involved in a car accident in Illinois?

If you’re involved in a car accident in Illinois, you should first seek medical attention if needed. It’s also essential to report the accident to the police and exchange information with the other driver, including their name, address, phone number, insurance information, and vehicle information. It’s a good idea to take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved and any visible injuries. Finally, it’s important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.

What is the role of a personal injury attorney in a car accident case?

A personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and help you pursue compensation for your damages. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. An attorney can also represent you in court if your case goes to trial.

What if I was injured in a hit-and-run accident?

If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to contact the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. In Illinois, uninsured motorist coverage can help cover damages resulting from a hit-and-run accident. Additionally, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you pursue compensation by investigating the accident and identifying potential sources of liability.

How much does it cost to hire a personal injury attorney for a car accident case?

The auto accident attorneys at Phillips Law Offices provide free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we do not charge for our services unless we obtain a settlement, verdict, or recovery for you.

Serious injuries resulting from car accidents can lead to costly medical treatments, such as surgeries and long-term physical therapy. As a result, individuals may face significant financial challenges. The high cost of healthcare in the United States often leaves accident victims struggling to figure out how they will manage to pay their medical bills.

As leading personal injury lawyers in Chicago, we stand up for the rights of individuals in Chicago and throughout Illinois who have suffered serious injuries from various types of accidents, including car crashes, semi-truck collisions, SUV accidents, motorcycle accidents, as well as pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Even if an insurance company offers a settlement compensation package, it may not provide adequate compensation for your injuries. Therefore, it is essential to seek legal advice to determine if the offered settlement is fair and sufficient for your needs.

What if the accident was partly my fault?

If you are partially at fault for a car accident, you may still be able to recover damages from the other driver. However, the amount of damages you can recover will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault for the accident, you can only recover 80% of your damages.

According to Illinois comparative fault principles, you can recover damages even if you are found to be partially at fault, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. This is known as a “modified comparative negligence” system. 

Why is it important to visit the doctor after a car accident?

It is important to visit the doctor after a car accident, even if you do not feel any pain or injuries. This is because some injuries, such as whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. A doctor can assess your injuries and provide treatment if necessary.

What are the components of a car accident claim in Chicago?

If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in any legal proceedings. The components of a car accident claim in Chicago are:

  • Damages
  • Fault
  • Insurance
  • Negotiation
  • Lawsuit

What if the defendant was driving on a commercial license?

If the defendant was driving on a commercial license, they are held to a higher standard of care than a driver with a regular driver’s license. This means that they are expected to be more cautious and take all necessary steps to avoid accidents. If the defendant fails to meet this standard of care and causes an accident, they may be held liable for more damages than if they had been driving on a regular driver’s license.

Is the Rear Driver Always At-Fault for an Accident?

In many rear-end car accidents, the driver who hits the car in front is at fault. However, the driver who is hit is not always blameless. In fact, the driver who is hit may be responsible for the accident in some cases.

The driver who is hit may be at fault if they:

  • Suddenly brake for no reason.
  • Go into reverse without warning.
  • Drive with a mechanical problem that makes it difficult to stop, such as a flat tire or a transmission problem.
  • Fail to use their hazard lights when their car is disabled.

The driver who is hit may also be at fault if they are found to be partially negligent. This means that they contributed to the accident, even if they were not the only cause. For example, if the driver who is hit is following too closely, they may be found to be partially at fault for the accident.

If you have been in a rear-end accident, it is important to speak with an attorney to determine who is at fault and what your legal options are.

Here are some additional factors that may contribute to rear-end accidents:

Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention to the road are more likely to rear-end another vehicle.

Drowsy driving: Drivers who are tired are more likely to make mistakes, such as following too closely or not paying attention to the road.

Hazardous weather conditions: Driving in rain, snow, or fog can make it difficult to see and stop, which can lead to rear-end accidents.0

Mechanical problems: A vehicle with mechanical problems, such as faulty brakes or a malfunctioning steering system, may be more likely to cause a rear-end accident.

If you have been in a rear-end accident, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your rights. 

Should I give a statement to the insurance company?

You are not legally obligated to give a statement to the insurance company, but it is often helpful to do so. A statement can help the insurance company understand what happened and how to process your claim. However, it is important to be careful when giving a statement. Be sure to:

Get everything in writing. Ask the insurance company to send you a written statement form. This will help you avoid making any mistakes or saying anything that could be used against you later.

Be as accurate as possible. Think carefully about what happened and answer the questions honestly. If you are not sure about something, say so.

Do not admit fault. Even if you believe you are at fault for the accident, do not admit it to the insurance company. This could hurt your chances of getting a fair settlement.

Do not exaggerate your injuries. If you are injured, be sure to seek medical attention right away. However, do not exaggerate your injuries or symptoms in an attempt to get a higher settlement.

If you have any concerns about giving a statement to the insurance company, you should consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and protect your interests.

What happens if the insurance company denies liability in a car accident claim?

If the insurance company denies liability in a car accident claim, you may have several options. You can file a claim with your own insurance company. If you have collision coverage, your insurance company may be able to help you recover damages, even if the other driver is at fault. However, your insurance rates may go up as a result. Hire an attorney, an attorney can help you file a lawsuit against the other driver and their insurance company. This can be a complex process, and an attorney can help you understand your rights and protect your interests. 

Can a Company Be Liable for My Car Crash?

Employers can be held liable for car accidents caused by their employees. This is known as vicarious liability, and it means that the employer can be held responsible for the actions of their employees, even if the employer was not directly involved in the accident.

In order for vicarious liability to apply, the employee must have been acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. This means that the employee must have been doing something that they were hired to do, or something that was reasonably incidental to their job duties.

Can I recover from emotional distress?

In many cases, people who are involved in car accidents experience a range of emotional reactions, including fear, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional reactions can be very debilitating and can make it difficult to cope with the aftermath of the accident.

There are a number of things that you can do to help yourself recover from emotional distress related to a car accident. These include:

  • Seek professional help
  • Talk to someone you trust
  • Take care of yourself
  • Avoid triggers
  • Give yourself time

Can I Handle My Own Injury Claim With an Auto Insurance Company?

Yes, you can handle your own injury claim with an auto insurance company. However, it is important to note that insurance companies are for-profit businesses and their goal is to pay out as little as possible on claims. This means that they may try to deny or undervalue your claim. If you are not familiar with the insurance claim process, it can be difficult to get the full compensation you deserve.

If you are not comfortable handling your own claim, you can hire a personal injury lawyer. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and file a lawsuit if necessary.

Will a DUI in my car accident decide the case?

A DUI in your car accident may not necessarily decide the case, but it can be a significant factor in determining fault and liability. In most states, driving under the influence is considered negligence per se, which means that it is automatically considered negligence to drive while intoxicated. This means that if you are found to be driving under the influence at the time of an accident, you will be presumed to be at fault for the accident, even if there are other contributing factors.

However, it is important to note that this is just a presumption, and it can be rebutted by evidence that shows that you were not actually negligent in causing the accident. For example, if you were able to prove that the other driver was also driving recklessly or that there was a mechanical failure in your car that caused the accident, you may be able to avoid liability for the accident even if you were under the influence of alcohol.

How Much Is My Car Accident Claim Worth?

The value of your car accident claim depends on a number of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and the fault of the other driver. In general, the more serious your injuries and the greater your financial losses, the more your claim is worth.

Here are some of the types of damages that you may be able to recover in a car accident claim:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage

If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in negotiations with the insurance company or in court.

What if I settle in my car accident?

If you settle your car accident claim, you will receive a lump sum of money from the other driver’s insurance company. This money can be used to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

There are several advantages to settling your car accident claim. First, it can be a quicker and easier process than going to court. Second, you will know exactly how much money you will receive, which can help you to budget for your expenses. Third, you will avoid the stress and uncertainty of going to court.

However, there are also some disadvantages to settling your car accident claim. First, you may not receive as much money as you would if you went to court. Second, you will give up your right to appeal the settlement if you are not satisfied with the amount of money you receive. Third, you will not be able to get a judgment against the other driver, which means that you may not be able to collect any additional money if your expenses increase in the future.

If the other driver in a car accident was uninsured, will my statement affect my claim?

If you are involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver, your options will depend on whether or not you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage is not required in Illinois, but it is a good idea to have it. If you do have UM coverage, you will file a claim with your own insurance company, and they will pay for your damages up to the limits of your policy.

If you do not have UM coverage, you will have to sue the other driver directly. However, this can be difficult, as uninsured drivers often do not have the assets to pay for a judgment. In some cases, you may be able to sue the other driver’s employer if they were driving for work at the time of the accident.

Contact Our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers To Get Fair Compensation For Your Injuries

Chicago Car Accident Lawyer

We review offers and give you straightforward advice about whether to accept them. The goal of our auto accident attorneys is always to maximize your compensation so you receive a fair settlement.

If an offer falls short of that, we recommend refusal of the offer. We are always prepared to take your case to court. We are always prepared to fight for what’s right.

Settlement or verdict, we advocate for full and fair compensation to cover lost income, present and future medical expenses, property loss, pain, suffering, disability, and disfigurement. Accident cases represent one of our top practice areas at Phillips Law Offices.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an automobile accident, trust your case to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can give you the legal help you deserve. Contact one of the Midwest’s top law firms! Reach out to our experienced Chicago car accident lawyers to arrange a free consultation. Call us at (312) 346-4262 or email us today.

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