A car accident can throw you for a loop, especially if you or your loved ones are injured. However, you can receive compensation for injuries and damages sustained if you remain calm. Here are some things you can do after an accident to maximize your claim and prevent more injuries.
Help Yourself and Others Involved in the Accident
If you are not seriously injured, help your passengers and yourself by stepping away from the crash site. After that, call 911, inform them of the situation and let them know if anyone is seriously injured. If the vehicles involved in the crash are not seriously damaged, move them to the side of the road to prevent another accident from oncoming vehicles.
Gather Evidence and Information
Once you step out of the car, immediately start gathering evidence or information. According to Illinois law, you need to exchange the following information with the driver of the other vehicle(s):
Names of the drivers and the owners of the car
Home addresses
Telephone numbers
Insurance information
License and registration of the vehicle involved in the accident
File an Accident Report with the Police
Once police arrive at the scene of the accident, they will fill out and create an Illinois Motorist Crash Report by talking to you and other driver(s). Make sure information you give them is accurate. This is necessary because you will receive a copy of the report, which your insurance provider will need to prove your claim.
If police are not dispatched, you can file the report yourself online if the apparent damage amounts to $1,500 or more. However, if one of the drivers does not have insurance, you can report the incident if damages amount to $500 or more.
Heed the Statute of Limitations
According to Illinois law, you have two years to file for damages from the accident or forfeit your right to them. In fact, you can even be charged if you don’t do this – whether you were a pedestrian or if you were riding a scooter, bicycle, motorcycle or car during the accident.
However, depending on the vehicles involved in the crash, you may have to contend with different charges. This is where the Law Offices of Robert T. Eden come into the picture. We will have a team of professional and experienced auto accident attorneys working on your case from the time of the accident. We provide legal services in Chicago, Waukegan, Libertyville, Woodstock and Antioch, Illinois. Get in touch with us today for a consultation and get the compensation you deserve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications should a car accident attorney have?
The qualifications a car accident attorney should have include a law degree, a valid license to practice in their state, experience in personal injury law, and a proven track record of successful case outcomes.
What fees do car accident attorneys charge?
The fees that car accident attorneys charge typically include a contingency fee, which is a percentage of the settlement or award received. This means you only pay if you win your case, making legal representation accessible without upfront costs.
How important is local expertise in cases?
Local expertise is crucial in legal cases as it ensures a thorough understanding of regional laws, regulations, and court procedures. This knowledge can significantly enhance the effectiveness of representation and improve the chances of a favorable outcome for clients.
How does the attorney communicate with clients?
The attorney communicates with clients through various channels, including phone calls, emails, and in-person meetings, ensuring open and responsive dialogue throughout the legal process. This approach fosters a strong attorney-client relationship and keeps clients informed about their cases.
How does the attorney handle negotiations with insurers?
The attorney handles negotiations with insurers by thoroughly preparing the case, presenting compelling evidence, and advocating for fair compensation. They leverage their expertise to navigate complex discussions, ensuring clients receive the best possible outcome for their claims.
What is the attorneys success rate in similar cases?
The attorney's success rate in similar cases reflects their expertise and commitment to client advocacy. At Robert Edens Law Office, we have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients in personal injury and workers' compensation claims.
What should I bring to the initial consultation?
What to bring to the initial consultation includes any relevant documents related to your case, such as medical records, accident reports, and insurance information. This will help us better understand your situation and provide effective legal guidance.
What are the attorneys specialties within personal injury?
The attorneys' specialties within personal injury include cases related to automobile accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace injuries, and product liability. Their expertise ensures effective representation for clients seeking compensation for injuries sustained due to negligence.
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A car accident can throw you for a loop, especially if you or your loved ones are injured. However, you can receive compensation for injuries and damages sustained if you remain calm. Here are some things you can do after an accident to maximize your claim and prevent more injuries.
