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What To Do After A Fatal Car Accident In Illinois

car accident

Fatal car accidents are a tragic reality on the roads of Illinois. Each year, the state of Illinois witnesses a significant number of vehicular accidents that tragically result in the loss of life. The impact of these accidents extends beyond the immediate loss, affecting families, friends, and communities. In the face of such tragedies, individuals must be well-informed about the appropriate steps to take in the aftermath of a fatal car accident.

This knowledge not only helps in dealing with the immediate consequences but also plays a vital role in the legal and emotional processes that follow. We will provide the information you need after a fatal car accident in Illinois. From the immediate actions at the accident scene to navigating legal obligations and coping with the aftermath, we cover essential aspects to equip you with the necessary knowledge and resources.

Understanding these steps ensures that you can handle these challenging situations with composure and awareness, ultimately aiding in a more structured and effective response during such critical times.

Immediate Steps at the Accident Scene

The moments following a car accident can be chaotic and overwhelming, especially when it’s fatal. The first and foremost priority is ensuring the safety of all individuals involved. If you can move and are not seriously injured, check on the condition of other passengers and individuals involved in the accident. If it’s safe, move to a secure location away from traffic to avoid any additional hazards. In cases of serious injuries, it’s crucial not to move the injured unless there is an immediate danger, such as a fire, as improper movement can exacerbate injuries.

Once you are in a safe location, immediately call 911. This step is vital in ensuring that medical assistance and law enforcement are dispatched to the scene as quickly as possible. When speaking to the emergency operator, provide a clear and concise description of the location, the number of people involved, and the extent of the injuries as best as you can ascertain. Be prepared to answer any questions the operator might have. Once first responders arrive, it is essential to cooperate fully with them. They are trained to handle such situations and can provide essential assistance and guidance.

While waiting for emergency services, if your condition allows, start gathering information from the accident scene. This includes taking photographs of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any skid marks or debris that may be relevant. These images can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

Additionally, politely ask for their contact information if there are any witnesses. They could provide valuable statements later on. It’s also important to note the positions of the vehicles involved in the accident, as this can help in reconstructing the events leading up to the crash. Remember to do this safely and without interfering with the scene, as preserving the integrity of the accident site is crucial for the investigation.

Legal Obligations and Reporting the Accident

In Illinois, the law mandates prompt reporting of fatal car accidents. This legal requirement is not just a formality; it is a crucial step in properly documenting and investigating the incident. If you are involved in or witness a fatal car accident, you are required to notify law enforcement immediately. Typically, this is achieved through the initial 911 call. However, it’s crucial to ensure that a formal report is filed. The report, usually completed by the responding officers, should include detailed information about the accident, including the time, location, parties involved, and any known circumstances that led to the incident.

Understand that this documentation plays a vital role in any subsequent legal proceedings or insurance claims. The timeline for reporting can vary depending on the specific circumstances, but it’s generally advised to do so as soon as possible. In cases where you might be incapacitated or unable to file the report yourself, it is often handled by law enforcement officers at the scene. Keeping a copy of this report is crucial for future reference, especially when dealing with insurance claims or legal matters.

After a fatal car accident, one of the essential steps is contacting your insurance company. It’s advisable to do this soon after the accident, once the immediate safety concerns are addressed. When you call, be prepared to provide a concise but comprehensive account of the incident. However, it’s important to be mindful of the information you share. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about the cause or fault of the accident.

Insurance companies have their own process for handling claims, especially in the case of fatal accidents. Be sure to ask about the specific steps and documentation required. This may include a copy of the police report, photographs of the accident scene, and any relevant medical reports.

Understanding your policy coverage is also crucial, as it determines the extent of support you can expect. Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company, and feel free to ask for clarifications on any aspects you need help understanding. If you feel overwhelmed or unsure about the process, consider seeking the assistance of a legal professional.

Navigating the Aftermath of a Fatal Accident

In the wake of a fatal car accident, various legal considerations come into play, particularly if you’re directly involved. One critical aspect is the potential for wrongful death claims. These claims are civil lawsuits typically filed by the family of the deceased against the party deemed responsible for the accident. Understanding liability issues is crucial, as they determine who is legally at fault.

Navigating these legal waters can be complex and emotionally taxing. It’s highly recommended to consult with a legal professional who practices in personal injury or wrongful death cases. An experienced attorney can provide guidance on your rights and responsibilities, help you understand the legal process, and represent you in any proceedings. They can also assist in dealing with insurance companies and ensuring that any settlements or claims are fairly negotiated.

The emotional impact of a fatal car accident cannot be understated. Whether you have lost a loved one, were involved in the accident, or witnessed it, the trauma can be profound and long-lasting. Acknowledging the need for emotional support is a vital step in coping with such a loss.

Seeking counseling or therapy can provide a safe space to process your emotions and work through the grief. Many communities in Illinois offer support groups specifically for those affected by fatal car accidents. These groups can be a source of comfort and understanding as they connect you with individuals who have gone through similar experiences. Additionally, there are various resources available, including mental health professionals and crisis helplines, which can offer immediate support and guidance.

Navigating the aftermath of a fatal car accident in Illinois involves a series of important steps. From fulfilling legal obligations and reporting the accident to dealing with insurance companies and addressing the emotional fallout, each aspect requires careful consideration and action. Understanding these steps and being prepared can significantly aid in managing the complex and challenging journey that follows a fatal car accident.

Engaging an Attorney After a Fatal Car Accident in Illinois

In the wake of a fatal car accident in Illinois, one of the most critical decisions you may face is determining when to engage an attorney. This decision is pivotal because the aftermath of such an accident often involves complex legal and financial considerations that can have long-term implications. Understanding the right time to seek legal counsel can significantly influence the outcome of any subsequent claims or legal actions.

Assessing the Need for Legal Representation

The immediate aftermath of a fatal car accident is usually marked by confusion and emotional turmoil. Amidst dealing with grief and shock, it’s essential to recognize situations where legal assistance is necessary. If the accident results in a fatality, the complexity of legal issues typically escalates, making it advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. A wrongful death attorney can provide crucial guidance on various matters, including the investigation of the accident, the interpretation of laws relevant to your case, and the intricacies of insurance claims.

Understanding Legal Implications and Rights

In Illinois, fatal car accidents can lead to potential wrongful death claims and civil lawsuits initiated by the family of the deceased against the party responsible for the accident. These claims seek compensation for losses such as funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional distress. Engaging an attorney early in the process ensures that you understand your legal rights and the potential liabilities you might face. It’s important to note that in wrongful death cases, Illinois law imposes specific time limits for filing claims, known as statutes of limitations. An experienced attorney can ensure that all necessary actions are taken within these legal timeframes.

Navigating Insurance and Financial Matters

Dealing with insurance companies after a fatal accident can be a daunting task. Insurers often have extensive legal resources and may push for quick settlements that may not be in your best interest. An attorney can represent you in these discussions, ensuring that any settlement offer is fair and adequately compensates for the losses incurred. They can also assist in uncovering additional sources of compensation, such as uninsured motorist coverage or third-party liability, which you might not have considered.

The Role of Legal Counsel in Investigations

Another critical role of an attorney in the aftermath of a fatal car accident is assisting in the investigation. They can help gather and preserve crucial evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with accident reconstruction experts. This comprehensive approach to evidence collection is vital for building a strong case, whether it’s for negotiating with insurance companies or preparing for a potential lawsuit.

Emotional Support and Decision-Making

Finally, an often-overlooked aspect of engaging an attorney is the emotional support and clarity they can provide during a challenging time. Making informed decisions while grieving can be extremely difficult. An attorney can take on the burden of managing the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on healing and coping with the loss. They can offer objective advice and help you make decisions that are in your best interest, both in the short and long term.

Engaging an attorney following a fatal car accident in Illinois is a step that should be considered promptly. Legal representation can significantly affect the management of legal, financial, and insurance-related matters following such a tragedy. An attorney’s experience not only helps in navigating the complex legal landscape but also provides a source of support and guidance during a time of overwhelming emotional and personal challenges. By understanding your rights, ensuring timely legal actions, and having an advocate on your side, you can navigate this difficult period with a sense of security and confidence in the pursuit of justice and fair compensation.

Talk To Our Cook County Car Accident Lawyers Now

According to experienced auto accident lawyers, quite a significant number of people due to their lack of awareness don’t exercise their legal rights by filing a claim for the injuries and losses they suffered.

If you file a claim as soon as possible and establish liability, you could get compensated for your medical expenses and the other damages you may have incurred due to the accident. But in order to establish liability, you would require the services of an experienced auto accident lawyer.

Were you injured in an accident? Contact our Cook County car accident lawyers today at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens for your free case evaluation. For immediate assistance, call us at (847) 395-2200.

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Steps To Take After An Illinois Car Accident

car accident

Imagine being in a serious auto accident in Chicago on I-90 or I-94. Suddenly, your car is wrecked, and you have severe pain in your back and neck. What will you do to cover your medical bills? How will you provide for your family? When another driver causes the accident, you could file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party.

First, however, you must take several steps after your auto accident outlined below. If you have legal questions or want to file a lawsuit, speak to our Illinois car accident lawyers immediately. The attorneys at the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. have fought for the rights of Illinois personal injury victims for two decades.

Call 911

The first thing to do after any auto accident is to call 911 for anyone who is hurt. The police also will usually come to the accident scene. If someone is unconscious from the accident or someone has pain in the back or neck, they should not be moved. Wait for medical professionals to arrive before moving them.

When the ambulance and police arrive, write down the badge numbers and names of all EMTs and police officers. This information will be vital if you file a car accident lawsuit later.

Stay At The Accident Scene

No matter how important your destination is, stay at the accident scene until the police tell you to leave. If you leave the crash scene, you could be charged with hit and run, especially if another party was injured.

Collect Contact Information

Next, write or record the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information for all drivers in the accident. State law also requires you to give your name, address, and insurance details to other parties in the accident. If other passengers were hurt, also collect their contact details. Furthermore, obtain any witnesses’ contact information and their statements.

Take Photos And Videos

Cell phones are critical tools after a car accident. Use yours to take clear, detailed photos of the accident scene. For example, take pictures of the surroundings, intersection, traffic signs and lights, and skid marks. Next, take images of vehicles involved, damages, and personal injuries.

Your insurance adjuster and your attorney will need these details to determine who was at fault and who will need to pay what. While your lawyer can obtain most accident evidence during the investigation, your personal photos and videos right after the incident can be critical to your case.

Document Your Medical Treatment

If you were hurt, go to the ER immediately so your injuries are documented. Carefully document all treatments you receive and give this information to your insurance provider and attorney. Obtaining damages in a lawsuit requires you to prove you had injuries and other losses and that they were linked to the accident.

Speak To Our Illinois Car Accident Lawyers Today

Were you in a car accident recently in Chicago, Waukegan, Woodstock, or Antioch? Most likely, you have medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering that prevent you from living a normal life. With the help of our Illinois car accident lawyers at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, you could be on the road to physical and financial recovery. Contact one of our attorneys for a confidential consultation about your car accident case by calling (847) 395-2200.

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Do You Know The Success Rate For Hip Surgery?

hip surgery

If you have problems and pain with your hip, you may be considering or already have had surgery. Unfortunately, there are often problems with hip surgeries, and some patients end up having more problems and pain than they did before.

Keep reading to learn about the troubling success rate for a specific type of hip surgery. If you had hip surgery in Antioch or the surrounding area and are displeased with the results, speak to our Antioch medical malpractice attorneys at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens. Mr. Edens and his staff have fought for the rights of medical malpractice victims for 20 years.

Overview of Surgery For Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS)

Hip arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome (FAIS) is more common yearly. FAIS is a painful hip condition that has many symptoms, clinical signs, and deformities in the bones. Symptoms can include groin and hip pain, clicking, catching, locking, and stiffness in the hip. Also, some patients have a decreased range of motion in the affected hip, particularly internal rotation and flexion.

To be diagnosed with FAIS, the patient must have bone problems as well as symptoms and clinical signs. Muscle tightness, poor mobility, bone morphology, and a dearth of motor control can lead to discomfort, pain, and even arthritis in the hip.

However, many doctors and surgeons focus only on one aspect of FAIS: problems with the bones. However, the patient outcomes when the focus is only on bone problems could be better, as a recent clinical study showed.

In the study ‘How Many Patients Achieve an Acceptable Symptom State After Hip Arthroscopy for Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome?’, researchers asked patients if they had a significant improvement in their condition after surgery. Unfortunately, only 46% of patients reported that the surgery had contributed to a substantial improvement in their condition.

Also, only 40% of patients were happy with their symptoms related to their ability to enjoy their favorite sports. The researchers also cited related studies that found similar results after FAIS hip arthroscopy. In many cases, a favorable outcome to the surgery was approximately 50/50 – a coin flip.

Potential Negative Side Effects Of FAIS Surgery

This surgery can benefit some patients with hip pain, but far from everyone. The study above shows that doctors and surgeons must weigh the possible risks vs. benefits carefully. Some of the possible side effects of the surgery are:

  • Nerve damage
  • Excessive bleeding into the joint
  • Blood clots
  • Bone death
  • Chronic pain
  • Infection

If you had FAIS hip arthroscopy and are displeased with your outcome, you are not alone. Some of these cases could be the basis for a medical malpractice claim, so have your case reviewed by an attorney.

Speak To Our Antioch Medical Malpractice Attorneys

To learn if you have a medical malpractice case, speak to our Antioch medical malpractice attorneys at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens at (847) 395-2200. Since 1991, Mr. Edens and his staff have represented many medical malpractice clients and obtained millions in damages for their clients. His strong success record has earned the law firm the respect of insurance companies; they know Mr. Edens will fight hard for his clients to get the money they deserve.

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What Not To Do With Your Workers’ Compensation Doctor

workers' comp doctor

If you are hurt on the job, you should be able to get workers’ comp for your medical bills and partial wages. But many things can go awry in a workers’ comp claim, and one of them involves your treating doctor.

You have the right in Illinois to choose your treating doctor during your recovery, and you may also have to deal at some point with the insurance company’s doctor. In either case, there are certain things you should not do when working with your treating doctor. If you need assistance with your claim or injury, our Cook County workers’ compensation lawyers can offer outstanding representation.

Your Rights In An Illinois Workers’ Comp Case

Illinois state law states that the employer must pay for all necessary medical care to deal with your work-related illness or injury. When needed, the employer must also pay for mental, physical, and vocational rehabilitation.

The employee is allowed to select two physicians, surgeons, or hospitals. If the company informs you that it has an approved preferred provider program (PPP) for workers’ comp, the preferred provider counts as one of your two choices.

What Not To Do

There are several things you should refrain from dealing with your treating physician. This is true whether it is your personal doctor or the insurance company doctor:

Do Not Lie

You should always tell the truth to the doctor about what happened that injured you. It could be tempting to not tell the truth about how the accident occurred, but it will not benefit your case and could hurt it. Remember, fault does not usually matter in an Illinois workers’ comp case; as long as you were injured at work, you should receive benefits. So, obscuring the truth about how it happened is not necessary.

Also, the doctor deals with workers’ comp injuries often. They probably know how the injury happened, and if something sounds off in your explanations, it could raise red flags and affect your benefits.

Do Not Omit An Earlier Injury

It is common for injured parties to have a preexisting condition in the body area or part that was injured at work. If you have a preexisting injury, remember to disclose it to your treating physician. Do not attempt to hide it or omit this vital information. You are not precluded from receiving worker’s comp because of a preexisting injury.

Do Not Exaggerate

Do not exaggerate your injury because you think it benefits your case. Be honest about the injury, how it happened, and your pain. Your benefits and recovery depend on you telling the truth to your treating doctor. The doctor sees many work-related injury cases and probably can spot people who is not telling the truth.

Speak To Our Cook County Workers’ Compensation Lawyers

If you were hurt at work in Cook County, you can probably receive workers’ compensation during your recovery. But you should ensure that you comply with your workers’ comp doctor’s instructions, or your benefits could be at risk. For assistance with your case, speak to our Cook County workers’ compensation lawyers at The Law Office of Robert T. Edens at (847) 395-2200. Mr. Edens may be able to obtain a better workers’ compensation settlement than you could on your own.

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What Is A Statutory Employer In Workers’ Comp Claim?

workers comp

If you have ever been hurt on the job, you know how traumatizing it can be. Whether the injury was related to slipping and falling, falling from heights, overexertion, or something else, a work injury can prevent you from earning a living and enjoying life.

Fortunately, Illinois requires most employers to provide workers’ compensation insurance. If you are dealing with a work-related injury, it is critical to understand how the state’s workers’ compensation system works.

Learn about statutory employers in this blog post and related workers’ comp information. If you have questions about your case, our Antioch workers’ comp lawyer Robert T. Edens, can assist you. Mr. Edens is known as a top-rated workers’ comp lawyer in Illinois and has obtained millions of dollars for his clients.

Statutory Employer Overview

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act offers disability benefits not just to employees. It also offers workers’ compensation to employees of subcontractors who perform any work directly or indirectly. This part of the law is vital because it assists an injured employee working for a subcontractor who lacks workers’ comp insurance. Or the subcontractor lacks the assets to provide benefits that the injured employee should receive.

If you injured your back in a fall at work and your company did not have workers’ comp insurance, but a general contractor was working there, you still might receive benefits. You can file an ‘application for adjustment’ claim against your company. In this case, the general contractor is the ‘statutory employer.’ That employer must pay your workers’ comp benefits. After the benefits are paid, and the case is resolved, the statutory employer can pursue your company for reimbursement.

When Does An Injury Occur At Work?

Under the workers’ comp law, the injury must have happened when the worker did work and not when doing their personal business. The law mentions that the injury must ‘arise out of employment,’ meaning the injuries can be sourced to a time, place, and cause related to your work.

Note that not every injury that occurs at work is covered by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. For instance, if you were walking down the hall and fell for no reason, such as a defect in the floor, this would not be covered because you were not at any higher risk than any person in the public would be.

However, if you walked down your office hall carrying a video projector and tripped, this could be enough to qualify for workers’ comp. If you wonder if the Act would cover your injury, do not hesitate to contact Mr. Edens for more information.

Our Antioch Workers’ Comp Lawyer Will Fight For You

Were you recently injured in an Illinois work-related accident? You need The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens fighting for your rights today. Our attorneys have helped injured Antioch workers obtain their deserved workers’ compensation for over 20 years. We can help you get the compensation you deserve. During the initial consultation, Mr. Edens will review your case carefully and inform you if you need an attorney. Contact our Antioch workers’ comp lawyer today at (847) 395-2200 for legal assistance.

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Can I Still Get Workers Comp If Accident Was My Fault?

workers comp

Imagine being hurt on the job, such as falling from a ladder and breaking your hip. Suddenly, you are in pain, injured, and unable to work and pay your bills. Fortunately, Illinois has strong workers’ compensation laws, and your employer is probably required to cover your injuries, even if the accident was your fault.

Learn more about the law in this article, and contact our Illinois workers’ comp attorneys for additional legal information. Attorney Robert Edens has been recognized as a top-rated workers’ comp lawyer and is an active member of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the American Trial Lawyers Association.

Illinois Workers’ Compensation Overview

Illinois workers’ comp is a system of benefits prescribed by the law to most employees with a job-related illness or injury. Workers’ comp benefits are paid for any injuries entirely or partially caused by a worker’s work. This can include the aggravation of a pre-existing injury, injuries because of repetitive use, cardiac events, or other physical issues caused by work.

Importantly, workers’ comp benefits are paid regardless of fault. You are not required to prove how or why the accident happened, only that it occurred at work.

What Should You Do If You Are Hurt At Work?

The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act states several obligations the employee and employer have after a job-related accident. They include:

Seek Immediate Treatment

You must get immediate medical treatment for your job-related injuries. How quickly you receive treatment can significantly impact how your workers’ compensation case is resolved.

Report The Injury

The law requires that you report your injury to your employer within 45 days. The report must be submitted on a Form 45. You have up to 45 days to report the injury because you might not realize you are injured for days or weeks. That said, you should report the injury as soon as you become aware of it.

Keep Your Employer Informed

You need to keep your company updated on how you recover and when you will return to work. Your employer will usually not let you return to your job without a statement from your doctor that you can and what work you can do. If the insurance adjuster wants you to have an independent medical review, you must comply.

Can You Be Denied Illinois Workers’ Compensation Legally?

Yes. There are cases in which you could be disqualified from receiving benefits. For example, you could be disqualified from receiving benefits if you do not notify your employer within 45 days.

Also, while you can receive benefits even when causing your injury, there are exceptions. Your claim could be denied if you were engaging in horseplay at work, fell, and broke your ankle. Direct any questions about the injury circumstances to our Illinois workers’ compensation attorneys.

Our Illinois Workers’ Comp Attorneys Will Fight For Your Rights

If you were injured at work in Illinois, you might not be fully aware of your right to compensation for being out of work. Most employers in Illinois must carry workers’ compensation insurance; yes, you can usually get coverage if the accident was your fault. For more information and a consultation, speak to our Illinois workers’ comp attorneys at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens at (847) 395-2200. Mr. Edens has fought for the rights of injured workers like you for over 20 years.

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Why You Should Always Go To The ER After A Serious Car Accident

emergency room

A severe car accident can instantly turn your world upside down with head trauma or broken bones, and you might be unsure what to do next. If you have been injured in a severe car accident, the first step is to go to the ER. Learn in this article why getting prompt medical attention is so important.

Second, contact a Lake County car accident lawyer at The Law Offices Of Robert T. Edens. Our experienced Illinois personal injury attorneys will review your case, answer your questions, and determine if you could receive compensation for your losses. Our law firm has been recognized as one of the top 100 in the state, and we have successfully fought for the rights of auto accident victims for two decades.

Car Accident Injuries Can Be Severe And Often Fatal

Imagine driving at 30 MPH in Lake County through an intersection and suddenly, a truck hits you head-on. The massive crash forces can cause severe sudden stop injuries that could endanger your life. For instance, you could suffer the following injuries in a severe accident:

  • Whiplash and related neck injuries
  • Cuts and scrapes
  • Internal bleeding
  • Head injuries
  • Bone fractures
  • Concussion

Some crash injuries are apparent after the accident, but others might not be noticeable initially. You might think you are ok, and discover that you can hardly walk the next day, and the delay in care worsened your injuries. To be safe, you should always be looked over in the ER by a medical professional.

Accident Injuries Must Be Medically Documented For A Successful Lawsuit

After a car accident, your health and well-being are paramount, but it also is essential to ensure that your injuries are documented in your medical record. Winning a car accident lawsuit means proving that another party caused the accident and your injuries.

The first step to winning your case is having a licensed medical professional document and connecting your accident injuries to the auto accident. With this vital medical proof, collecting compensation for your injuries will be easier.

Get Medical Attention Even If You Do Not Have Health Insurance

Imagine being in a severe car accident and suddenly remembering you do not have health insurance. You might fear going to the ER or doctor because you think you cannot pay or will be turned away. However, the Illinois Emergency Medical Treatment Act states that ‘no hospital, physician, dentist, or other healthcare provider may refuse to provide needed emergency treatment to any whose life would be threatened.’

Furthermore, if the other party caused the accident, their auto insurance may be required to pay for your medical care and other damages. Not having health insurance should never stop you from seeking treatment after a car accident.

Our Lake County Car Accident Lawyers Will Fight For You

If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by another party, you could be entitled to compensation for your economic and non-economic losses. Legal compensation could be for your medical bills, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and more. Call our Lake County car accident lawyers immediately at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens at (847) 395-2200 for more information.

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Illinois Bicycle Laws You Must Know

bicycle laws

Being in a bicycle accident is usually both terrifying and painful. In an instant, you could slam into the vehicle or be thrown to the ground and suffer terrible, life-changing injuries. If you were hit on a bicycle recently, it is imperative to understand the Illinois bicycle laws below.

For additional legal information after reading this article, speak to our Palatine bicycle accident attorney at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C., today. Our attorneys possess 20 years of experience fighting for the rights of bicycle accident victims throughout Illinois. An attorney can review your case and determine if there is a potential for compensation for your economic and non-economic losses.

Why Are Illinois Bicycle Accident Laws Important To Your Case?

In many cases, the motor vehicle driver is at fault for hitting a bicyclist and could be liable for the resulting injuries. However, Illinois has a comparative negligence law that could affect the outcome of a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

Comparative negligence can come into play when more than one party is at fault for an accident. If you were partially at fault for your bicycle accident because you broke a bicycle law, you could receive less compensation for your injuries. Thus, knowing relevant bicycle and traffic laws in Illinois is essential to understand what you could receive in a personal injury claim.

Illinois Bicycle Rules Of The Road

It is essential to understand that Illinois bicyclists possess all the rights and responsibilities that apply to drivers of other vehicles. As a bicyclist on Illinois roads, you are required to obey traffic rules, including the ones mentioned below:

Ride On The Right Side

You should ride as close to the right-hand curb or shoulder as possible. Unfortunately, many Illinois bicycle accidents happen when a driver passes too close to the bicyclist and hits them. So, stay as far to the right as possible without endangering your safety.

When You May Move Left

  • A biker can move to the left in these situations:
  • When passing or overtaking another vehicle or bike moving in the same direction.
  • When getting ready to make a left turn.
  • When it is necessary to avoid a moving or fixed object, surface hazard, animal, etc.
  • When approaching a part of the road where a right turn is necessary.
  • When operating a bicycle on a one-lane highway with at least two marked traffic lanes.

When You Can Ride Side By Side

Two bicyclists riding abreast is allowed in Illinois if other vehicles’ normal, reasonable movement is not impeded. But riding more than two abreast is not allowed, other than on parts of roads that are only authorized for bicyclists.

When You Can Ride On Sidewalks

If you ride your bicycle on a sidewalk in Illinois, you are required to obey all pedestrian signals and signs. You also must yield right of way to all pedestrians in crosswalks or sidewalks and slow down and carefully go around pedestrians as needed. Furthermore, you should slow down and give an audible signal to alert the pedestrian before passing him or her.

Our Palatine Bicycle Accident Attorneys Can Help

Being hurt in a bicycle accident can result in severe injuries. If you or a loved one suffered bicycle accident injuries and believe another party caused the incident, Mr. Eden and his legal staff may be able to help get the most compensation for your injuries. Call our Palatine bicycle accident attorney at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens today at (847) 395-2200 for a complimentary consultation.

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What To Do If You Suspect Nursing Home Abuse

nursing home abuse

Nursing Home Abuse And Neglect

Many older Americans spend at least some of their retirement years in nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Unfortunately, seniors can sometimes be the victims of nursing home abuse and neglect. As we age, we may not be able to stand up for ourselves or communicate as well as we used to, and abuse could occur without the family knowing. That is why it is so important, as a relative, to watch closely for potential signs of abuse when visiting your loved one.

Below, learn about the steps to take if you believe your loved one is suffering nursing home abuse. Then our nursing home abuse lawyers in Illinois at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens can answer your questions and potentially represent you in filing a claim or lawsuit.

Evaluate The Situation

Before you report the possible nursing home abuse, think about why you want to do so. Some of the questions you should ask yourself before moving forward are:

  • Did you see your loved one abused or neglected in a nursing home?
  • Have you noticed signs of neglect and abuse, including unusual cuts and bruises?
  • Did your loved one complain to you about how they are being treated?
  • Do you know which resident or staff member abused your loved one?
  • When did the alleged abuse occur?

The more you understand why you think there has been abuse, the better you can discuss the matter with the appropriate people and agencies.

File A Complaint With the Illinois LTC Ombudsman

After you fully understand why you think there has been nursing home abuse or neglect, the next step is to file a complaint with the state’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. The Illinois Department on Aging administers the program, and you can find your local ombudsperson by visiting the Department’s website.

File A Complaint With the Illinois Department Of Public Health (IDPH)

Next, you should file a complaint with IDPH. Before you file the complaint, obtain a copy of the complaint form on their website. You can send the form by mail or fax. Some of the questions that you will need to answer on the IDPH complaint form are:

  • What is the name of the nursing home resident who was abused or neglected?
  • What happened in the alleged nursing home abuse or neglect incident?
  • When did the alleged abuse happen?
  • Where is the nursing home or assisted living facility located?
  • How was your loved one harmed or possibly harmed?

Understand that the IDPH is legally required to look into your complaint, and the investigation must be finished within seven days of the submission. Any other investigation has to be completed within one month.

Speak To Our Nursing Home Abuse Lawyers In Illinois Now

Following the steps in this article is a good start to dealing with a potential nursing home abuse incident. However, you should also contact an attorney to ensure your loved one’s rights are respected. Our nursing home abuse lawyers in Illinois are determined to stand up for the rights of seniors in the state who suffer nursing home abuse. Contact the The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens today at (847) 395-2200 for a consultation.

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Never Accept An Insurance Settlement Without An Attorney

Insurance settlement

Suppose you were in a Waukegan car accident and broke your arm when it slammed into the steering wheel. Rather than hire an attorney to handle the case, you decide to negotiate with the at-fault driver’s insurance company yourself. Unfortunately, you settle only for your current medical bills and no additional compensation. You may have been entitled to further compensation but were unaware of it.

Scenarios like this one occur all too often in Illinois personal injury cases. If you were hurt in a recent Waukegan accident caused by another party, you should have your case reviewed by experienced Cook County personal injury attorneys in Waukegan. The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. may be able to obtain money for your economic and non-economic losses.

Why Negotiating Without An Attorney Is Usually A Mistake

Many accidents in Waukegan involve two or more vehicles on a street or highway. You must deal with the other driver’s insurance company if the other driver hits and injures you. When speaking to their insurance company, it is essential to remember you are talking to experienced insurance negotiators whose goal is to give you the smallest possible settlement.

The insurance company also has attorneys who will work at every possibility to reduce or deny your claim outright. Unless you are an experienced insurance professional or personal injury attorney, being represented by a lawyer during settlement negotiations is best.

The Insurance Company Knows You

They may not know everything, but they almost certainly know:

  • You are injured and what the injuries are.
  • You have bills to pay and wages you are not earning.
  • You need cash to pay your medical bills and other expenses.
  • You might need help to understand your rights under Illinois personal injury laws.

The insurance company will use this information to manipulate you and even make you think that you do not have a valid claim. Or, they will try to convince you the claim is worth much less than it is.

Insurance Companies Take You More Seriously With An Attorney

When the insurance company understands a skilled litigator is representing you, their tactics become less effective. This is because experienced personal injury attorneys like Robert T. Edens know the law and how to negotiate for the most money. They also know how to find and preserve critical accident evidence to prove the other party was at fault.

Clients Represented By Attorneys Often Get Larger Settlements

In 1999, the Insurance Research Council first determined that injury victims represented by an attorney received settlements 3.5 times higher than those who represented themselves. Additional research has been conducted on this subject since then, which is still true today. So, having an attorney represent you can lead to more money in your pocket, even after accounting for the legal fees you are charged.

Talk To Our Cook County Personal Injury Attorneys In Waukegan

If you reside in Waukegan and are the victim of an accident caused by someone else, our Cook County personal injury attorneys in Waukegan at The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens can help. Our attorneys have more than 20 years of experience holding negligent parties accountable in car and other types of accidents. Speak to our personal injury attorneys today at (847) 395-2200.