Auto accidents are certainly the leading cause behind most injuries and fatalities in the United States. With a plethora of vehicles on the road with inexperienced and careless drivers, auto
accidents are becoming a normality. Multiple sources indicate that a significant number of Americans sustain injuries in auto accidents each year.
For example, in 2022, there were over 2.38 million people injured in motor vehicle crashes in the US according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and an estimated 3 million adults sustain traffic-related injuries annually, according to the National Institutes of Health with an additional 2.6 million emergency department visits related to car accidents
In most cases, auto accidents are caused by the negligence of one of the drivers involved. Whereas, in some cases, auto accidents are caused by faulty equipment used by the car manufacturer.
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.
Every accident is different from one another, therefore the liability of the auto accident has to be established according to the events that led to the accident. For instance, a faulty traffic light which leads to an accident places the liability on the local authorities responsible for maintaining traffic lights. Or, an accident caused by the failure of a vehicle’s braking mechanism can be used to establish liability on the car manufacturer. In short, any person or entity whose actions or negligence directly caused the accidents which resulted in injury or death can be held liable. Once the liability is established, the court will calculate the rightful and reasonable compensation for your physical, monetary and emotional loss.
In cases, where a person loses his or her life, their next of kin can file a wrongful death claim and get compensated for the death of their loved one. Although money can never be an adequate compensation for the life of a dear family member, it can help the families overcome the financial loss.
Car accidents can be incredibly stressful and disorienting, but knowing how to respond in the aftermath is crucial for protecting your safety, legal rights, and financial interests. Whether you find yourself involved in a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, following these comprehensive steps can significantly enhance your recovery process and help mitigate complications.
Your immediate priority should be the safety of everyone involved. If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to a designated safe area away from oncoming traffic to avoid further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the situation and to prevent additional accidents. Carefully check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, contact emergency services by calling 911 right away. Even if injuries appear minor, it is advisable to seek medical attention, as some symptoms, such as internal injuries or whiplash, may develop later.
Regardless of the severity of the accident, it is important to call the police to the scene. Law enforcement officers can provide valuable assistance by documenting the details of the incident, mediating discussions between those involved, and conducting necessary investigations. They will also complete an official accident report, which is essential for filing insurance claims and may play a critical role in any legal matters that arise as a result of the accident.
It is vital to exchange information with the other driver involved in the accident. Make sure to collect and document the following details: – Full name and contact information of the other driver – Driver’s license number – Vehicle registration details, including the license plate number – Insurance provider name and policy number If there were any witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information, as their statements can be crucial in resolving disputes or providing corroborating evidence for insurance claims.
Use your smartphone or a camera to take clear, well-lit photos of the accident scene. Aim to capture: – Damage to all vehicles involved, showing any significant impacts and deformities – The surrounding road conditions, including pavement quality, visibility, and weather conditions – Traffic signs or signals relevant to the incident – Skid marks, debris, and any other physical evidence that may help in determining fault – Any visible injuries sustained by you or others involved These photographs can be invaluable for insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings, offering a factual representation of what transpired.
As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance provider. This should be done within the timeframe specified in your policy to avoid any issues. Provide accurate and detailed information about the accident, including facts you collected and documentation you gathered. It is crucial to avoid admitting fault or speculating about what caused the accident during this discussion, as that could negatively impact your claim.
Even if you feel fine immediately following the accident, it is essential to visit a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation. Some injuries, particularly those related to soft tissue or internal organs, might not be immediately noticeable. A thorough medical examination can help identify any hidden injuries and create an official medical report, which is beneficial in supporting claims related to the accident and ensuring you receive proper medical care.
If your accident involves injuries, disputes over liability, or complications with insurance claims, it is wise to seek legal advice. Consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in auto accidents can help you understand your rights and obligations. An experienced lawyer can assist in navigating through the complexities of insurance negotiations and litigation, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement for your losses. By adhering to these detailed steps, you can better protect yourself, enhance your safety, and streamline your recovery process after an auto accident. Always remember to remain calm, act responsibly, and prioritize the safety of everyone involved
The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. is an Antioch Personal Injury Law firm representing injury victims throughout Northern Illinois and the entire state. For more than two decades, Bob has been fighting for the rights of injury victims and injured workers and has been successful in obtaining desirable outcomes for his injured clients. Bob and his staff will provide you the personalized attention you deserve and the aggressive representation you need.
If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident, contact our law office today for a free consultation by calling (847) 395-2200. Bob will fight on your behalf to get the compensation you deserve. In most cases, we will get back to you within 24 hours.
The Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, Personal Injury and Workers' Compensation Law Office, have offices in Antioch, Waukegan, Grayslake, Woodstock and Barrington. We represent clients throughout the communities of Antioch, Waukegan, Grayslake, Barrington, Woodstock, Buffalo Grove, Deer Park, Gurnee, Lake Zurich, Round Lake, McHenry, Cary, Crystal Lake, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Mundelein, Vernon Hills, Wheeling, North Chicago, Zion, Inverness, Palatine, Wauconda, Island Lake, Fox Lake, Barrington Hills, Spring Grove, Lake Bluff, Lakemoor, Long Grove, Lake Villa, Kildeer, Wadsworth, Indian Creek, Fox River Grove, Lindenhurst and other cities within Lake and McHenry Counties Illinois.
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