Illinois is a fault-based state when it comes to car accidents. In simple terms, this means that if you are injured in an accident caused by another driver or third party, you have the right to seek compensation from them without having to go through your own insurance policy first. At the same time, the laws governing car accidents are quite complex. So it is important to work with an experienced car accident attorney who can review your case and advise you of your rights. SAM LAW OFFICE LLC provides skilled and compassionate representation to accident victims in Cook County, Illinois, who are dealing with serious injuries.
If you are involved in an auto accident, it is important to notify local law enforcement as soon as possible. This is required by Illinois law. In general, you should contact either the local police department for the municipality or the Illinois State Police, depending on where your crash occurred.Â
You also have a legal duty to remain at the scene of the accident and exchange information with the other drivers involved. Keep in mind that you should not discuss the accident itself or admit fault or responsibility. Rather, the law only requires you to exchange your name, contact information, vehicle registration number, and the name of the owner’s vehicle if you were driving someone else’s car. Of course, you should also call 911 if anyone, including yourself, appears injured and requires emergency medical attention.
If a police officer responds at the scene of the accident, they will prepare and file a written accident report within 10 days. If an officer does not attend the scene, however, then you and the other drivers involved are responsible for filing a written accident report if the crash resulted in injury or death or caused property damage exceeding a certain threshold.
You should also contact a qualified Illinois car accident attorney as soon as possible. Illinois has a strict deadline for filing personal injury claims known as the statute of limitations. For most car accident lawsuits, that deadline is two years from the date of the crash. While this might sound like more than enough time to take legal action, in many cases, it may take several months to complete an investigation into the circumstances of your car accident. So the sooner you engage an experienced attorney, the more time you leave yourself to make sure you have fully investigated all of the persons who may be responsible for your injuries.
In a successful personal injury claim following a car accident, victims can seek a wide range of economic and non-economic damages under Illinois law. This includes compensation for the victim’s medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The specific types and amounts of damages will vary depending on the facts of the case, however, which is why it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible following a car accident.
If you need to speak with a car accident attorney near you who understands the law in Cook County and Illinois, contact the SAM LAW OFFICE LLC today to schedule a free initial consultation.