If you have been injured in a car crash, you may want to get in touch with an Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyer from Therman Law Offices, LTD. You may be entitled to compensation. An attorney can help you file a timely claim against the negligent party.
Car Accident Lawsuit Basics: Essential Knowledge
If you’ve recently been injured in a motor vehicle collision, it is time to speak with an experienced Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyer about your rights and options under the law. Otherwise, you could spend years of your life wondering “What if?” you had pursued any and all compensation to which you were rightfully entitled. By connecting with the dedicated team at Therman Law Offices, LTD., you could discover that you are in a position to mitigate the ways in which your crash is affecting your family’s finances.
As you’re preparing to meet with a client-focused Arlington Heights car accident lawyer on our team, consider the following “essential” information that everyone should understand in the wake of an accident. In the event that this information sparks any questions or concerns, write your thoughts down and bring them to your consultation. That way, we can make sure to address each of them in turn.
One: You may be entitled to compensation even if you were partially at fault
In Illinois, you may be up to 50% at fault for your own injurious circumstances and still be in a position to pursue damages from other parties whose negligence, recklessness, or intentionally dangerous conduct directly contributed to the cause(s) of your harm. This is due to a legal theory known as modified comparative negligence, which has been adopted by the majority of states to one degree or another.
Two: You may have legal options, even if you were the victim of a hit and run
If a motor vehicle operator struck you or your vehicle and then fled the scene, you may be under the impression that there is nothing to be done. Rest assured that, under a number of different circumstances, hit-and-run victims remain entitled to at least one form of compensation. Speaking with an attorney can help you to assess your rights and options.
Three: If your loved one died in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your loss
Wrongful death claims may generally be filed by closely-related surviving loved ones or the representative of a deceased injury victim’s estate. Most of the time, grounds upon which eligible actors may file a wrongful death lawsuit arise in the event that the victim would have been able to successfully file a personal injury lawsuit on their own behalf, had they survived their injuries.
Four: What you say online could undermine the strength of your case
It is now common practice for insurance claims adjusters and opposing counsel to scroll through an injury victim’s social media accounts for any activity that could be used to undermine their claims. As a result, it is critically important to take care when utilizing social media until your legal case has been fully resolved.
Five: Yes, you should speak with an attorney about your situation
All too often, injury victims are under the impression that they do not need to seek legal counsel if they have a strong case to make. Unfortunately, even the most deserving self-represented litigants are statistically likely to be utterly unsuccessful in pursuing rightful compensation without the assistance of a legal professional. By connecting with a knowledgeable Arlington Heights car accident lawyer at Therman Law Offices, LTD., you’ll place yourself in a much stronger position to secure what is rightfully yours.
How to Avoid Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of car accidents in Illinois. When drivers do not have their complete attention on the road ahead, they are more likely to cause a crash. Here are some different ways to avoid distracted driving.
- Put your cell phone out of reach. Whether it is talking on the phone or texting, cell phone use is one of the most common forms of distracted driving. If you use your cell phone while behind the wheel, you can’t keep your eyes and focus on the road ahead. If you are always tempted to use your cell phone while driving, put it out of reach, like in your back seat.
- Groom at home. When people are running late in the morning, they might brush their hair or do their makeup in the car. Unfortunately, this can increase the risk of a car accident. When you groom yourself, you are forced to take at least one hand off the wheel. You may also have trouble concentrating on the road. That is why you should always groom yourself before you leave the house, even if you have to wake up earlier.
- Do not eat or drink. As an Arlington Heights car accident attorney can attest, eating or drinking while behind the wheel can increase chances of getting into an accident. Although eating or drinking behind the wheel might be convenient and save you time, it is not safe. Make sure to eat and drink before you get on the road.
- Avoid deep conversations. If you have passengers in your vehicle, you likely want to talk to them, especially if you are driving long distances. While it is okay to have basic conversations, you should avoid talking about anything too deep while behind the wheel. If you are discussing a deep subject, you may have trouble focusing your entire attention on the road.
- Get plenty of sleep. It is never a good idea to operate a vehicle when you are feeling drowsy. When you are very tired, you may have a much harder time focusing on the road ahead and get distracted easier. Try to get eight hours of sleep at night.
- Set up your GPS beforehand. When you are traveling somewhere unfamiliar, it can be very helpful to use a GPS system. However, you should avoid fiddling around with your GPS while behind the wheel. Set up your GPS before you head out on the road to avoid taking your hands off the wheel.
Understanding Driver Fatigue
An Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyer can help if you’ve been involved in a collision with a fatigued driver. Read on to learn more about driver fatigue, and get in touch with the professionals at Therman Law Offices, LTD for a free consultation.
- What Is Driver Fatigue?
Driver fatigue is pretty self-explanatory: It’s any time a driver is too tired to safely operate a motor vehicle. Most people assume this means “not enough sleep”, but it applies to a variety of circumstances. A driver may experience driver fatigue if he or she had an intense workout at the gym, or had to work overtime at the office.
Driver fatigue can be hazardous, not just for the driver, but for others on the road. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of driver fatigue so you can avoid causing and accidents on your commute.
- What Are The Warning Signs Of Driver Fatigue?
There are many different signs of driver fatigue. Behind the wheel, tiredness can take different shapes. Some fatigued drivers may swerve into other lanes or experience slowed reaction times, and others may be more likely to take extra risks on the road.
If you’re driving but you suddenly can’t remember where the last couple of minutes (or miles) went, it’s a pretty strong sign that you’re experiencing driver fatigue. It’s important to know what to look out for when you’re on the road, and it’s important to know who’s most at risk of driver fatigue.
- Who Is Most At Risk?
Driver fatigue can affect anyone. If your work prevents you from adequately resting before you head home, or you’re just not getting enough sleep, you’re more at risk of driver fatigue affecting how you handle your vehicle.
On the other hand, diet, exercise, and health play a factor in driver fatigue as well. Eating heavy meals before getting on the road can make you feel more tired, and working out hard before buckling up for a long drive means you may be too exhausted to safely drive as well. There’s also the risk of medications causing drowsiness.
- How Can I Avoid Driver Fatigue?
There’s only so much caffeine, loud music, and full A/C can do for you if you’re exhausted. Everyone has their own tips and tricks for avoiding driver fatigue, but unless it involves getting adequate rest before hitting the road, those tips and tricks don’t work.
If you want to avoid driver fatigue, avoid driving while tired. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, and make sure you aren’t eating anything too heavy before a drive. If you have to take any medication that may induce drowsiness, talk to your medical professionals about how to minimize your side effects. And worse case, pull over someplace where you can get some rest.
- When Should I Contact A Lawyer?
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a fatigued driver (or you were fatigued when you were involved in an accident) you should get in touch with a lawyer who can help you manage your case. Every car accident is different, and insurance providers are usually pretty slow to release that much-needed money.
The right legal team can help you get the money you need from your insurance provider, and anyone else who may have been responsible for your injuries. Get in touch with Therman Law Offices, LTD today, and see how an Arlington Heights car accident lawyer from our office can help.
Tips When Filing a Car Accident Claim
As a trusted Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyer will advise you, you should gather as much information and evidence for your case as soon as you can. This includes obtaining the other party’s contact and insurance details, taking photographs of the accident scene, and collecting witness statements if possible. The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be. It is also important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and a medical report will serve as valuable evidence for your claim.
Inform your insurance company immediately following an accident. Most insurance policies have a deadline for reporting accidents, so make sure to inform them within the specified timeframe. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident, including any injuries sustained and damages to your vehicle.
How to Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Speaking with insurance companies to conduct negotiations is a challenging task that is best left to a trusted Arlington Heights car accident lawyer. These companies often aim to minimize their financial liability, which may result in low settlement offers.
Here are some effective strategies to help you negotiate with insurance companies:
When you are working on a case, be as organized and prepared as possible. Gather all the necessary documentation, such as medical records, repair estimates, and any other evidence relevant to your claim. Presenting a strong case with supporting evidence will help you negotiate from a position of strength. Understand the value of your claim. Research the average settlement amounts for similar cases in your area. This will give you a baseline figure and help you evaluate whether the insurance company’s offer is fair or not. Maintain clear and concise communication. Keep records of all conversations with insurance adjusters and ensure that any agreements or promises made are documented in writing. Avoid providing recorded statements without consulting your attorney.
Types of Evidence in a Car Accident
It is important that you build a compelling body of evidence to support your case. Photographs and videos of the accident scene, showing the vehicles involved, damage sustained, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. Eyewitness statements from individuals who saw the accident occur. Their testimony can provide valuable insights into what happened and help establish fault. Police reports, which document the details of the accident, including statements from drivers, witnesses, and any citations issued. These reports often carry significant weight in determining liability. Medical records and bills that demonstrate the injuries sustained and the resulting medical expenses. They serve as evidence of the physical and financial impact of the accident. Expert opinions, such as accident reconstruction reports or statements from medical professionals, can provide objective analysis and clarification on complex issues, helping to support your claim.
Consult with an experienced car accident attorney. They can guide you through the entire claims process, ensure your rights are protected, and help you navigate any legal complexities that may arise. Contact a skilled Arlington Heights car accident lawyer from Therman Law Offices, LTD who will be able to determine what compensation you deserve as a victim.
Car Accident Lawyer FAQ
How can car accidents affect those involved?
Car accidents are life-altering incidents that can lead to severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardships. The aftermath of such a tragic event can be overwhelming, often filled with countless medical appointments, dealing with insurance companies, and struggling to cope with the new reality. Located in Arlington Heights, Illinois, Therman Law Offices, LTDl specializes in representing clients who have been injured in car accidents. After an accident, it’s critical to have a knowledgeable and compassionate Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyer by your side who will guide you through the legal process.
In what ways are car accident lawyers equipped to handle their client’s cases?
Understanding the specific local laws and regulations that govern auto accidents is crucial. A skilled car accident lawyer will also comprehend how insurance companies operate and the tactics they use to reduce the compensation you deserve. By employing a strategic approach and aggressive negotiation techniques, car accident lawyers work to ensure that you get the maximum possible compensation for your damages, pain, and suffering. Experienced car accident lawyes handle a wide range of car accident cases, from minor fender-benders to severe accidents resulting in catastrophic injuries or even death.
What do the investigations that car accident lawyers perform look like?
Arlington Heights car accident lawyers work diligently to compile evidence, enlist expert witnesses, and build a compelling case. Each case is treated with the same level of importance, regardless of its size or complexity. Comprehensive services may include but are not limited to: investigating the accident scene, consulting with medical experts, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking the case to trial. Car accident lawyers are prepared to go the extra mile to get you the justice you deserve. Their goal is to alleviate your stress and make the legal process as seamless and understandable as possible.
How do car accident lawyers deal with insurance companies?
Leveraging decades of experience, meticulous attention to detail, and tireless commitment, attorneys aim to secure the best possible outcome for their clients in an often-complicated legal landscape. When it comes to dealing with insurance companies, car accident lawyers are skilled at cutting through their red tape. Insurance companies often aim to minimize their liability, offering lower settlements that don’t adequately cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Experienced car accident attorneys advocate for your rights and fight to secure the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Why should clients hire a car accident lawyer?
Car accident lawyers are committed to maintaining open lines of communication with our clients. They understand that you are likely to have many questions and concerns throughout this process and pledge to provide timely and clear responses. A car accident can upend your life in an instant. The road to recovery can be long and arduous, and the last thing you need is to navigate the complex legal system alone. If you’ve been injured in a car accident don’t hesitate to contact a Alrington Heights car accident lawyer today to schedule a risk-free consultation.
When it comes to car accidents in Arlington, IL, having a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer by your side is crucial to navigating the complexities of the legal system. Over the years, several important cases have shaped the landscape of car accident law in Arlington, setting precedents that guide how such cases are handled. Three noteworthy cases that have had a significant impact on car accident litigation in Arlington are Staver v. Illinois Department of Transportation, Gonzalez v. Uber, and Reyes v. Allstate Insurance.
Staver v. Illinois Department of Transportation was a landmark case that highlighted the importance of maintaining safe road conditions and promptly addressing hazards. In this case, the plaintiff, Mr. Staver, was involved in a severe car accident due to a large pothole on a major highway in Arlington, IL. The accident resulted in substantial injuries and significant property damage. The plaintiff filed a lawsuit against the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), claiming that they had been negligent in maintaining the road.
The court ruled in favor of Mr. Staver, emphasizing that the IDOT had a duty to maintain safe roadways for motorists. Negligence in road maintenance and failure to address hazardous conditions were deemed responsible for the accident. This verdict set a crucial precedent, reminding governmental agencies and road authorities to take appropriate measures promptly in addressing road hazards to ensure the safety of drivers in Arlington and throughout Illinois.
Another important case that has had a profound impact on car accident litigation is Gonzalez v. Uber. This case revolved around a car accident involving an Uber driver in Arlington, IL. The plaintiff, Mr. Gonzalez, was a passenger in the Uber vehicle when the driver, who was logged into the Uber app, caused a collision. The plaintiff sought damages from both the Uber driver and Uber Technologies, Inc., claiming that the company should be held liable for the driver’s actions.
The court’s decision established a significant precedent in determining liability in ridesharing accidents. It was ruled that Uber could be held accountable for the actions of its drivers while they are logged into the app and actively seeking passengers. This ruling brought clarity to the responsibilities of ridesharing companies like Uber and emphasized the importance of adequate insurance coverage for both drivers and passengers involved in accidents.
Reyes v. Allstate Insurance was a case that had far-reaching implications for insurance claims related to car accidents in Arlington, IL. In this case, the plaintiff, Mr. Reyes, was injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another driver. Mr. Reyes sought compensation from his own insurance company, Allstate, under the underinsured motorist coverage of his policy.
Allstate denied the claim, arguing that the plaintiff’s injuries were not severe enough to warrant compensation under the policy. However, the court ruled in favor of Mr. Reyes, stating that the policy language was clear and that he was entitled to the coverage he had paid for. This ruling emphasized the importance of clear and transparent insurance policies and held insurance companies accountable for fulfilling their obligations to policyholders.
The above-discussed cases—Staver v. Illinois Department of Transportation, Gonzalez v. Uber, and Reyes v. Allstate Insurance—have played a significant role in shaping car accident law in Arlington, IL. These cases have highlighted the responsibilities of road authorities, clarified liability in ridesharing accidents, and emphasized the importance of fair insurance practices. If you find yourself involved in a car accident in Arlington, seeking the counsel of an experienced car accident lawyer is essential to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Arlington Heights Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you should schedule a consultation with an Arlington Heights car accident lawyer from Therman Law Offices, LTD today to discuss your case in detail.