Des Plaines Car Accident Lawyer

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of modern life. Understanding their common causes can help us be more vigilant on the road and potentially prevent these tragic incidents. As we explore these causes, it’s crucial to remember that if you’re involved in an accident, seeking legal assistance, such as from a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, can be invaluable. Therman Law Offices, LTD, with their expertise in this field, can offer the guidance and support needed during such difficult times.

Distraction and Inattention

One of the most common causes of car accidents is driver distraction and inattention. This can include anything from texting while driving, to eating, to adjusting the radio. These distractions take the driver’s focus away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident. We at Therman Law Offices, LTD, have seen numerous cases where a momentary lapse in attention has led to severe consequences. It’s important to stay focused and alert at all times while driving.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is another leading cause of car accidents. Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, such as a car stopping abruptly or a pedestrian crossing the street. Reckless driving behaviors like aggressive lane changes or not adhering to traffic rules also contribute significantly to accidents. If you’re involved in an accident caused by speeding or reckless driving, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, can help you understand your legal options.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a major factor in car accidents, often leading to fatal outcomes. These substances impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making it extremely dangerous to be behind the wheel. If you’re involved in an accident with a driver under the influence, it’s crucial to seek legal assistance. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we have the expertise to navigate these complex situations and provide the support you need.

Weather Conditions

Poor weather conditions like rain, snow, ice, and fog can also lead to accidents. These conditions affect road traction and visibility, making driving hazardous. It’s important to drive cautiously in bad weather and consider postponing your trip if conditions are too severe. If you’re caught in an accident due to poor weather, it’s wise to contact a car accident lawyer to discuss your case.

Mechanical Failures

Sometimes, accidents are caused by mechanical failures in the vehicle, such as brake failure, tire blowouts, or steering issues. Regular maintenance and vehicle check-ups can help prevent such incidents. However, if a mechanical failure that’s not your fault leads to an accident, legal advice from professionals like Therman Law Offices, LTD can be crucial in seeking compensation.

Understanding the common causes of car accidents is key to prevention. However, if you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation, remember that you’re not alone. We, at Therman Law Offices, LTD, are here to help. As experienced car accident lawyers in Des Plaines, IL, we offer professional guidance and support to navigate the aftermath of an accident. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. Remember, safety on the road is paramount, and being aware of these common causes can make all the difference.

Types of Injuries in Car Accidents

Car accidents, regardless of their severity, can lead to a range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting impacts on the lives of those involved. As we delve into the various types of injuries commonly associated with car accidents, it’s crucial to remember the importance of seeking legal guidance in such situations. Therman Law Offices, LTD, specializes in handling these cases and can offer invaluable assistance.

Whiplash and Neck Injuries

One of the most common injuries from car accidents is whiplash. This occurs when the force of the collision causes the head to jerk back and forth rapidly, leading to neck strain. Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. While some people recover quickly, others may experience chronic neck pain and other long-term issues.

Head and Brain Injuries

Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), are a serious concern in car accidents. These can range from concussions to more severe brain damage. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, memory problems, and, in more severe cases, changes in personality or cognitive abilities. TBIs can have lasting effects on an individual’s life, affecting their ability to work and perform daily activities.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

The impact of a car accident can cause significant harm to the back and spinal cord. Injuries can range from herniated discs and lower back pain to spinal cord damage, which in severe cases, can lead to paralysis. These injuries can be particularly debilitating, often requiring long-term medical treatment and physical therapy.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones and fractures are also common in car accidents. The force of a collision can easily break bones, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Recovery can be a lengthy process, sometimes requiring surgery and physical therapy, and can significantly impact a person’s daily life and mobility.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are a serious concern in car accidents. These can include internal bleeding, organ damage, and other injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Such injuries require immediate medical attention, as they can be life-threatening if left untreated.

The Importance of Medical Attention and Legal Assistance

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a car accident, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, especially internal ones or TBIs, may not show symptoms immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for recovery.

In addition to medical care, legal assistance is equally important. Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, especially when it involves injuries, can be overwhelming. We at Therman Law Offices, LTD, understand the complexities involved in such cases. Our expertise in handling car accident injury claims can provide you with the necessary support to navigate the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses.

Car accidents can lead to a range of injuries, each with its own set of challenges and impacts on an individual’s life. Understanding these injuries is important for both prevention and dealing with the aftermath of an accident. Should you ever find yourself or a loved one in such a situation, remember that we at Therman Law Offices, LTD are here to help. Our experienced team is committed to providing professional and compassionate legal assistance to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the best possible outcome. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and seeking prompt medical and legal assistance is key to your recovery journey.

Steps to Take if You’re Partially at Fault in an Accident

Do Not Admit Fault

In the immediate aftermath of an accident, emotions and stress can run high. It’s crucial, however, to be mindful of your statements and actions. One key piece of advice is to avoid admitting fault or responsibility at the scene. This is not just about denying blame, but rather about not making any definitive statements before all facts are known. Even seemingly innocuous remarks like “I’m sorry” can be misconstrued or used against you in legal or insurance proceedings. Remember, determining fault is a complex process that involves an examination of all evidence, not just your perspective of the events.

Document Everything

In today’s world, where smartphones are nearly always at hand, documenting the accident scene has become easier and can significantly impact the outcome of any legal or insurance claims. Immediately after ensuring all parties are safe and notifying the authorities, begin by taking photographs of the accident scene from various angles, capturing the positions of the vehicles, any skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs or signals. Additionally, it’s crucial to gather the contact information of all parties involved, including witnesses. Their accounts of the event can be invaluable. Alongside this, keep a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident – from medical bills to repair costs and any lost wages due to injury. These documents form the bedrock of your claim and are vital for insurance and legal processes.

Seek Medical Attention

Often in the chaos following an accident, adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries may not be immediately apparent. It is always advisable to seek medical attention, even if you feel unharmed. This serves a dual purpose: ensuring your health is not at risk and providing medical documentation of your condition post-accident. Such records are crucial evidence, particularly in cases where injuries manifest symptoms days or weeks later. They link your physical condition directly to the accident, which is essential in proving the extent and impact of your injuries.

Consult an Attorney

Finally, before engaging with insurance companies, seek the counsel of a qualified attorney. An attorney experienced in handling accident cases can provide invaluable advice on how to navigate the complexities of your case, especially when you are partially at fault. They can help articulate your position, safeguard your rights, and guide you through the intricacies of insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. Consulting an attorney early in the process ensures you are equipped with the necessary legal advice to make informed decisions and helps in strategizing a course of action that best protects your interests.

Proving Negligence

Proving negligence is a fundamental aspect of many legal cases, particularly in personal injury law. When an individual or entity fails to act with the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would in similar circumstances, it can lead to accidents or injuries for which they may be held legally responsible. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we understand the complexities of proving negligence and are committed to guiding our clients through this intricate process.

Understanding Negligence

Negligence is based on the principle that individuals and entities have a duty to act in a way that does not cause harm to others. To establish negligence in a legal context, four key elements must be proven:

• Duty of Care: Establishing that the defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff.
• Breach of Duty: Demonstrating that the defendant breached that duty through action or inaction.
• Causation: Proving that the defendant’s breach of duty caused the plaintiff’s injury.
• Damages: Showing that the plaintiff suffered actual damages or losses as a result.

Duty of Care and Breach

The first step in proving negligence is establishing a duty of care. This duty varies depending on the relationship between the parties and the situation. For example, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely to avoid harming others on the road.

Once a duty of care is established, it must be shown that the defendant breached that duty. This breach can be an action (like running a red light) or a failure to act (such as not fixing a known hazard on a property). We at Therman Law Offices, LTD, focus on gathering evidence to demonstrate this breach, which can include witness statements, surveillance footage, or expert testimony.

Causation

Causation is perhaps the most complex element, as it involves proving that the defendant’s breach of duty directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries. This is where the concept of “but for” causation comes into play – but for the defendant’s actions, the plaintiff would not have been injured. Proving causation can sometimes be straightforward, but in cases involving multiple factors or pre-existing conditions, it can become more complicated. Our team is skilled in constructing a clear link between the breach of duty and the injuries sustained.

Damages

The final element is proving that the plaintiff suffered actual damages due to the defendant’s negligence. Damages can be physical, such as injuries requiring medical treatment, or they can be non-physical, like emotional distress or loss of earnings. Documenting these damages is crucial and can include medical records, bills, proof of lost wages, and other relevant documentation.

Proving negligence is a critical component in many personal injury cases. It requires a deep understanding of legal principles, a meticulous approach to gathering evidence, and the ability to construct persuasive arguments. We at Therman Law Offices, LTD, are dedicated to providing our clients with comprehensive legal representation in their pursuit of justice. If you believe you have been a victim of someone else’s negligence, we encourage you to reach out to us. We are here to assess your situation, explain your legal options, and tirelessly advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. Remember, in the realm of personal injury law, proving negligence is the key to unlocking the path to recovery and justice.

What To Do After A Car Accident

Car accidents can be disorienting and stressful experiences. Knowing the right steps to take immediately after an accident not only ensures your safety but also protects your legal rights. As specialists in this field, we at Therman Law Offices, LTD, recommend following a structured approach if you find yourself in such a situation. Our guidance, along with the expertise of a Car Accident Lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, can make a significant difference in handling the aftermath of an accident.

Ensuring Safety and Health

• Check for Injuries: The first and most important step is to check yourself and others for injuries. If someone is injured, call 911 immediately.
• Move to Safety: If the accident is minor and your car is causing a hazard, move it to the side of the road, if possible. However, if the vehicle is severely damaged or there’s a risk of further injury, it’s best to leave it where it is.

Reporting the Accident

• Notify the Police: Even for minor accidents, it’s important to call the police. A police report can be crucial in documenting the accident and is often required when filing insurance claims.
• Document the Scene: Take photographs of the vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, and injuries, if any. These can serve as valuable evidence later.

Exchange Information

• Gather Information from Other Parties: Exchange names, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information with all parties involved. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
• Be Mindful of What You Say: It’s important not to admit fault or make statements that could be used against you in a legal or insurance context.

Seek Medical Attention

• Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if you feel fine, some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, might not be immediately apparent. A medical evaluation creates a record of your physical condition after the accident, which is vital if injuries manifest later.

Dealing with Insurance

• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be factual about the incident, but remember not to admit fault.
• Understand Your Policy: Review your insurance policy to understand the coverages you have, including liability, collision, and medical payments.

Legal Assistance

• Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: Especially in cases where fault is disputed or injuries are significant, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, is a wise decision. At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we can guide you through the legal complexities that follow a car accident.
• Keep Records: Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies.

Follow-Up

• Stay Organized: Keep a file with all accident-related documents and notes. This should include a log of conversations with insurance companies, medical providers, and law enforcement.
• Monitor Your Health: Follow up with healthcare providers if new symptoms develop or existing conditions worsen.

In the event of a car accident, taking the right steps is crucial for your safety, health, and legal rights. Always prioritize immediate safety and health concerns, document the scene, and exchange necessary information. Be prudent in dealing with insurance companies and seek medical attention, regardless of how you feel immediately after the accident. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. We, at Therman Law Offices, LTD, are equipped to offer you comprehensive guidance and support, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process. If you find yourself in need of a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, remember that we are here to help you navigate through these challenging times.

Car Accident in Des Plaines, IL Statistics

In the first half of 2023, Illinois experienced a significant number of fatal car accidents. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 654 fatalities resulting from 600 fatal crashes.

Car Accident FAQs

What should I do if the other driver involved in the accident in Des Plaines, IL, flees the scene?

If you find yourself in a hit-and-run situation in Des Plaines, IL, try to gather as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle, such as the make, model, color, and any part of the license plate number. Immediately call the police to report the incident. Avoid chasing the other driver, as this can be dangerous. Instead, look for witnesses and ask if they can provide any additional details about the vehicle or the direction it went. Report this incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. It’s also advisable to consult with a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, to understand your legal options, especially in a hit-and-run case.

How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Des Plaines, IL?

In Des Plaines, IL, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. This time frame applies to personal injury claims. If you’re filing a claim for property damage, such as vehicle repair, the statute of limitations is five years. It’s crucial to initiate legal proceedings within these time frames, as failing to do so can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation. Given the complexities of legal deadlines, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Des Plaines, IL, as soon as possible after your accident is a prudent step.

Can I claim compensation if I was a passenger in a car accident in Des Plaines, IL?

Yes, as a passenger involved in a car accident in Des Plaines, IL, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Passengers can file claims against the driver or drivers responsible for the accident. This includes filing a claim against the driver of the vehicle you were in, if they were at fault. The compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It’s important to gather all necessary documentation, including medical reports and bills, to support your claim. Consulting with a car accident lawyer can help you understand the process and ensure your rights are fully protected.

What types of damages can I recover in a car accident lawsuit in Des Plaines, IL?

In a car accident lawsuit in Des Plaines, IL, you may be entitled to various types of damages. These include economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. You can also claim non-economic damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In certain cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the defendant’s conduct is found to be especially harmful or reckless. The specific damages available will depend on the details of your case, and a skilled car accident lawyer can help assess the full extent of your potential compensation.

What if the other driver in the accident doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver involved in your car accident in Des Plaines, IL, is uninsured, you still have options for seeking compensation. You can turn to your own insurance policy if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage is designed to compensate you for injuries and damages if the at-fault driver has no insurance. Additionally, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can help if the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover all your damages. It’s important to review your insurance policy and consult with a car accident lawyer to understand the coverage available to you and how to navigate the claim process in such scenarios.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

At Therman Law Offices, LTD, we stand firmly in the face of insurance companies who use immoral strategies to take advantage of innocent injured people. We practice law so that our clients can feel protected and know that they have someone to advocate for them during a difficult time. If you were injured in a car accident or another personal injury incident, that is something we can handle.

Without our assistance, you may fall victim again to an insurance company who does not have your best interest at heart. You can trust that a Des Plaines car accident lawyer knows the law and that will keep you at the forefront of their mind. We won’t accept less than what you deserve. Call today to learn the true value of your claim and have us advocate for you.