Best Automobile Accident Attorneys
Auto Accident Lawyers
Being one of the most populous states in the country, there are countless vehicles on the road in Illinois every day—especially during rush hour. Whether driving on Chicago’s iconic Lake Shore Drive or cruising the farm country, auto accidents are an unfortunate and often unavoidable reality that often results in serious injuries.
If you or a loved one has been involved in an auto accident of any kind (motorcycle, truck, car, or any other type of vehicle), if another driver’s negligence caused it, it’s important to seek legal counsel from an auto accident lawyer immediately.
Working with your insurance company is not enough. An experienced personal injury law firm can ensure you receive maximum compensation to recover medical treatment bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, and accommodations relating to your home or automobile.
Common damages may include but are not limited to the following:
- medical expenses,
- emergency room expenses,
- future related medical costs,
- pain and suffering,
- lost wages,
- loss of future wages stemming from an inability to work,
- loss of a normal life,
- property damage,
- reconstructive surgery expenses,
- loss of consortium,
- wrongful death and
- other non-economic damages.
Why Choose Susan E. Loggans & Associates P.C. for Your Auto Accident Claim?
Dr. Susan E. Loggans is not only an experienced car accident lawyer; she is a trailblazer. A pioneer. And a fierce advocate for justice.
Loggans and her experienced team of personal injury lawyers believe in building a trustworthy attorney-client relationship. They don’t step back and let others handle your case; they personally manage and oversee every legal proceeding, ensuring you receive every penny owed to you, whether it’s through a settlement or taking your injury lawsuit to court.
We conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and build strong personal injury cases to secure justice for our clients. Call us at (312) 588-9773 to schedule a free case evaluation. We represent clients on a contingency fee basis, so there are no fees or upfront costs unless you receive a payout.
Overview of Auto Accidents in Illinois
Types of Auto Accidents
Frequently Asked Questions
Cook County Auto Accident Resources
Types of Auto Accidents
Below are some of the most common automobile collision cases we handle:
- Drunk driving/DUI
- Commercial trucking accidents
- Uninsured drivers and underinsured drivers
- Passenger injuries
- Ride-sharing accidents (Uber/Lyft/Taxi)
- Bus accidents
- Mass transit liability
- Motorcycle accidents
- Rental car accidents
- Traffic cameras
- Pedestrian accidents
- Hit and run
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
FAQs
How long after an auto accident can you file a claim?
In the State of Illinois, the statute of limitations says that you can file a personal injury claim up to two years from the date of the automobile accident. You have up to five years to file a claim involving property damage resulting from the accident, including damage to your vehicle or physical property.
What should I do if I’m involved in an automobile accident?
Our first piece of advice is to seek legal counsel. Prior to speaking with insurance adjusters, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We can ensure you receive maximum compensation to cover any potential medical bills, lost income, property damage, and emotional pain and suffering. It’s important to note that once you accept an offer from an insurance company, you can’t sue for more compensation at a later date. An attorney can ensure you receive fair compensation for current and future damages resulting from an accident.
Here are the other steps you should follow after an automobile accident:
- Stop your vehicle and assess the health and safety of all parties involved.
- Call the police. Even if the damage seems minor at the time, a police report may be critical should you decide to file a claim at a later date.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including name, home address, and insurance information.
- Gather information from any witnesses at the scene, including name, address, and telephone number.
- Take photos of the accident scene, as well as any damage to vehicles or people involved.
- Contact your insurance company. If you are at fault, you will file a claim with your insurance carrier. If the other party is at fault, you will file a claim with their insurance carrier.
- Report the accident to the State. Illinois requires all drivers involved in a crash to file an accident report for any crash that caused death, injury or more than $1,500 in property damage within 10 days of the incident. This report is typically provided at the scene by the responding officer. It may also be found at any police station or sheriff’s office. Learn more.
- Seek medical care. Get checked out by a doctor even if you think your injuries are minor.
What should I do if I suspect the other driver was at fault for the car accident?
If you believe the other driver was the at-fault driver in a car crash, you should document the scene thoroughly, exchange information with the motorist, and collect contact details from witnesses. It is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced car accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process of proving fault, gathering evidence such as police reports and medical records, and building a strong case. The goal is to ensure that injured victims receive fair compensation for their injuries and damages.
How do I know if I need to hire a car accident attorney?
If you’ve suffered serious car accident injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, or catastrophic injuries, or if you’re dealing with a negligent driver or disputes over liability, hiring an auto accident attorney is essential. An attorney will handle communication with insurance companies, negotiate a fair settlement, and represent you if your case goes to trial. Legal representation ensures you are not taken advantage of and that you receive the financial compensation you deserve.
What are the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents?
Common causes of car crashes include distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, failure to obey traffic signals, and adverse weather conditions. Negligent drivers who fail to follow traffic laws are often the at-fault party in motor vehicle accidents. If you’ve been injured in a car wreck, an experienced car accident lawyer can help determine the cause and hold the responsible party accountable.
What types of injuries are most common in car accident cases?
Car accident victims frequently suffer from injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. While some injuries may seem minor at first, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Medical records documenting your injuries will play a key role in your car accident claim or car accident lawsuit.
What is comparative negligence, and how does it affect my car accident claim?
Comparative negligence refers to the legal concept where fault is divided among parties involved in a car crash. In Illinois, even if you are partially at fault for a motor vehicle accident, you may still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. A car accident attorney can help establish the negligence of the at-fault party and minimize your percentage of liability.
Can I handle insurance claims on my own after a car accident?
While you can handle insurance claims on your own, it’s not advisable if you’ve suffered serious injuries or are disputing fault. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payout and may offer a low settlement offer that doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. An auto accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive a fair settlement that reflects the full scope of your damages.
What should I do if the at-fault driver’s insurance policy doesn’t cover my damages?
If the negligent driver’s insurance policy doesn’t provide enough coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your own car insurance under your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. An experienced personal injury attorney can review your insurance policy, assess your options, and guide you in pursuing additional compensation through a car accident lawsuit if necessary.
How long does it take to resolve car accident cases?
The timeline for resolving car accident cases varies depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and whether a fair settlement can be reached without going to court. While some cases settle within a few months, others may require litigation, which can take a year or more. Your car accident lawyer will work to expedite the legal process while ensuring you receive maximum compensation.
Should I accept the first settlement offer from the insurance company?
It’s rarely a good idea to accept the first settlement offer from an insurance company, as it is often lower than what you deserve. Consult with an experienced car accident attorney to evaluate the settlement offer and negotiate for a fair amount that covers all current and future expenses resulting from the car crash.
What role do trial lawyers play in car accident cases?
Trial lawyers are crucial in car accident cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation. They represent you in court, present evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and argue your case to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Hiring a car accident lawyer with trial experience can strengthen your case and provide leverage during settlement negotiations.
Auto Accident Resources
Report an Accident
The State of Illinois law requires drivers to file a written accident report for any accident that resulted in either death or injury, or caused more than $1,500 in property damage.
Illinois Fatal Crash Data
View up-to-date statistics for fatalities on Illinois roadways.
Contact the Law Firm That Fights for Victims of Auto Accidents
Susan E. Loggans & Associates P.C. has a staunch reputation for getting automobile accident victims the justice they deserve.
Our experienced personal injury lawyers will work with you toward a positive resolution of your case and assist you in developing a clear understanding of your accident and the injuries you suffered.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or death due to an automobile accident, contact our law office immediately to discuss your options and lawful rights to compensation. Call (312) 588-9773 or visit our contact page to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our personal injury experts, who will provide a complete evaluation of your case.