Car Accident Lawyer Springfield, IL
There is a lot to deal with after a car accident. From seeking medical care to filing an insurance claim and figuring out repairs, recovering from a crash is stressful and overwhelming. If you were in a collision that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your losses. Contact Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols now to speak with our Springfield, IL car accident lawyer and learn about your rights.
Why You Should Hire A Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies aren’t easy to deal with. They may try to minimize your claim and offer a settlement that doesn’t cover all the expenses from the crash. Our car accident lawyer knows how to handle insurers and will calculate your damages so you get the full amount of money you deserve.
The success of your case depends on who is deemed at fault for the accident. Our car accident lawyer gathers evidence to prove your innocence. From getting security tapes from local businesses to pulling police reports and tracking down eyewitnesses, we go through every detail of your accident carefully so there is no doubt about what happened on the road. If your case needs more support, we will consult with reconstructionists and other specialists and possibly use their testimony to get a better result at trial.
There are a lot of directions a personal injury claim can go. Sometimes, insurance is quick to settle, and we get a fair compensation amount in mediation. Other times the case is more complicated and ends up being decided by a judge. Representing yourself leaves you vulnerable, so don’t risk proceeding without our experienced attorney in your corner.
When To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer
Right after a car crash, your first priority should be getting to a safe place away from traffic. If you aren’t severely hurt, try to get photos of the scene to use as evidence later. Make sure the police have been contacted and get a copy of their report or a reference number to use later. Regardless of if you feel okay, it’s important to see a doctor the same day as the collision so you have a medical record. Then, it is time to call an attorney.
Consulting with our Springfield car accident lawyer before dealing with insurance can make a big difference in your case. Adjusters are going to ask about every detail of the incident, and one wrong statement could get your claim denied. If you assume any liability in the crash, they can refuse to compensate you. Our car accident lawyer will speak with your insurance company and handle all of the negotiations. We review settlement offers and give you an honest assessment based on the strength of the evidence we have gathered. While a trial drags out the outcome of your car crash claim, going to court might be the only way to get the money you deserve.
After a car accident call, Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols for helping filing a claim and negotiating a fair settlement. Schedule a consultation with our experienced Springfield car accident lawyer today. When you work with us, our focus is dedicated to providing outstanding legal representation and unmatched personal service. Let our firm stand up for your rights and get the outcome you deserve.
Assigning Liability In A Car Crash
If you’ve been involved in a car crash, determining who is responsible for the accident is one of the most important steps in filing a personal injury claim. It is your right to hold the party at-fault financially responsible for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and any other damages you’ve sustained. Understanding how liability is assigned can help you build a stronger case as you pursue compensation. When you retain our Springfield, IL car accident lawyer, we take on the responsibility of assigning blame for the crash by building evidence against the negligent party. Let our firm handle liability, while you focus on recovery.
Understanding Liability In Car Accidents
Liability in a car crash refers to who is legally responsible for the accident. The person who caused the crash, typically through negligence, is liable for the damages. Negligence occurs when someone fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. In a car accident, negligence could be anything from speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence.
When determining liability, investigators look at the facts of the case, such as traffic violations, evidence from the accident scene, and witness statements. The goal is to establish which driver’s actions caused the crash and if those actions were reckless or careless.
Key Factors In Determining Liability
Traffic violations are one of the most straightforward ways to assign liability. If a driver runs a red light or doesn’t stop at a stop sign, they are often considered at fault because they violated the law. The same goes for speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These types of violations directly contribute to accidents and injuries, making the driver who committed the violation liable for the damages.
Evidence collected from the scene of the accident also plays a significant role in determining liability. Police reports are often used to establish facts and the cause of the crash. Officers may write a report detailing what happened, including any violations or actions that led to the collision.
Photos of the crash site, vehicle damage, and skid marks also help establish the circumstances surrounding the accident. While police reports can be influential, they’re not always conclusive, so other evidence, like witness statements, can be crucial in proving fault.
Witness statements are another important factor in assigning liability. If bystanders or other drivers saw the accident occur, their testimonies can support your version of events. Their independent observations can help clarify who was at fault and provide additional evidence to back your claim. In some cases, surveillance footage from nearby cameras can offer clear visual evidence of the accident, making it easier for our Springfield car accident lawyer to identify the responsible party.
Shared Liability And Comparative Negligence
In some cases, more than one party may be partially responsible for the accident. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. Under this system, a person can recover damages in a personal injury case as long as they are less than 51% at fault for the accident.
Here’s how it works:
- If you are found to be 50% or less at fault, you can still recover compensation for your injuries, but your damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you are 51% or more at fault, you are barred from recovering any damages.
For example, if you were involved in a car accident and found to be 30% at fault, you could still receive 70% of the total damages. However, if you were found to be 60% at fault, you would not be entitled to any compensation. This modified comparative fault system makes certain that both parties’ actions are considered when determining responsibility for an accident.
Proving Liability In A Personal Injury Claim
To successfully file a personal injury claim, you must prove that the other driver’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries. This often requires gathering as much evidence as possible to support your version of events. For example, photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries can visually demonstrate the impact of the crash. Medical records showing the extent of your injuries and the treatment you’ve received will help connect your injuries to the accident. Eyewitness testimony can also be used to strengthen your case, especially if it confirms your account of what happened.
In some cases, professionals such as accident reconstructionists may be needed to help explain the cause of the accident. These professionals can analyze the evidence, such as the speed of the vehicles and the position of the cars before the collision, and offer a knowledgeable opinion on how the crash occurred.
While insurance companies often investigate liability, their primary goal is to minimize their payout. They may not always make a fair determination of fault, especially if they are trying to reduce the amount they owe. If you feel that the insurance company’s decision is incorrect, having our lawyer on your side can help challenge their findings and help you pursue fair damages for your personal injury claim.
The Necessity Of Legal Representation
Determining liability in a car accident is not always a simple process. Disputes can arise over fault, especially when there are multiple parties involved or disagreements about what happened. In these situations, it’s a good idea to consult with our experienced Springfield car accident lawyer at Pioletti, Pioletti, & Nichols. Our firm has helped injury victims since 1938 and our attorney is prepared to gather the evidence needed to prove liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary.
Filing a personal injury claim is an important step in recovering compensation for your losses. By working with our lawyer, you increase your chances of holding the responsible party accountable for the crash and obtaining the full compensation you deserve. We are committed to fighting for your rights. Call 24/7 to schedule a confidential case evaluation. Learn your options to pursue legal action now. Don’t wait to hold the person responsible for your accident financially responsible.
6 Mistakes To Avoid After A Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to handle the situation carefully. Whether it’s dealing with injuries, insurance claims, or a personal injury lawsuit, the steps you take right after an accident can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Our Springfield, IL car accident lawyer recommends avoiding these six mistakes so you can protect your rights and strengthen your case.
1. Failing to Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it’s essential to get checked by a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. Delaying medical care could not only make your injuries worse but also weaken your claim for compensation later. Always prioritize your health and make sure there’s a record of your injuries from a professional.
2. Admitting Fault at the Scene
It’s easy to get caught up in the heat of the moment and apologize or take responsibility for the accident, especially if you think you were partly to blame. However, admitting fault at the scene can severely hurt your case. The facts surrounding an accident may be unclear right away, and admitting fault could complicate your ability to recover damages. Leave the determination of liability to the authorities and our lawyer.
3. Not Collecting Enough Evidence
The evidence you gather immediately after an accident can play a key role in your case. Failing to collect important information, such as photos of the scene, contact details of witnesses, or insurance information from the other driver, can make it difficult to build a strong claim. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, write down everything you remember as soon as you can.
4. Settling Too Quickly
Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement after an accident, but it’s rarely in your best interest to accept without consulting our Springfield car accident lawyer. These initial offers are often lower than what you could receive after proper negotiations. Before agreeing to any settlement, speak with our attorney, with decades of experience in personal injury law, who can assess your injuries and potential long-term costs, such as medical bills and lost wages.
5. Giving Recorded Statements Without Legal Advice
Insurance adjusters might ask for a recorded statement about the accident, but it’s best to speak to our lawyer before agreeing to this. Your words can be twisted, and anything you say could be used against you later. Our attorney can help facilitate these conversations and make sure you don’t say anything that could undermine your claim. Always consult our lawyer before giving a statement.
6. Failing to Keep Track of Medical Treatment and Expenses
After an accident, keeping track of your medical treatment and related expenses is essential for building your case. Failing to document your visits, bills, prescriptions, or treatments can make it harder to prove the extent of your injuries and the financial burden caused by the accident. Save all receipts, medical records, and correspondence with your healthcare providers. These records are critical for getting the compensation you deserve.
Protecting Your Rights After An Accident
Being involved in a car accident can be a stressful experience, but the way you handle the aftermath can have a lasting impact on your ability to recover damages. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can better protect your health, your rights, and your ability to receive the compensation you deserve. If you’re unsure about what to do next, schedule a free consultation with our Springfield car accident lawyer at Pioletti, Pioletti, & Nichols. We are available by phone or email 24/7. Lean on a firm who is committed to fighting for the rights of personal injury victims. Get in touch today to learn about your options for pursuing legal action after a car crash.
