It is okay to panic after an auto accident. The immediate impact of a crash in Rockford can numb your senses. If the accident resulted from the other driver’s reckless action, you might feel infuriated and frustrated. First things first, stop your car and consider calling 911 immediately to seek medical help. Once you have gasped a breath, call the local police and inform them of the mishap. You should also consider contacting a Rockford personal injury attorney. Below are some key facts worth knowing, including the need for an attorney.
Understanding auto accident laws in Illinois
- Illinois is a fault state. If the other driver acted recklessly, was negligent in any manner, or was drunk or distracted, you have the right to sue them for compensation.
- Illinois follows the modified version of the comparative fault rule. If you were also partly responsible for the accident, you could only file a lawsuit against the other party if your fault is marked at 50% or less.
- For most injury lawsuits, the deadline is two years from the date of the accident. If you want to file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a loved one, the two-year cap still applies. For vehicle damage lawsuits, the deadline is five years.
Talk to an injury attorney
Hiring an injury attorney in the state doesn’t have to be hard. Most law firms in Rockford don’t charge an upfront fee to evaluate auto accident claims and can offer a free initial consultation for your case. An injury attorney can evaluate what the claim is worth and whether you should consider filing a lawsuit. Once the lawyer agrees to take the case, they will gather evidence, talk to witnesses, find accident reconstruction experts to understand how the event unfolded, and take care of the paperwork. The lawyer will typically ask for a contingency fee, which is a share of your settlement. If you don’t win the case, your lawyer doesn’t get anything, although you are still required to pay for certain expenses.
Take action immediately
Life will never be the same after the accident, at least for a while. Don’t let the circumstances bog you down. Hire an injury attorney so that the playing field is leveled as you negotiate with the insurance adjuster. Insurance companies will do their best to reduce what they pay for your claim, and a skilled attorney can help you get the settlement you deserve.
