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Car Accident Attorney in Columbia, Illinois

The aftermath of a car accident can be devastating. If you've been involved in one, knowing your rights and finding skilled legal representation is critical.

Car accidents can range from minor fender benders to devastating collisions. Regardless of the severity, they can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs are just the beginning—you also have to deal with the stress and trauma that follows.

With years of experience in personal injury litigation, Attorney Stephen C. Buser is well-qualified to help you understand the ins and outs of car accident claims. Read on to know more.

Causes of Car Accidents

Various factors contribute to car accidents, including but not limited to:

Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or fiddling with the radio can divert attention from the road.

Speeding: Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.

Drunk driving: Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction times, making it a major cause of fatal accidents.

Reckless driving: Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating or weaving through traffic put everyone at risk.

Weather conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can create hazardous driving conditions leading to accidents.

Running red lights: Ignoring traffic signals is not only illegal but also highly dangerous, often resulting in severe accidents at intersections.

Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage can contribute to accidents, making it harder for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.

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Do This Immediately After an Accident

Here are a few things you can do in the aftermath of an accident that will maximize your compensation and secure justice:

Check for injuries: Prioritize safety even if you feel fine and seek medical help as soon as possible.

Document the scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This can serve as important evidence later.

Collect information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s). Also, get the contact details of any witnesses.

Report the accident: File a police report, as it will serve as an official record of the incident.

Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all necessary details and cooperate with their investigation.

Contact an attorney: Seek legal advice to understand your rights and begin the process of filing a claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process of personal injury claims.

Car Accident Laws in Illinois

Understanding state laws is important when pursuing a car accident claim in Illinois. Here are a few noteworthy points:

Statute of Limitations

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a car accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in your case being dismissed. Certain exceptions, such as cases involving minors or the discovery of injuries at a later date, could extend this timeframe.

Comparative Fault

Illinois follows a "comparative fault" rule. If you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from receiving any compensation.

Mandatory Insurance

Illinois law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. The minimum coverage includes:

$25,000 for injury or death of one person

$50,000 for injury or death of more than one person

$20,000 for property damage

Failure to carry the required insurance can result in fines and suspension of driving privileges. Drivers must keep proof of insurance in their vehicle at all times, and failure to provide this proof can lead to additional penalties.

Reporting Requirements

In Illinois, any car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 must be reported to the police. If the above criteria are met, the accident must be reported to the Illinois Department of Transportation within 10 days. Failing to report can attract penalties and affect your ability to file a claim. The official police report can serve as a critical piece of evidence in legal proceedings.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Illinois also requires that insurance policies include Uninsured Motorist Coverage. This coverage protects you if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have insurance or in a hit-and-run accident. It ensures that you still receive compensation even if the at-fault driver is uninsured. It also covers hit-and-run accidents.

Hit-and-Run Incidents

In Illinois, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense, particularly if the accident results in injury or death. Consequences for hit-and-run drivers can include severe fines, imprisonment, and loss of driving privileges. If you are a victim of a hit-and-run, you must report the incident to the police immediately, providing as much information as possible to help locate the party responsible.