Traffic violations

Vehicle collisions are an unfortunate reality in bustling cities like Chicago. With its densely populated neighborhoods and busy streets, accidents can happen frequently. When involved in a collision, hire an experienced Chicago PI attorney to obtain the justice and compensation deserved.

Evaluating the Accident and Determining Liability

One of the primary tasks of a personal injury attorney is to evaluate the circumstances surrounding the collision and determine the liable parties. Key factors to consider include:

Traffic Violations: Did any party involved in the collision commit a traffic violation, such as speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence?

Vehicle Malfunctions: Were any vehicle malfunctions, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributing to the collision?

Road Conditions: Did hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or poorly maintained streets in Chicago, contribute to the accident?

An experienced attorney can thoroughly investigate these factors and gather the necessary evidence to build a strong case on behalf of their client.

Assessing Damages and Compensation

After determining liability, a personal injury attorney will work to assess the damages sustained by their client. It includes:

Medical Expenses: The cost of immediate and ongoing medical treatment, such as hospital bills, medication, and rehabilitation services.

Lost Wages: Compensation for income or wages lost due to time away from work, as well as diminished earning capacity if the victim is unable to return to their previous occupation.

Property Damage: The expenses of repairing or replacing any damaged property, including the victim's vehicle.

Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress from the collision.

An experienced Chicago personal injury attorney will ensure that all relevant damages are considered and that their client receives the maximum compensation possible.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be a challenging and complex aspect of the personal injury claim process, and insurance companies may attempt to minimize compensation or deny the claim altogether. A skilled attorney can effectively communicate with insurance adjusters, ensuring their client's interests are protected, and a fair settlement is reached.

Navigating the Legal Process

In some cases, a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, and the case may proceed to trial. In these situations, a personal injury attorney can:

File a Lawsuit: The attorney will formally file a lawsuit on behalf of their client, initiating the legal process.

Conduct Discovery: During the discovery phase, both parties gather and exchange information and evidence about the case.

Represent the Client in Court: The attorney will present the case to a judge or jury, advocating on behalf of the client and seeking a favorable outcome.

Appeal if Necessary: If the trial outcome is unfavorable, the attorney may explore filing an appeal to seek a more favorable result.

Vehicle Collisions in Chicago

With its sprawling urban landscape and bustling traffic, Chicago sees a substantial number of vehicle collisions each year. As per the Illinois Department of Transportation, in 2021, more than 100,000 reported motor vehicle crashes in Chicago alone. Nearly 20,000 resulted in injuries, and approximately 100 were fatal.

These numbers underscore the risk that both motorists and pedestrians face on Chicago's roads. The most common causes of these collisions include speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence. Furthermore, conditions unique to urban driving, such as frequent stop-and-go traffic, high pedestrian volumes, and complex road layouts, contribute to the city's high collision rates.

Chicago's roads and highways are some of the busiest in the nation. Interstates 90 and 94, which merge in parts of the city, are notorious for heavy traffic and frequent accidents. Other challenging areas include the Circle Interchange downtown, where I-90, I-94, and I-290 converge, and Lake Shore Drive, which presents risks with its high speeds and tight turns.

Conclusion: 

In the aftermath of a vehicle collision in Chicago, obtaining justice and compensation for injuries and damages is crucial. It is crucial to hire an experienced Chicago PI attorney, so victims can ensure that their legal rights are protected and that they receive the maximum compensation possible. From evaluating the accident and determining liability to negotiating with insurance companies and navigating the legal process, a skilled attorney is invaluable in achieving justice for their clients.