You were injured in a car accident in Rockford. If the other driver didn’t care enough for safety or was negligent, you can file a claim with their insurer, seeking compensation for your losses. However, getting a fair settlement may not be easy. Insurance companies often deny, or offer a low amount, for accident settlements. To deal with your circumstances better, it is wise to hire a Rockford personal injury lawyer. For your help, below is an overview of car accident laws in Illinois.
Reporting an accident
All car accidents that resulted in injury, death, or property damage in excess of $1,500, must be reported. Drivers are required to orally report a car accident in such circumstances. In case no police officer arrived at the scene, the driver must report the accident to the local law enforcement.
The statute of limitations
Illinois’s statute of limitations allows two years to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver at fault. The count starts from the date of the accident. If the accident resulted in someone’s death, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within a year, from the date of death. If you don’t take action within the deadline, your car accident lawsuit will be refused by the court. Note that the statute of limitations doesn’t apply to insurance claims. Inform your insurer and the at-fault party’s insurance company within a reasonable time.
Understanding comparative fault
Illinois follows the comparative fault rule. If you had a share of fault, your settlement will be reduced by your fault measured in percentage. For example, if you were given $50,000 in settlement and were 10% at fault, you will eventually receive $45,000. In case a driver’s share of fault is 51% or above, they cannot recover anything from the defendant.
Get an attorney
Hiring a personal injury lawyer after your car accident is a wise decision. Keep in mind that insurance companies will try to downplay your injuries and losses. Whatever the claims adjuster offers will be lower than what you deserve. With a good attorney by your side, you can be assured of a fair settlement. Most personal injury lawyers in Rockford offer free case evaluation, so you may want to meet an attorney to know your claim better.
Usually, personal injury lawyers in Illinois work on a contingency fee, so they only get paid if they win a settlement for you. Call a lawyer soon after the accident.
