Naperville Car Accident Lawyer

Don’t get taken advantage of in your time of need. Reach out to an experienced Naperville car crash lawyer who will advocate for your right to full compensation for the suffering you’ve endured.

Being injured in an auto wreck is sure to leave even the strongest individual vulnerable. Serious injuries can put a victim out of work for a significant period of time, which can have tremendous consequences on your standard of living. Financial worry is something no car crash survivor should be burdened by.

If you need help securing compensation that will fully cover your damages, get in touch with a Naperville car accident lawyer at Lane Brown, LLC. To help you get the most out of your car accident or personal injury claim, we will investigate your crash, determine the value of your case, and fight for you in court.

Common Causes of Naperville Car Accidents

According to data provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the primary factor behind car accidents in Naperville is negligence, which stems from human error.

These leading causes encompass:

Distracted Driving: It is all too easy for drivers to fail to pay attention to the road in an age dominated by smartphones and in-car technology.
Drunk Driving: Despite stringent laws and awareness campaigns, the issue of drunk driving still persists, endangering lives every day.
Fatigued Driving: Long hours behind the wheel and sleep-deprived individuals on the road can be a recipe for disaster.
Road Rage: Emotions can run high on the road, leading to aggressive behavior and accidents.
Speeding: Disregarding speed limits increases the risk of accidents and exacerbates their severity.
Rolling Stops: Failing to come to a complete stop at intersections can lead to collisions.
Running Red Lights and Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals puts everyone at risk.
Failing to Yield the Right of Way: Failure to follow right-of-way rules can result in dangerous situations for all road users.
Vehicle Defects: Mechanical issues can lead to unexpected accidents.
Negligent Vehicle Maintenance and Repair: Proper vehicle upkeep is essential for safe driving.
Road Defects: Poorly maintained roads can contribute to accidents.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can reduce visibility and road grip.
Limited Visibility: Low light conditions or obstructed views can lead to collisions.

As our dedicated team of car accident attorneys in Naperville takes on each case, our commitment to thorough investigation and relentless pursuit of justice remains unwavering.

Liability in Naperville Auto Collisions

It’s very likely that the driver of the other involved vehicle will be found to hold at least some blame for your crash. Whether it’s due to distracted driving, operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol, drowsy driving, or driving aggressively, a motorist engaging in unsafe driving practices is sure to wreak havoc on the roadways.

Determining liability often involves exploring several potential sources:

Other Drivers Negligence

In many cases, the other driver’s negligence is to blame. This could be due to reckless driving, distracted driving, or violating traffic laws.

For example, if a driver was texting while driving and caused an accident, they would likely be held liable for any injuries that occurred as a result.

Faulty Vehicle Parts

Sometimes, the vehicle manufacturer may be at fault. If a car part is defective and causes an accident, the manufacturer could potentially be held responsible. It’s like when there was a major recall of airbags by Takata because they were exploding and causing injuries.

Government Entities Role

Government entities are also sometimes involved in these cases. They are responsible for maintaining safe roads. If a poorly maintained road led to your accident, you might have a case against the local government.

Deceptive Tactics Insurers Use

Whether you’ve been involved in a car accident, motorcycle accident or truck accident we usually find that insurance companies routinely mislead auto accident victims. They say they’ll be on your side in the event of an accident, but nothing could be further from the truth. When we are negotiating with the insurance adjusters, you can expect them to not only push back against your request for compensation, but to try to place the blame for the accident on you.

If they can prove it, blaming you allows them to minimize the amount they’ll be required to settle for. Your auto accident attorney in Naperville will fight to make sure you receive nothing less than a fair settlement that will cover the full extent of your losses.

Naperville Car Accident Case Worth

Understanding the potential worth of your car accident case in Naperville can be complex due to the numerous factors involved.

Medical Expenses Factor

After a car accident, medical bills can pile up. Your Naperville car accident lawyer will assess these expenses while determining the worth of your case.

Ambulance fees
Hospital stays
Physical or cognitive therapy

These are just a few examples of medical costs that might be considered.

Loss of Income Evaluation

An injury from an accident may force you to miss work. The amount you’ve lost in wages is another factor your attorney should consider.

For instance, if you earn $5,000 per month and miss two months of work, that’s $10,000 factored into your case’s value.

Property Damage Costs

Your vehicle might have suffered damage in the crash. The cost to repair or replace it is also part of your case’s worth.

Suppose your car was totaled, and its market value was $15,000. This figure would be included in the estimation.

Emotional Distress Consideration

Accidents can leave emotional scars, too. Pain and suffering experienced post-crash are taken into account. If you’ve had nightmares or needed counseling, these are signs of emotional distress that could increase the worth of your case.

Seeking Compensation in Your Naperville Car Accident Claim

When you’re involved in a car accident, knowing what types of compensation are available is crucial.

Here are the key areas where you could potentially receive a fair settlement.

Covering Medical Bills and Rehabilitation Costs

After an accident, medical bills can pile up quickly. The settlement amount from your vehicle accident claim should cover these costs. It also includes rehabilitation expenses if you need physical therapy or other treatments to recover.

Reimbursement for Lost Wages

If the accident keeps you off work, lost wages become an issue. Your Naperville car accident lawyer will work to ensure that the settlement offer includes compensation for any income lost during your recovery period.

Compensation for Future Earnings Capacity

Sometimes, severe injuries might affect your ability to earn in the future. In such cases, you could be eligible for substantial compensation that considers your potential earnings loss.

Property Damage and Car Replacement Expenses

Your car might have taken a hit, too! The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle determines the maximum compensation you can get.

Damages Awarded for Pain and Suffering

Lastly, accidents don’t just cause physical injuries; they also lead to emotional trauma. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges this aspect of the post-accident experience.

By understanding these points, you can ensure no stone is left unturned when seeking a fair settlement after a car accident in Naperville.

The Injuries Suffered by Crash Victims Can Be Catastrophic and Fatal

We are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation for clients who have endured various injuries and trauma following a car crash in Naperville. Our commitment to your well-being is unwavering, and we are here to assist you in your time of need.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for immediate assistance if you have suffered from any of the following:

Broken bones: These injuries can profoundly impact your life and require diligent legal attention.
Nerve damage: We understand the complexities of nerve injuries and their long-term consequences.
Joint injuries: Whether it’s a shoulder, knee, or hip injury, we have the expertise to advocate for your rights.
Soft tissue damage: Even seemingly minor soft tissue injuries can lead to significant discomfort and expenses.
Whiplash: Often underestimated, whiplash injuries can result in lingering pain and discomfort.
Neck and back injury: We specialize in cases involving spinal injuries and their legal complexities.
Concussion: Brain injuries require special care and consideration, and we are here to provide it.
Traumatic brain injury: severe head injuries demand experienced legal guidance to secure the compensation you deserve.
Spinal cord injury: We are well-versed in the challenges faced by those with spinal cord injuries.
Burns: Burn injuries can be physically and emotionally devastating, and we are prepared to fight for your rights.
Amputation: Losing a limb is a life-altering event, and we will stand by you every step of the way.
Eye injury: Eye injuries can result in vision impairment, and we are here to protect your interests.
Dental injury: Dental injuries often require costly procedures, and we will work to alleviate your financial burden.
Catastrophic injury: We have the expertise to handle cases involving life-changing injuries.
Wrongful death of a family member: If you’ve tragically lost a loved one, we will provide compassionate legal support during this difficult time.

Rest assured, our team is here to guide you through the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve for your suffering and losses.

What Happens When I’m At Fault for My Naperville, Illinois, Car Accident?

In a car accident scenario, you might find yourself being blamed. Let’s look at how to handle such situations.

Gathering Evidence is Key

If blameful allegations arise, gathering evidence becomes crucial. This can include photos of the accident scene, witness testimonies, and police reports. These pieces of evidence can help refute any false claims made against you.

Photos: Show the actual incident scene.
Witness Testimonies: Provide an unbiased account of events.
Police Reports: Document official findings about the incident.

Role of Comparative Fault Law

Illinois operates under a comparative fault law system. In this system, liability for an accident is shared based on each party’s percentage of fault. For example, if you’re found 20% at fault for an accident, you’ll bear 20% of the damages.

Impact on Compensation

Being partially at fault impacts your compensation too. The percentage of your fault is deducted from your compensation under Illinois’ comparative fault law. If you are awarded $10,000 in damages but are 20% at fault, you receive $8,000 instead.

Importance of Legal Representation

A Naperville car accident lawyer plays a key role in protecting your rights and interests during such proceedings. They gather evidence to counter the allegations and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

With their expertise:

They ensure a fair application of Illinois’ comparative fault law.
They fight for maximum compensation despite partial fault.
They protect your legal rights throughout the process.

What is the Time Frame for Filing an Illinois Car Accident Lawsuit?

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit can vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

Generally, you have two years from the car accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois. This means you must initiate your lawsuit within two years of the accident. However, it’s important to note that there are exceptions and nuances to this deadline, so it’s crucial to consult with an attorney to understand how the statute of limitations applies to your particular situation.

For instance:

Discovery of Injuries

If you only discovered your injuries well after the accident, the two-year countdown may begin from when you discovered or reasonably should have discovered your injuries.

Minors

If the injured party is a minor (under 18 years of age) during the accident, the two-year statute of limitations typically begins to run on their 18th birthday. So, they have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.

Government Entities

When a government entity is involved, such as a city bus or government-owned vehicle, there may be shorter notice requirements, so acting promptly is essential.

Wrongful Death

In cases involving a wrongful death claim resulting from a car accident, the statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the victim’s death. To protect your rights and ensure you meet all legal deadlines, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible after a car accident.

They can provide guidance specific to your case and help you navigate the legal process. Failing to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations can result in losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

Mistakes to Avoid in Car Accident Cases in Naperville

Navigating a car accident case in Naperville can be complex and challenging as in any other location. To increase your chances of a successful outcome, it’s important to avoid common mistakes.

Here are some mistakes to steer clear of in car accident cases in Naperville:

Not Seeking Medical Attention

One of the biggest mistakes is failing to seek immediate medical attention after an accident. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, some injuries may not immediately manifest symptoms. Delaying medical care can jeopardize your health and weaken your claim.

Not Contacting the Police

Failing to report the accident to the police can hinder your ability to establish fault and gather crucial evidence. Always call the police to the scene and ensure an accident report is filed.

Not Exchanging Information

Neglecting to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident is a common error. Gather their names, phone numbers, insurance details, and license plate numbers.

Admitting Fault

Avoid admitting fault or apologizing at the scene of the accident. Even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, a thorough investigation often determines fault.

Not Gathering Evidence

Failing to collect evidence at the scene, such as photos of the vehicles, the accident location, and any visible injuries, can weaken your case. Additionally, gather witness information if possible.

Not Reporting to Insurance

Notify your insurance company promptly about the accident, even if you believe the other party is at fault. Delaying this notification can lead to complications with your claim.

Talking to the Other Party’s Insurance Company

Be cautious when speaking with the other party’s insurance adjusters. Their goal is to minimize their payout, so consult with your attorney before providing statements.

Not Consulting an Attorney

Car accident cases can become complex, especially if injuries are involved. Failing to consult with a personal injury attorney can result in you missing out on potential compensation.

Settling Too Quickly

Don’t rush to accept a settlement offer without fully understanding the extent of your injuries and the long-term consequences. Once you settle, you may not be able to seek additional compensation.

Missing Deadlines

Be aware of the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Illinois. Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing legal action.

Not Documenting Medical Expenses

Keep thorough records of all medical expenses related to the accident, including bills, prescriptions, and rehabilitation costs. These documents are crucial for establishing damages.

Ignoring Emotional and Psychological Impact

Car accidents can have lasting emotional and psychological effects. Don’t overlook these aspects when seeking compensation.

Talk to a Naperville Car Accident Attorney

At a time when you should be focusing your energy on recovering from your injuries, you shouldn’t be saddled with monetary woes and uncertainty about how you’ll continue to support yourself and your family while you’re unable to earn a living.

Working with a lawyer at Lane Brown, LLC can give you an edge over the defendant in your claim. We have zero tolerance for careless driving that puts others at risk or insurers who care more about their financial interests than the wellbeing of their claimants.

Schedule your free consultation with a Naperville car accident lawyer today by filling out the convenient contact form at the bottom of this page or giving us a call at 312-332-1400.