AUTO ACCIDENT FAQ
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AREAS OF PRACTICE > AUTO ACCIDENTS > AUTO ACCIDENT FAQ
AREAS OF PRACTICE > AUTO ACCIDENTS > AUTO ACCIDENT FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Accidents

Below is a list of frequently asked questions we receive about car accidents. For specific legal advice, please contact us for a free consultation.

What should I do if I am involved in an auto accident?

When you are involved in an accident, consider the following actions:
  • Move your car to a safe place if possible.
  • Check yourself and your passengers for any apparent injuries.
  • Call the police to file a report.
  • Exchange information with the other driver (driver’s license number, license plate, insurance, address, phone number).
  • Take pictures of the accident scene.
  • Seek medical attention
  • Contact an attorney
It is important to talk to an attorney before you accept a settlement from an insurance company. Initial settlement offers are often far below the compensation you need and deserve. If you accept an insurance settlement and later realize it is not enough to cover the long-term expense of your injuries, you will have no legal recourse.

How can a car accident lawyer help after a car accident?

An attorney can help you understand your rights and explain the legal options available to you so that you can make informed decisions. An attorney can also determine the true value of your claim and ensure that you do not settle for less than you deserve. Accident victims who choose to work with an attorney have been proven to obtain greater compensation than victims who do not work with an attorney—even after legal fees are factored in.

What are the leading causes of car accidents?

Car accidents can happen for many reasons. The leading causes of car accidents include:
  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Drunk driving
Most car accidents are preventable and due to driver negligence and/or recklessness.

What type of compensation am I able to recover after a car accident?

If you are the victim of an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to recover compensation for things like:
  • Medical care
  • Rehabilitation
  • Medications
  • Disfigurement
  • Property damage
  • Loss of income
  • Loss of future earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • And more
Depending on your circumstances, you may also be able to seek punitive damages that go above and beyond compensatory damages. An experienced car accident lawyer will able to help you understand what damages you are eligible to receive and assess the overall value of your claim.

What is the statute of limitations?

The statute of limitations for a car accident varies. The statute of limitations for minors is indefinite. Contact our Chicago car accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure you are able to file a claim before time runs out.

Shapiro, Cohen and Basinger, Ltd. has over 40 years of experience helping injured people obtain justice in the greater Chicago area. We are committed to aggressively protecting our client's rights and interests as we pursue maximum compensation. To learn more about us or to schedule your free consultation, contact us today.
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