Champaign Car Accident Lawyer

What To Do if You’re Involved in a Car Crash in Central Illinois

According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were nearly 300,000 motor vehicle collisions in our state in 2022.  Of these, almost 60,000 were injury crashes, and 1,147 caused one or more fatalities.

Being involved in a car accident is a stressful experience, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety and protecting your rights. Here are steps to follow right after a wreck:

• Ensure Everyone’s Safe by Checking for Injuries: The first and most important step to take after an auto accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance. It’s crucial to seek medical attention even if it appears you or anyone else is hurt or that injuries are minor, as some of them may not be immediately apparent.
• Move to a Safe Location: If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic and prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If the car cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
• Call the Police: Regardless of the accident’s severity, it’s essential to report it to the police. A police report provides an official record of the accident, which is vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings. When the police arrive, provide a clear and accurate account of what happened.
• Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Key details to gather include:
  • Full name and contact information

• • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license and license plate number
  • Make, model, and color of the vehicle
  • Location of the accident

• Document the Scene: Take pictures of the accident scene from multiple angles, capturing the position of the vehicles, damages, and any relevant road conditions or signage. These photos can be critical evidence in your insurance claim or legal case.
• Talk to Witnesses: If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask for their account of what happened. Witness statements can provide additional perspectives and support your version of events.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the information you’ve gathered, including the police report number, if available. Be honest and accurate in your description of the accident. You should avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be used against you later. Let the authorities and your lawyer handle the investigation and negotiations.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to see a doctor after an accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately.
• Consult a Car Accident Attorney: Consider consulting with a Champaign car accident lawyer, especially if there are significant damages, injuries, or disputes about fault. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process, handle communications with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Remember, in the chaotic moments following a collision, it’s normal to feel disoriented and confused, but staying focused and organized can make a significant difference in your recovery as well as any future legal proceedings.

Common Causes of Motor Vehicle Collisions in Champaign County

While accidents can happen for a wide variety of reasons, there are a few most common causes that you should be aware of. Some of these include:

• Speeding: Speed limits are posted for a reason…to keep drivers safe. Exceeding the legal speed limit reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected situations, increasing the chances and severity of collisions.
• Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction times, and motor skills, leading to accidents.
• Distracted Driving: Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car technologies can take a driver’s attention off the road and lead to an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that at 55mph, a driver taking their eyes off the road for as little as 5 seconds (or about the time it takes to read a text) is the equivalent of driving the full length of a football field with their eyes closed.
• Reckless Driving: Road rage or aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through, and ignoring traffic signals contribute to many accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), at least 107,000 individuals suffered injuries in 2022, and 1,149 were killed in crashes where a driver ran a red light.

Why Work With a Champaign Car Accident Lawyer?

From medical bills to vehicle repairs, the financial implications of a car accident can be significant and even overwhelming. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer specializes in handling exactly these types of cases and fights for your rights while you focus on recovery.

They understand the intricacies of insurance claims, liability laws, and negotiating settlements to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

What To Expect During Your Initial Consultation With an Attorney

During your initial consultation with a Champaign IL car accident lawyer, they will assess the details of your case.

Be prepared with copies of documentation such as police reports, medical records, and insurance information. This helps your lawyer understand the circumstances surrounding the accident and better evaluate the strength of your claim.

Your consultation is also a chance for you to ask questions about the legal process, potential outcomes, and their strategy for handling your case.

Importance of Acting Promptly

Time is of the essence in car accident cases. Illinois has statutes of limitations that restrict the amount of time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit after an accident.

You must act promptly, not only to ensure that critical evidence is preserved and witnesses’ memories are fresh, but that these legal deadlines are met as well. By consulting with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident, you can avoid the risk of losing your rights to seek compensation.

Let Prince Law Firm Advocate for You

Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident requires the expertise of a skilled Champaign car accident lawyer, one who understands the complexities of personal injury law.

At Prince Law Firm, our dedicated and experienced attorneys can help you seek justice and fair compensation for the harm you’ve suffered because we understand your legal rights.

Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone—we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation.