Being injured in a Palatine car accident will likely have you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about what to do next. That is where our experienced firm can help.
With years of experience litigating car accident cases, our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights. We know what evidence to gather, how to procure witness statements, obtain police reports, and much more. Most importantly, we can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf so that you receive the compensation you deserve. If the insurance company is unwilling to provide what is fair, we will not hesitate to file a lawsuit and take your case to court.
Our car accident lawyers at Rhatigan Law Offices can provide you with a free case review by calling us at (312) 578-8502.
Common Reason Why Car Accident Claims Are Filed in Palatine, IL
Understanding the common reasons why car accident claims are filed in Palatine can help drivers be more aware of potential hazards and take steps to avoid them. However, accidents can still occur because of people’s negligence. When that happens, our car accident attorneys can help you get justice for the losses you incurred through no fault of your own. The following are the most common causes of car accidents in Palatine:
Distracted Driving
One of the most common reasons behind car accidents in Palatine is distracted driving. This occurs when drivers engage in activities such as eating, talking on the phone, texting, taking selfies, applying makeup, or even getting dressed while driving. These distractions take away the driver’s focus from the road, which significantly increases the chances of an accident occurring.
Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. Drivers who exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for conditions can lose control of their vehicle, have less time to react to hazards and increase the severity of accidents when they occur.
Failing to Use Turn Signals
Failure to use turn signals is a frequent factor in many car accidents. When drivers do not signal their intentions to turn or change lanes, other motorists cannot anticipate their movements, leading to unnecessary collisions.
Tailgating
Tailgating, or following too closely, often leads to rear-end collisions. When drivers do not maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of them, they might not have enough time to stop or avoid a collision if the leading vehicle suddenly brakes.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious problem that often results in severe and fatal accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased motor control, all of which contribute to the likelihood of causing an accident.
Poor Road Conditions
Poor road conditions, such as potholes, inadequate signage, or malfunctioning traffic lights, can also cause accidents. Drivers might not anticipate these hazards, leading to loss of vehicle control. In some cases, the government agency responsible for road maintenance might be held liable for accidents caused by poor road conditions.
Bad Weather
Bad weather, including rain, snow, fog, or icy conditions, is another common cause of car accidents in Palatine. Inclement weather can decrease visibility, make roads slippery, and make it more difficult for drivers to control their vehicles or stop in time to avoid a collision.
However, part of a driver’s duty is to adjust their driving to what is safe under the circumstances. So, if a driver was technically doing the speed limit at 60 mph but was in the middle of a thunderstorm, they could still be held liable for acting unreasonably given the situation.
How You Can Recover Compensation for Injuries Sustained in a Palatine, IL Car Accident
You will usually have a few options to recover compensation for your car accident injuries. However, whether you choose to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit, we recommend working with our team so you get an accurate assessment of your case from someone on your side. We can help with either of the following options and more:
You Can File an Insurance Claim
After a car accident, the first is usually to file an insurance claim. The decision to file with your own insurance company or the other driver’s insurance provider depends on several factors, such as the accident’s circumstances and the type of insurance coverage both parties have.
When you contact your insurance company, they will request essential information about the accident. This typically includes the location, date, and time of the accident, as well as the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance policy numbers of everyone involved.
In most cases, you will need to file a police report, especially if there were injuries or significant property damage. The police report serves as valuable evidence when dealing with insurance companies and can help establish fault and witnesses who might provide additional information.
Once you have filed your claim, an adjuster should be assigned to your case. The adjuster’s role is to investigate the accident, assess the damage, and determine the amount of compensation you should receive. However, they are there to protect the company’s interests, not yours. Thus, it is best to consult with our firm before making any statements that might be used to reduce your compensation amount.
You Can File a Lawsuit
If the insurance claim does not cover all the damages you have incurred, or if the other party was particularly negligent, you might consider filing a lawsuit to recover a wider range of damages. Filing a lawsuit can help you recover compensation for not only your medical expenses and property damage but also for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and lost wages.
In order to file a lawsuit, you need to prove that the other driver was at fault for the accident. This generally involves showing that they were negligent, such as by driving under the influence, speeding, or failing to drive responsibly.
Once you have filed the lawsuit, the case might go to trial or be settled out of court. If the case goes to trial, a judge or jury will hear the evidence presented by both sides and make a decision based on the facts and how they were argued by each side.
If the case is settled out of court, you and the other party will negotiate a settlement agreement that outlines the compensation you will receive for your damages and injuries. Working with our team is the best way to make sure all your damages are accounted for and accurately reflected in your settlement.
Our Palatine, IL Car Accident Lawyers Are Ready to Fight for the Justice You Deserve
For a free case assessment with our car accident attorneys, call Rhatigan Law Offices at (312) 578-8502.
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