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Chicago Car Accident Attorney

Here’s the thing: Car accidents happen. Every. Single. Day. They’re sudden, often violent, and always unpleasant. But that’s not even the worst part — it’s what comes afterwards that really gets you. The bills, the insurance claim, the fight to get your life back on track. Not to mention the unavoidable psychological repercussions, from shock and confusion to anxiety and fear.

If you’ve recently experienced an accident, you may be wondering what to do next, or how to even begin to pick up the pieces. You may be thinking, “I can handle this on my own,” or “I’ll just call my insurance company and let them deal with it.” But that could be a mistake! Insurance companies don’t have your best interests in mind. They’re looking to minimize their own liability, and they’ll do whatever it takes to achieve that goal.

What you need is an advocate on your side — someone who will help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, defend your rights, and fight for the compensation you so rightfully deserve. In other words: you need a car accident lawyer. Below, we’ll outline what you need to know about car accidents in Chicago, and why having a Chicago car accident attorney on your side can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Hard Facts About Car Accident Cases in Chicago

Car accidents are unfortunately all too common in the United States. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were a total of 42,915 car accident casualties across the nation in 2021. In Illinois alone, IDOT statistics indicate that 1,350 people died in car crashes last year, the highest number of traffic casualties in the state since 2005.

Here are some of the most common causes of car accidents in Chicago:

  • Speeding and aggressive driving;
  • Running red lights or failing to yield;
  • Distracted driving or phone use;
  • DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs).

 

As the data shows, Chicago and its surrounding areas can be a particularly hazardous place to drive. And with more and more cars added to the road every year, these numbers are only going to go up.

How We Can Help If You Are Involved In A Can Accident in Chicago?

Getting injured in a car accident can have devastating financial and emotional repercussions. At the Law Offices of Joseph Younes P.C., we have over 34 years of experience handling Chicago car accident cases. We know the ins and outs of the legal system, and we’ll work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve. Reach out to our team of experienced Chicago auto accident lawyers today!

When To Hire A Chicago Car Accident Attorney​

There’s no legal requirement to hire an attorney after a car accident in Chicago or anywhere in Cook County, but there are certainly situations when having one can be extremely helpful. Here are a few instances where it’s in your best interest to seek legal representation:

  • If you’ve been in a serious accident that has resulted in injuries or death;
  • If you require ongoing medical treatment in the future;
  • If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident;
  • If you’ve been in an accident with a commercial vehicle, such as a truck or bus;
  • If the insurance company is giving you a hard time;
  • If you or the other driver don’t have insurance;
  • If there is a dispute over fault;
  • If you’ve missed work, school, or normal activities for more than a few days;
  • If the paperwork (say, a police report) isn’t accurate or up to standard.

Consult With Us

In the end, hiring an attorney after a car accident depends on how comfortable you are with handling the claims process on your own. When in doubt, or unsure how much your case is worth, it’s best to practice caution and consult an auto accident attorney who can help you determine the best course of action for you.

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Getting Compensation For Your Injuries And Damages

In most states, fault (or liability) will have a direct bearing on damages. Illinois is a comparative negligence state, which means your damages are reduced in proportion to the percentage of fault you share in an accident. In the event you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will be barred from getting any form of compensation at all.

 

To recover compensation for your injuries, you must prove that the other driver was at fault. To establish liability, we use a variety of evidence, which may include:

  • Police reports and witness statements;
  • Photographs of the accident scene;
  • The damage done to your vehicle (and others);
  • Traffic camera footage;
  • Medical records.

Why do I need a Chicago car accident attorney?

It doesn’t matter how careful you are — accidents still happen. And when they do, you need to have a good Chicago car crash attorney by your side. Here are a few reasons why:

1. You Need Someone With Legal Knowledge Who Can Take Over Everything​

After an accident, it can be hard to think straight and make clear decisions. That’s where a good car accident attorney comes in. They can offer you a clear understanding of your legal options, and help you figure out the best next steps for your case.

And while they can’t guarantee you a specific outcome, a lawyer who knows the ins and outs of Chicago law can also assist you in many other ways, such as investigating the accident, gathering evidence of the other driver’s negligence, estimating damages, or even pursuing punitive damages.

2. You need someone who knows how to deal with insurance companies

Insurance companies usually contact you after a car accident. A claim adjuster may then attempt to settle your claim quickly and for the lowest possible compensation. Attempting to negotiate on your own will most likely result in a relatively small settlement, or worse — no settlement at all.

This is why you need an attorney who’s not afraid to take on the insurance companies and fight for what you deserve. An attorney can boost your chances of approval when submitting first-party or third-party claims. They’ll also know how to avoid the tactics that insurance companies use to devalue or deny auto insurance claims.

3. You need someone who can accurately calculate and prove your damages

Damages from a car accident can include both economic (medical bills, lost wages, and property damage) and noneconomic losses (physical pain and trauma, emotional discomfort, and loss of enjoyment). An experienced auto accident lawyer in Chicago or Illinois will know how to accurately calculate both damages, putting you in a better position to negotiate for a higher settlement amount.

4. You need someone who will fight for your rights in court

You’ll want an experienced attorney by your side to navigate the legal system and aggressively advocate on your behalf, whether that means filing a lawsuit, investigating, taking depositions, or presenting your case in front of a jury.

An experienced Chicago car accident attorney will fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to. Contact the Law Offices of Joseph Younes P.C. today for a free consultation. We have a proven track record of success in cases involving car accidents, personal injury, uninsured motorist claims, medical malpractice — and we look forward to putting that experience to work for you!

I have insurance. Do I still need a car accident attorney?

A lot of people think that having insurance means they don’t need a car accident attorney. But that’s not always the case.

The fact is, auto insurance companies are for-profit entities whose claims departments exist primarily to minimize payouts on legitimate claims. And while you’re welcome to try and negotiate a fair settlement with the other driver’s insurance carrier on your own (it’s easier said than done), having an attorney in your corner will give you the best chance at getting the maximum compensation you’re entitled to under the law.

An experienced car accident lawyer will know how to deal with insurance adjusters and defense attorneys, should the need arise. And if you end up going to trial, having an attorney by your side who knows what they’re doing can make all the difference.

Protect Your Rights With A Chicago Car Accident Attorney

Have you or a loved one been in a car accident? If so, you know how stressful and overwhelming the whole process can be. Dealing with insurance companies, hospital bills, and auto repair shops is bad enough, but when you add in the legal process, it can be downright draining.

At the Law Offices of Joseph Younes P.C., our team of experienced Chicago auto accident lawyers has helped countless accident victims all over Cook County get the justice and compensation they deserve.

We’re here to fight for you and help you move on with your life. Call us today or schedule a free, no-charge case evaluation — the crucial first step to resolving your personal injury case anywhere in Chicago, Illinois. The sooner you call, the sooner we’ll help you get your life back on track.

Get The Settlement You Deserve.

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Frequently Asked Questions

After your accident, start working with a car accident attorney as soon as you can (some attorneys even make hospital visits). You can avoid some of the hazards of attempting to handle your claim on your own by seeking legal counsel as soon as possible. While you wait for the outcome of your claim, your lawyer can also start the process of getting you paid for the medical expenses you incurred and the lost wages you made.