Car Accidents
Can You File a UM/UIM Claim If You Were Partially at Fault?
In most cases, you can still file a claim for UM or UIM coverage if you are partially at fault. However, there are implications to this. In Illinois, a state that follows a modified comparative negligence rule, you can still seek compensation if you are no more than 50% at fault. There are several...
Read More How Do Car Accidents Affect Your Driving Record in Illinois?
A car accident can impact your driving record if you are found at fault for the incident. Your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) documents all accidents you're in if the police are called to the scene and property damage is $1,500 or more, or if any person is hurt in the accident. Not all reports...
Read More Can I File a Car Accident Claim Against a Government Entity in Illinois?
Yes. If a government employee or public entity caused your car accident in Illinois, you may be able to file a compensation claim. However, claims against government entities are often subject to different rules, shorter deadlines, and procedural requirements than claims against private drivers. Acting quickly is essential to protect your rights, and an...
Read More What If a Hit and Run Driver Hits My Parked Car?
If a vehicle strikes your parked car and then flees the scene, the driver is facing criminal charges. You should speak to the local police department and document what occurred. Depending on what happens from their investigation, you may be able to seek financial compensation against the at-fault driver or file a claim with...
Read More How Long Do UM/UIM Claims Take to Settle in Illinois?
An underinsured or uninsured motorist claim in Illinois can take weeks to months to settle, depending on the circumstances of the accident. The length of time it takes to settle a case like this depends on the available evidence and the steps the insurance company decides to take to expedite the claim, or not....
Read More What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Illinois
After a hit-and-run accident in Illinois, it is important to act quickly. Hit-and-run accidents can be stressful and challenging since the other party is not present. As such, there are steps you can take to ensure your safety and gather vital evidence for your case. Working with an experienced legal advocate, such as the...
Read More Legal Risks and Penalties for Leaving an Accident Scene
If a driver is involved in an accident, regardless of fault, they must stop. This is a legal requirement, and there can be severe risks and penalties for drivers who leave an accident scene. The reasoning is simple. After an accident, people may have been hurt, and if a person was able to drive...
Read More What Should Drivers Do in Case of a Brake Failure?
Drivers experiencing a brake failure should do their best to remain calm and think clearly. Pump the brakes if you have an older model car without an anti-lock braking system (ABS), or try again with consistent pressure on the brake pedal if your car is a newer model with ABS. Engage your emergency brake...
Read More What Are the Best Ways to Manage a Tailgating Driver?
Tailgating occurs when the person behind you follows very closely. Often used as a way to scare you into driving faster, it is a type of reckless driving that causes serious injury when accidents happen. But, if you are in this situation right now, how do you manage a tailgating driver? When possible, get...
Read More Should I Give a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Company?
When an accident happens, the victim often must contact the at-fault party’s insurance company to provide information to them about the incident. The insurance adjuster speaking with you will try to gather as much information as possible from you, often asking the same questions in multiple ways. They may also ask if you will...
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