How Does Illinois Determine Fault in Car Accidents?
The Elements of Negligence Personal injury cases, where plaintiffs claim damages caused by someone else's failure to act reasonably, stem from negligence. You must prove the defendant owed you a duty of care and did not fulfill it, you were injured, and the defendant's negligence caused your injury to recover compensation in a person injury claim. Discussed below are these elements of negligence in detail: Duty of Care A duty of care arises when the applicable law acknowledges a relationship...
Is Illinois a Comparative Negligence State for Car Accidents?
What Is Comparative Negligence? Comparative negligence is a legal principle that reduces the amount of damages that a plaintiff can recover after an accident, according to his or her portion of fault. What Is Fault in a Car Accident? The term "fault" is a legal concept that means someone is responsible for causing harm, usually due to negligence. In the case of a car accident, fault can be attributed to a driver who is negligent by doing something he or...
Leading Causes of Car Accidents in Bloomington
The leading causes of car accidents in Bloomington, Illinois, are distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, reckless driving, and fatigued driving. The most effective ways to avoid car accidents include paying attention to the road, adhering to speed limits and traffic laws, and avoiding drunk driving. Getting enough sleep before driving and avoiding using your phone while driving can also lower your chances of getting into an accident. You should familiarize yourself with the appropriate steps to take in the event...
What Is the Insurance Claim Process for Car Accidents in Bloomington?
Types of Insurance Claims In a car accident, an insurance claim is a request for compensation from an insurance company to cover the cost of your injuries or repairs to your property. There are different types of insurance coverage, aimed at different circumstances. You can only file an insurance claim if there is coverage for your circumstances. First- and Third-Party Coverage All insurance policies will fall into the categories of either first-party or third-party coverage. A first-party claim is one...
How Long Does a Car Accident Lawsuit Take in Bloomington, IL?
Steps in a Car Accident Lawsuit in Bloomington, IL The following are some of the key steps involved in a car accident lawsuit in Illinois. Taking these steps can help you build a stronger case and maximize your chances of getting fair compensation. Seek Medical Treatment and Document Your Injuries The first step to take following a car accident is to seek medical care from a licensed physician. Even if your injuries appear minor, they could be internal injuries that...
What Is a Common Carrier Accident?
Common Carrier Liability for Accidents and Injuries Examples of common carriers include commercial vehicles such as buses, taxicabs, rideshare vehicles, and trucks, as well as passenger trains, commercial airplanes, and cruise ships. Common carriers are held to a high standard of care for the people and property they transport by the federal government. When common carrier accidents occur, drivers and the companies they work for may be held liable if the four elements of negligence can be proven. Common carrier...
Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Illinois
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Illinois Compared to those riding inside cars or trucks, motorcyclists are generally at far greater risk for serious injuries from accidents. In 2020, 82,528 motorcycle riders were injured in accidents. Illinois had 153 accidents that year, out of which 13% were fatal. The high number of people who sustain injuries while riding motorcycles indicates the dangers that riders face. 35% of fatalities involving motorcycles occur at intersections, which are considered to be high-risk areas for motorcyclists....
Is It Worth Suing After a Car Accident in Bloomington, IL?
What Happens After a Car Accident? After an accident, there are certain steps you should take. Some of these steps are immediate, while others are part of the post-accident phase. Steps to Take Directly After an Accident These steps will simplify your post-accident experience and ensure you receive the necessary assistance. Ensure Safety After a car accident, prioritize safety. Assess the situation and seek medical attention if anyone is injured. If the accident is minor, safely move your vehicle off...
Truck vs. Car Accident Statistics in Illinois
Truck vs. Car Accident Statistics in Illinois Nearly 300,000 motor vehicle crashes occur annually in Illinois alone. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, 295,604 motor vehicle crashes were recorded in 2021. Out of these collisions, 12,040 involved tractor-trailers and 9,261 involved single-unit trucks, such as delivery trucks. While truck accidents make up a fairly small percentage of all car accidents, a crash with a commercial vehicle can have severe or fatal consequences compared to a crash between two cars....
How to Document Your Car Accident Injuries in Bloomington, IL
The Importance of Documentation After an Accident If you have been involved in a car accident and are filing a claim, it is crucial to keep all related documents organized. Doing so can help you obtain a better settlement by providing necessary evidence and ensuring that your attorney has all the information needed to present a strong case to the insurance company. In determining how to prove you are not at fault in a car accident, documentation can be critical....
