Many people spend more time in their cars than in their homes. With that trend and an increase in traffic, car accidents occur more frequently than ever. Car accidents, unfortunately, result in permanent injuries to thousands of people every year and are the primary cause of death among young people. Of the over 2.22 million people injured each year in car accidents, hundreds of thousands may sustain life-altering injuries that they must overcome. Some of these injuries require months and even years of therapy and medical treatment along with life adjustments both at home and in the workplace. We strive to help you get through the stress and chaos that comes along with being involved in an auto accident.
What are Common Auto Accident Injuries?
Over the last 30 years, our car accident attorneys have represented clients who have sustained the following types of injuries:
- Facial cuts
- Injuries to legs and arms that require amputation
- Back and neck injuries requiring surgery
- Fractures
- Paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Fatalities
“We have the experience, the compassion that’s necessary, and we get results.”
What to Do After A Car Accident in Chicago, IL?
Car accidents get most people pretty shaken up, even after something like a fender bender. However, what you do right after the accident can make a big difference later when it comes time to pay for damages and medical bills. According to DMV.org, here are some tips to remember:
- Never admit fault. Even if you think you are to blame in an accident, do not admit that to anyone, not the other drivers, your passengers, the police, or even your insurance agent. You only have one perspective of the accident, and there may have been other factors involved.
- Get medical attention. Some injuries may not be apparent right away to you as you may be in shock or have adrenaline running through your system. Get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Keep notes and paperwork from any doctors or medical professionals you see.
- Take pictures. If you are able, take pictures or video of the accident. Almost everyone has a cell phone now, so use that to record what happened.
- Call us. If you have been injured, regardless of who was at fault, you may need representation to be fairly compensated for your injuries. Accident attorneys experienced with serious car accident cases can advise you of your rights– before you speak to an insurance carrier.
People Injured in Chicago Auto Accidents vs. Auto Insurance Carriers
When you are involved in a car accident with another party, your interests are completely contradictory to those of the insurance carrier. It is simply not in the best interest of the insurance carriers to compensate you fairly for your injuries sustained in a car accident. Insurance companies make money by taking in as much in premiums as possible and limiting payments made for each claim. Simply expecting an insurance adjuster assigned to your case to ‘do the right’ thing is only setting oneself up for disappointment when a settlement offer is extended.
Car insurance companies may even go so far as to make false statements such as, “You will not get as much money for your case if you hire an attorney.” When an insurance company makes such a claim, not only are they hoping you will resolve your case for less than what you deserve, but also such statements are completely false. In fact, a study commissioned by an insurance industry group determined that people injured in car accidents who retained an attorney received more money for their case compared to a person who tried to go it alone– over 350% more money for their injury case!
Fortunately, The HSPRD Car Accident Attorneys Can Do Each Of The Following For You:
- Repair or replace your car. We understand the frustration that results from having a damaged car and will work tirelessly with the insurance company to recover your property damage.
- Recover lost wages and income. The injuries sustained in a car accident may affect your ability to work. We will handle all the paperwork to recover your lost earnings.
- Visit at home and/or the hospital. We will come to you if your injury affects your ability to come to us. HSPRD has investigators on staff who will travel directly to your home or hospital to make your recovery as easy as possible.