Litchfield Car Accident Attorneys
Legal help after vehicle accidents throughout Illinois
A car accident can cause serious injury, property damage, and mental trauma. When you’re injured in an accident that was not your fault, you should not be responsible for the expenses associated with the accident. This is why it’s so important to have attorneys on your side who understand what injuries you’ve suffered and all that you’ve lost due to the accident. Our lawyers to have the skills to hold the right people responsible after they cause you damages.
With more than 25 years of dedicated service, the legal professionals at Glisson Law have been assisting individuals in situations similar to yours. Our extensive experience in handling car accident cases is exemplified by our success, including securing a substantial $1.6 million settlement for a family involved in a motor vehicle accident caused by a driver running a stop sign. Contact us today.
How can we help?
- What types of car accident claims does your Litchfield law firm handle?
- Why do car accidents happen?
- Who is liable for my Litchfield car accident?
- What are common car accident injuries?
- What is the value of my Litchfield car accident claim?
- How long do I have to file my Litchfield car accident claim?
- Do you have a car accident attorney near me?
What types of car accident claims does your Litchfield law firm handle?
In 2021, Illinois saw 295,604 car accidents, with 1,217 of them fatal. These accidents caused 60,991 injuries.
Our car accident attorneys handle a wide range of car accidents, including:
- Rear-end collisions. These are the most common type of car accident. They occur when one car collides with the rear of another car.
- Side-impact collisions. These occur when two cars collide side-to-side. They are often more serious than rear-end collisions because the impact is more direct.
- Head-on collisions. These occur when two cars collide head-on. They are the most serious type of car accident and can often result in fatalities.
- T-bone collisions. These occur when one car collides with the side of another car that is perpendicular to it. They are often serious because the impact is concentrated on one side of the car.
- Rollover accidents. These occur when a car flips over. They can be caused by a number of factors, such as speeding, driving on a slippery surface, or being hit from behind.
If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to speak to a Litchfield car accident attorney as soon as possible. We can help you understand your legal rights and options and can help you file a claim for compensation.
Why do car accidents happen?
There are many reasons why car accidents happen. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving. This is the most common cause of car accidents. It includes any activity that takes your attention away from the road, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio.
- Speeding. Speeding is another common cause of car accidents. It increases the risk of losing control of your car and colliding with another vehicle or object.
- Drunk driving. Drunk driving is a serious problem that causes thousands of deaths and injuries each year.
- Reckless driving. Reckless driving is any driving behavior that is dangerous or careless. It can include speeding, driving under the influence, and driving while distracted.
- Driving while fatigued. Driving while fatigued can be just as dangerous as driving drunk. It can impair your judgment and reaction time, making it more difficult to avoid accidents.
- Bad weather. Bad weather can make driving conditions more dangerous. It can cause roads to become slippery, visibility to be reduced, and traffic to be heavier.
- Mechanical failure. Mechanical failure can also cause car accidents. If your car has a problem, such as a flat tire or a faulty brake, it could cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
- Road hazards. Road hazards, such as potholes, debris, and animals, can also cause car accidents. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and to drive slowly in areas where there are potential hazards.
Who is liable for my Litchfield car accident?
Liability in a car accident depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. Here are some common factors that can determine liability:
- Negligent drivers. In many car accidents, one or more drivers are found to be at fault due to their negligence. This could include actions such as speeding, running a red light, failing to yield, distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving), or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If another driver's negligence caused the accident, they may be held liable.
- Multiple parties. Sometimes, more than one driver shares responsibility for the accident. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible for compensation. However, your compensation may be reduced in proportion to your level of fault. Our attorneys work to show that the car accident was not in any way your fault.
- Defective vehicle parts. If a car accident occurs due to a defect in your vehicle or its components, such as faulty brakes, tires, or airbags, the manufacturer or distributor of those defective parts may be liable. This could lead to a product liability claim.
- Poor road conditions. In some cases, accidents result from poorly maintained roads or hazardous conditions, such as inadequate signage, potholes, or slippery surfaces. In such instances, the government agency responsible for road maintenance may be liable.
- Employer liability. If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes at the time of the accident, their employer may also share liability under the legal principle of vicarious liability.
- Uninsured or underinsured drivers. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy may provide coverage through uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
To determine liability in your specific car accident case in Litchfield, it's crucial to conduct a thorough investigation. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can be invaluable in assessing liability, gathering evidence, and pursuing compensation from the responsible parties. They can help protect your rights and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process.
What are common car accident injuries?
Car accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, varying in severity depending on the collision's impact and the use of safety measures like seat belts and airbags. Some common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries in car accidents. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and then backward, causing neck strain and soft tissue damage.
- Broken bones. Fractures and broken bones can happen in any part of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones.
- Cuts and abrasions. Glass shards, flying debris, or contact with sharp objects in the vehicle can lead to cuts, scrapes, and lacerations.
- Brain injuries. Head and brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Symptoms may not be immediately apparent, so it's crucial to seek medical attention after an accident.
- Back injuries. The impact of a car accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in injuries like herniated discs or even paralysis, in severe cases.
- Internal injuries. The force of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, leading to injuries such as internal bleeding, organ damage, or bruising.
- Soft tissue injuries. These include injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which can result in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
- Burns. Burns can occur if a vehicle catches fire or if there's contact with hot surfaces or chemicals. Burns can range from mild to severe and may require extensive medical treatment.
- Psychological injuries. Car accidents can also result in psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.
- Facial injuries. Injuries to the face can include fractures, contusions, and dental injuries. Airbag deployment can sometimes cause facial injuries.
- Chest injuries. Seatbelt use can save lives but may also lead to chest injuries like bruising or rib fractures due to the force of the restraint.
It's essential to seek prompt medical attention after a car accident, even if you don't initially feel injured. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately, and a medical evaluation can help detect and document injuries for potential legal claims.
What is the value of my Litchfield car accident claim?
Car accident victims may need treatment in various ERs, hospitals, and burn centers. You may also need rehabilitation, medications, and surgeries. We work to ensure you receive the proper and full compensation for all of your past, current, and future:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income and wages
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage
All accidents and injuries are different, but our attorneys can talk to you about the potential value of your claim in a free consultation.
How long do I have to file my Litchfield car accident claim?
Here in Illinois, you have up to two years after the accident occurs to bring a claim. If you miss this statute of limitations, your claim will be barred from compensation. Ensure you have an experienced attorney on your side so you don’t miss any deadlines.
Do you have a car accident attorney near me?
Glisson Law is located at 111 East Fourth Street, Suite 400, in Alton, IL. We’re only a block away from City Hall, and there is plenty of parking across the street. There’s also a bus stop right outside our office. Glisson Law conducts phone and video conferences when applicable, and makes home and hospital visits if you cannot travel to us.
Dedicated car accident lawyers serving Litchfield, Illinois
Were you or a loved one injured in a car accident? Don't delay. Contact our experienced car accident attorneys today for a free consultation. We're here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Get your recovery started now. To schedule a free consultation with an experienced lawyer at Glisson Law in Litchfield, call or fill out our contact form.