Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney In Chicago Helping Victims Get Fair Settlements
A Chicago motor vehicle accident attorney helps people who suffer serious injuries in crashes caused by negligent drivers. These accidents can lead to hospital visits, long-term medical treatment and lost wages.
In Chicago and throughout Cook County and Lake County, victims often face overwhelming medical bills and uncertainty about their futures. Attorney Frederic H. Everly represents clients across Illinois, guiding them through the legal process and pursuing fair compensation after motor vehicle accident injuries. Schedule a free initial consultation today.
Taking A Full Range Of Chicago Motor Vehicle Accident Cases
Attorney Everly works with people who need support after all types of motor vehicle accidents. His practice includes cases involving:
- Passenger vehicle accidents (cars, SUVs, minivans, pickup trucks)
- Accidents with large trucks and commercial vehicles
- Rideshare accidents involving Uber or Lyft vehicles
- Motorcycle accidents and accidents involving e-scooters
- Pedestrian accidents and bicycle accidents
- Underinsured and uninsured motor vehicle crashes
- Collisions leading to traumatic brain injuries and spinal injuries
- Fatal accidents resulting in wrongful death claims
- Severe injuries from car accidents that require extensive recovery
Insurance companies often try to minimize Chicago motor vehicle accident claims by questioning fault or the extent of the injuries. Attorney Everly prepares every case as if it will go to trial, making sure that his clients’ losses are fully documented and their right to compensation is protected.
Understanding Chicago Motor Vehicle Accident Claims
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence system in vehicle accident cases. This means that you can only receive compensation if you have 50% or less of the fault for the accident. If it is 51% or higher, you cannot recover damages. Your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault you share. So if your damages are $30,000 and you have 50% of the fault, you would recover $15,000.
In Illinois, most vehicle accident cases are required to be filed within two years of the accident. This may seem like plenty of time, but you do not want to wait to file a claim. Missing the deadline may mean that you cannot get compensation.
Motor vehicle accident injuries can affect every aspect of a person’s life. A single crash can leave survivors facing surgeries, physical therapy and financial stress. Victims in Cook County, Lake County and the wider Chicago area frequently struggle with unpaid medical bills and the loss of income during recovery. Attorney Everly handles negotiating with insurers, gathering evidence and advocating for your best outcome.
Common Causes of Chicago Motor Vehicle Accidents
When another party’s negligence causes an accident, the injuries may be severe or life-threatening. There are many reasons for car accidents, including:
- Drivers who are speeding or driving recklessly
- Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Vehicles with defective auto parts
- Poorly maintained roadways
- Drowsy driving, especially among commercial truck drivers and rideshare drivers
- Road rage
- Not obeying traffic signs and signals
These are just some of the ways you may have been injured. If your injuries were caused by another type of negligence, contact the firm for assistance.
Types Of Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries And Recoverable Damages
Motor vehicle accident injuries range from serious to fatal, and may include:
- Broken bones and back and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash and nerve damage
- Crush and burn injuries
- Severe road rash and degloving injuries
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
- Permanent disability
- Scarring or disfigurement
Even minor injuries from car accidents can require follow-up hospital visits and extended treatment. You will need considerable compensation to cover your medical bills and other damages. Working with attorney Everly can help you get the compensation you need.
After a car accident, you may be able to get damages for your economic and noneconomic losses.
Your economic damages can include: medical expenses, long-term care, lost income, vehicle damage/replacement, lost benefits, loss of earning capacity and modifications to your home and vehicles. In wrongful death cases, you may also receive damages for funeral and burial expenses.
Noneconomic damages may include: pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, loss of a loved one, emotional distress and mental anguish.
While it is not common, in accidents caused by extreme negligence, the victim and/or their family may also be awarded punitive damages. These are not compensatory damages, but instead are meant to punish the negligent party.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accident Cases
Many clients who contact the firm after car crashes have similar questions. Below are answers to some of the most frequent concerns.
What is the typical process like when filing a motor vehicle accident claim?
Most cases begin with an insurance claim that includes medical records, proof of lost wages and other documentation. If a settlement is not fair, then Attorney Everly may file a lawsuit in Illinois court on your behalf. Each case follows its own timeline, depending on the facts.
How is fault determined in an auto accident in Illinois?
Illinois uses a modified comparative negligence system. This means that fault is divided between the parties based on evidence such as police reports, witness statements and accident reconstruction. Even if you are partly at fault, you may still recover damages, but only if you have 50% or less of the fault.
How much will my car accident case be worth?
Many factors go into determining how much a car accident is worth. The severity of the injuries and extent of the medical treatment will likely make up a large portion of the settlement or jury award. Vehicle damage is another factor. Noneconomic damages such as loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering, emotional distress and the loss of a loved one are also included as appropriate.
Each case is unique, but Attorney Everly can estimate the worth of your car accident case when you speak with him during your free consultation.
Contact A Chicago Motor Vehicle Accident Attorney
If you were injured in a car crash in Chicago, Cook County, Lake County or anywhere else in Illinois, contact Frederic H. Everly, P.C.. Call 872-248-5195 or send the firm a message online. Attorney Everly will review your case and explain your legal options.