Belleville Car Accident Lawyer
In Belleville, severe traumatic brain injury caused by an unexpected automobile accident can prevent you from living the life you are accustomed to for weeks or even months. When a automobile accident occurs, your body can be moved at high speeds, resulting in muscle sprains, broken bones, bruises, whiplash and other severe injuries. It is common to require extensive medical care to help you recover from automobile accident injuries. If you have been in automobile accident caused by somebody’s negligence, even if it was during a rideshare or carpooling service, you can seek compensation to help cover the cost of your recovery.
Once you have received medical attention, you should speak to automobile accident lawyers in Belleville today. They can hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries. Use our dedicated personal injury attorney to seek legal advice and recover compensation in Madison County after personal injury accident. To speak to experienced and knowledgeable auto accident lawyers in Belleville, IL, call Hipskind and McAninch Attorneys.
Common Ways Drivers Cause Motor Vehicle Accidents
An automobile accident can happen for a vast number of reasons. However, the majority of accidents are caused by driver error. According to the Illinois DOT Division of Traffic Safety, there were 1,076 crashes and 13 fatalities in the city of Belleville in the year 2018. Our page for car crash statistics for this city can be found here
Some examples of how a automobile accident occurs include the following:
Distracted Driving
Many drivers have a bad habit of frequently texting while driving. In the state of Illinois, it is illegal to talk on or hold a phone or any other electronic device while driving. Instead, hand-free methods, such as a headset or using speaker mode, are required. Distracted drivers who avert their eyes from the road quickly increase the risk of causing a terrible accident or car crash. Drivers can also be distracted by other occupants in the car, such as small children, or by engaging in activities that divert their attention away from the road. Driving while distracted can lead to many different kinds of accidents occurring such as a rear end accident, or driving out of the lane.
Aggressive Driving
Aggressive drivers are infamous for causing accidents due to reckless behavior. Aggressive drivers are susceptible to “road rage,” which can put the lives of other drivers in danger. When driving aggressively, drivers may brake check, tailgate, cut off, block, and weave through traffic. This behavior is distracting and makes it difficult for other drivers to anticipate and predict their movements.
Speeding
Drivers who speed put lives at risk because they are more likely to run red lights, fail to pause at stop signs and collide with turning vehicles. Speeding automobiles are unable to slow down quickly or stop before hitting another vehicle. Other drivers also do not have the opportunity to avoid a collision because the speeding vehicle is moving too quickly for a reaction. Speeding drivers require a much longer distance to slow down; it can often require twice as much distance to stop.
Failing to Yielding
Car drivers that fail to yield when required can be the cause of a traffic accident. For example, if a car is merging onto a highway and they do not yield to vehicles already on the road, the merging car could collide with other automobile moving much faster than them. Other places where drivers should yield are roundabouts, intersections, and other places where cars converge onto the road.
Ignoring Traffic Signs
One of the biggest mistakes a car driver can make is by ignoring traffic signs. Running red lights can cause T-bone accidents which often result in catastrophic injuries. Ignoring signs can also cause drivers to hit pedestrians.
Substance Abuse
Another major contribution to negligent driving is substance abuse. Car drivers with a blood alcohol toxicity of over 0.08% should not be driving because it is illegal. Being intoxicated causes drivers to have impaired driving skills. So much so, that there are even laws regarding the sale of alcohol for someone who is clearly intoxicated.
Additionally, drug use of any kind must be avoided before driving. This applies to prescription medicine, which can make a driver sleepy or impaired.
Drowsy Driving
Auto accidents are more likely to occur when drivers are fatigued. Drivers can micro-sleep without realizing it, meaning they fall asleep temporarily for a few seconds before waking up. Sheer exhaustion and fatigue make it difficult for a driver to notice what is happening around them.
Defective Vehicle
Poorly maintained automobiles or automobiles with a manufacturer’s defect can result in an accident. If a car malfunctions, it can lose control and move into the path of other drivers. Manufacturers’ defects have resulted in thousands of fatal automobile accidents.
Common Types of Car Accidents in Belleville We Handle
At Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, we understand that car accidents can happen anywhere, and Belleville, Illinois, is no exception. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys has a deep understanding of the types of collisions that frequently occur in our community, and we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation to those injured in these incidents. We are committed to helping Belleville residents navigate the complexities of car accident claims and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Several factors contribute to the prevalence of certain types of car accidents in Belleville. The combination of urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and rural roads creates a diverse driving environment. Traffic patterns, road conditions, and driver behavior all play a role. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling a wide range of car accident cases, and we are well-versed in the specific challenges that each type of collision presents.
Rear-end collisions are among the most common types of accidents we see in Belleville. These often occur due to driver inattention, following too closely, or sudden stops. Even at low speeds, rear-end collisions can cause significant injuries, including whiplash, back injuries, and concussions. We work diligently to establish liability in these personal injury cases, often by examining factors such as witness testimony, police reports, and vehicle damage.
Intersection accidents are another frequent occurrence, particularly in areas with heavy traffic flow. These collisions often result from drivers running red lights, failing to yield, or making improper turns. Intersection accidents can be particularly dangerous, leading to serious injuries such as side-impact collisions (T-bone accidents) and head-on collisions. We investigate these accidents thoroughly to determine the sequence of events and identify all responsible parties.
Drunk driving accidents are a serious concern in Belleville, as they are across the state. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time, dramatically increasing the risk of accidents. These collisions often result in severe injuries and fatalities. At Hipskind & McAninch, LLC, we are committed to holding drunk drivers accountable for their reckless actions and helping victims obtain the full compensation they are entitled to.
Distracted driving accidents are on the rise in Belleville, fueled by the increasing use of mobile phones and other electronic devices. Texting, talking on the phone, eating, or even adjusting the radio can take a driver’s attention away from the road, leading to devastating consequences. We understand the challenges in proving distracted driving, but we utilize all available resources, including phone records and witness testimony, to build strong cases for our clients.
Sideswipe accidents often occur on multi-lane roads, highways, and during lane changes. These collisions can result from driver negligence, failure to check blind spots, or improper lane changes. While they may sometimes seem minor, sideswipe accidents can cause serious injuries, particularly if they lead to a loss of control or a secondary collision. Our attorneys are skilled in reconstructing these accidents and demonstrating liability.
While less frequent, head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. These collisions typically occur on two-lane roads when a driver crosses the centerline due to distraction, fatigue, or impairment. We have the resources and expertise to handle these complex cases, working with accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the collision and pursue maximum compensation for our clients.
Hipskind & McAninch, LLC is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to car accident victims in Belleville. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these accidents can take, and we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal process and obtain the resources they need to recover.
Belleville Car Accident Victims FAQs
It is a difficult experience being injured in a automobile accident. You can rely on your Belleville car accident lawyer to provide you with the information and advice you need.
What Are Damages That I Can Claim In My Car Accident?
With the help of a personal injury attorney, you can obtain compensation from the negligent party. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering damages, and property damage.
How Do I Choose Between A Lawsuit And A Settlement Claim?
You may be thinking about filing a car accident lawsuit. However, the negligent party will most likely settle outside of court.
Why Is A Settlement Is Better Than A Lawsuit?
Even if you file a car accident lawsuit, the court would assign a mediation meeting for you and the other involved parties. If you and the other party are unable to come to a resolution, then you would be assigned a trial date.
What Happens If I File A Lawsuit?
Filing a lawsuit will result in receiving your settlement at a much later date. The court, your attorney, and the other party will go through the discovery process to investigate the car accident insurance claim. This requires time, which is why filing a lawsuit takes longer than filing a settlement personal injury claim.
How Is The Settlement Paid?
In most car accident cases, the settlement will be paid by the other party’s car insurance company. Settlements are paid in a lump sum amount and typically arrive as a check.
What If A Third Party Is At Fault?
If the accident was due to a manufacturer’s defect, you would receive compensation from the manufacturer’s insurer. In the case the car accident was caused by a construction accident or poorly maintained road, compensation would be provided by the local government.
What Are The Attorney’s Fees?
Hipskind and McAninch car accident lawyers are paid on a contingency fee basis. This means they receive their payment after you have received a settlement award. Your injury attorney takes a percentage of your settlement after you receive it. You are not required to pay any upfront costs. Injury Attorneys provide resources and guide you while they are working to win your case.
What Are Steps to Follow After I Have Been in a Belleville Car Accident?
Car accidents happen in a flash and can leave you completely confused. You need to reach out to authorities, get medical help, collect evidence, and speak to our law firm.
Why Speak To Car Accident Attorneys?
To get started on your car accident claim, your attorney will begin the process of investigating your case. They also represent your best interest when negotiating your personal injury claim so you receive maximum compensation.
What are some of the most common types of car accidents in Belleville?
While specific data can vary, some of the most common types of car accidents in Belleville, Illinois, and the surrounding areas often include:
- Rear-end collisions
- Intersection accidents
- Drunk driving accidents
- Distracted driving accidents
- Sideswipe accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Multi-vehicle collisions
What Car Accident Attorneys Do In Detail
Our personal injury law firm attorneys will perform the following tasks:
Reviewing Photographic Evidence
Your car crash lawyer will analyze the images you provided so they can understand how the motor vehicle accident happened. They can look at the dents and the positioning of the vehicles to help determine how the other driver was at fault.
Obtaining Traffic Camera Footage
Because of their knowledge of traffic law, your personal injury lawyer can use the footage to see how the other driver violated a rule. They may notice the other driver performed an illegal lane change maneuver or was swaying erratically. They can use this information as proof of how the other driver was being negligent.
Reviewing Your Police Report
Your police report may have clues about your injuries. For example, the police may have noticed the other driver had bloodshot eyes and was yawning a lot. In this scenario, your attorney can demonstrate the other driver was drowsy, preventing them from paying attention to the road.
Analyzing Your Medical Expenses
Medical bills are proof you were injured and exhibit the extent of your injuries. If you require surgery, physical therapy, several treatments, and other medical services, your attorney can use this to support your claim. Your medical expenses also help your attorney determine your multiplier for estimating pain and suffering damages.
Calculating Your Damages
Attorneys accurately estimate damages so you are not underpaid. Insurance companies often offer a smaller lump sum than you deserve. Your car accident attorney can estimate economic and non-economic damages to ensure you get the maximum compensation for your damages.
Filing Subpoenas
If the attorney suspects the other driver was texting and driving, they may file a subpoena against the other driver’s cell-phone provider. This allows them to obtain information from the cell-phone usage history to see if the driver may have been texting while driving.
Detailed List Of Damages You Can Claim
Because you were not at fault for your injuries and resultant damages, and it is only fair they compensate you for your losses. Here are some of the damages you can claim after your car crash:
Medical Bills
After you get medical attention, you will likely need to pay many bills to cover the cost of having your injuries treated. Your attorney will use your medical reports and invoices to determine how extensive your injuries were. The doctor may have required you to undergo medical tests, surgery, physical therapy, and a variety of other methods. If the costs continue into the future, this amount will also be included in your settlement.
Property Damage
Your insurance company may help cover some of the expenses required to repair your car. If the damage was so extensive you needed to replace your car, the cost may be beyond your insurance policy maximum. Any additional mechanic fees can also be added to your settlement.
Pain And Suffering
Suffering from guilt, embarrassment, shame, anxiety, or depression, is considered a form of pain and suffering. These types of emotions can weigh you down emotionally and remove the joy from your life. If you are experiencing these feelings due to an auto accident you did not cause, you can be compensated for them. Your attorney will select a multiplier between the number one and seven, then multiply this number against your total economic damages. This will be the total amount of your pain and suffering damages. Your non-economic damages and economic damages make up your entire settlement amount.
Lost Wages
After being injured, you may need to stay home for several weeks or months. Injuries may have caused you to struggle with ordinary tasks or prevented you from holding a full-time job. Any income loss can also be accounted for by your personal injury attorney Belleville. They will help you fight to claim compensation for wages you missed due to your auto accident. This includes any future projected income loss.
Wrongful Death
Because of catastrophic injuries, severe car accidents can sometimes become fatal. The surviving family members closest to the victim, such as the spouse or offspring, can seek compensation on their behalf. Any dependents and individuals named in the will or estate can also be compensated. Wrongful death damages include burial and funeral costs, lost benefits, lost earning capacity, loss of consortium, and other damages that can be accounted for.
Let your auto accident lawyers help you receive fair compensation. You should never be stuck with a heavy financial burden because of another diver’s careless mistakes. Discuss with your attorney any damages that were created by your car accident.
Steps You Should Take After Your Car Accident
The steps you should immediately take include the following:
Call 911
Reach out to local authorities as soon as a collision has occurred. They will send first responders and police to your location. If you are badly injured, you will be sent to a hospital immediately. Notify the police about how your auto accident happened. This will be used as proof you are not at fault by your attorney. Police officers also write citations and request drug tests if they deem it necessary. Your attorney can also use this information to demonstrate you were not at fault.
Take Photographs
You can help your attorney by displaying the severity of the car accident. Taking pictures of the area your car crash occurred and any property damage is necessary. Show all dents, broken glass, and bent metal on your automobile. Take pictures of debris, tire marks, and the rest of the aftermath of your car accident. You can also take photos of any other cars involved. Your attorney will review these images and use them as evidence.
Gather Contact Information
Ensure you collect contact information from the other driver.Your car accident lawyer can contact them later. If there were any eyewitnesses, collect their information as well.
Get Medical Attention
Do not delay visiting a doctor. This prevents the other party from claiming your injuries were not caused by your car accident and helps unveil all your injuries. Soft tissue injuries take longer to appear, but a doctor can find these wounds early.. Your medical bills will be used as evidence to justify your settlement award amount.
Reach Out To Your Insurer
Always update your insurance company and notify them of what happened. Depending on your policy, you can get financial help from them as well.
Speak To A Reliable Attorney Now
While you are recovering from your sustained injuries, your attorney can be working to obtain the best possible settlement for you. You can get a free consultation with our proven team to discuss how to begin your car accident claim, especially if it involves injuries that may lead to a personal injury lawsuit. Our lawyers collect evidence, speak to other parties on your behalf, and represent your best interests to negotiate a fair settlement, navigating the way insurance companies operate, often denying valid claims, and addressing any related legal issues that arise after the injury occurred and impact injury victims. You can trust our legal team to ensure you are treated fairly. To receive a free consultation, contact Hipskind and McAninch Attorneys!