Naperville Car Accident Lawyer
Many people move to Naperville due to its proximity to Chicago, acclaimed public and parochial schools, world-class parks, many healthcare options, and remarkably low crime rate. As wonderful as a place Naperville is, unfortunately, it doesn’t lack in its fair share of motor vehicle accidents. If you or a loved one were recently involved in one, don’t delay meeting with a seasoned Naperville car accident lawyer.
The Most Common Causes of Naperville Car Accidents
Car accidents are the result of a variety of different factors, many of them avoidable. When another person’s negligence causes a car accident, they can be held liable for the ensuing damages. The most common causes of Naperville car accidents include:
Speeding: At higher speeds, vehicles take more time to stop or slow down. It’s always tempting for Naperville drivers to exceed legal speed limits when they are in a hurry, but giving in to that temptation can lead to serious motor vehicle accidents and injuries. The higher the speed, the greater the chance of an accident and the greater the chance of severe injuries.
Distracted driving: In Illinois, it’s illegal to use a cell phone while driving. Even still, Naperville drivers distract themselves with their cell phones, eating, grooming, changing GPS controls, and taking part in other forms of distracted driving. When drivers are less attentive to the road, they are less likely to take necessary actions when they need to be taken.
Tailgating: Following too closely to the car in front of you is tailgating. While it might seem like it’s no big deal, it can easily result in rear-end accidents. To avoid these types of crashes, drivers need to keep at least a two-second distance between their car and the one in front of them. During inclimate weather conditions, it’s best to increase this distance to prevent any accidents.
Impaired driving: While impaired driving usually involves a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs, sometimes they can be under the influence of over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Driver fatigue: Truck drivers or drivers who often drive as a part of their job commonly experience fatigue. Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and at an increased risk of falling asleep at the wheel. In fact, some studies show that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving.
Whether your car accident was caused by one of these factors or something else, a Naperville car accident lawyer can help you hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions.
Do You Have a Car Accident Case?
If you were injured in a car accident that likely involved some fault of at least one other party, there’s a good chance you have a valid car accident case. The best way to find out is to schedule a case consultation with an experienced Naperville car accident lawyer. They can review the specific details of your accident and the extent of your injuries to determine if you are entitled to recover damages.
All car crash claims must have these four elements of negligence to recover compensation:
- Duty of care: All drivers are expected to safely maintain and operate their vehicles, adhering to all traffic laws.
- Breach of duty: Doing something or failing to do something that an average person would do if they were in a similar situation. For example, most drivers would stop at a stop sign or drive at or below the speed limit.
- Causation: The at-fault party’s breach of duty resulted in the injured party’s injury and damages.
- Damages: The injured party has compensatory damages as a result of the accident. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If your attorney sees all of these elements of negligence in your claim, there’s a good chance they can help you recover compensation for your damages. Don’t assume that you don’t have a claim. Schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable Naperville car accident attorney and let them determine what your next steps should be. Even if you think you might have some fault in causing the accident, you could still be eligible to receive compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Case?
Under Illinois Compiled Statutes 735 §5/13-202, you have two years from the date of your accident to bring a legal case against the at-fault party. Commonly called the statute of limitations, this deadline helps ensure that personal injury litigation only pertains to recent events.
If you or your Naperville car accident lawyer doesn’t file your claim within the two-year time limit, the court will throw it out, and you won’t receive any compensation for your damages. Hiring the right Naperville car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident is imperative to meeting this deadline. Two years might seem like plenty of time. Still, your attorney needs time to build a strong claim on your behalf, and certain steps must be taken before the statute of limitations expires. In many cases, settlements are negotiated in this timeframe, and the case never goes to court.
Also, it’s essential to note, is that some circumstances have a different statute of limitations. For example, if your claim is against a government entity, you only have one year to file a claim. If your claim involves a minor child, you may have more time to file a claim. Since there are varying deadlines, it can be confusing to know which applies in your case. It’s in your best interest to consult with a skilled Naperville car accident attorney now if you’ve recently been involved in an auto accident.
Were You Injured in an Accident? Call an Experienced Naperville Car Accident Attorney Today
At the Law Offices of Michael J. Brennan, we know how devastating car accidents can be. The negligent and careless actions of one individual can change your life in an instant, both now and forever. We can’t change what has happened, but we can help you pave a better way forward. Receive your free case consultation with an experienced Naperville car accident attorney by calling our reputable firm today at 708-894-1611.