What Happens If Multiple Drivers Are at Fault in an Illinois Car Accident?

Car accidents are rarely simple. In many cases, more than one driver may share responsibility for what happened. Picture a busy Chicago intersection where one driver runs a red light while another is speeding. The crash is not entirely the fault of one person. Situations like this are more common than most people realize, and the laws in Illinois are designed to address them fairly. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident where fault is unclear, speaking with Attorney Michael J. Brennan can make all the difference. Contact his office today for a free legal consultation.

Understanding Fault in Illinois Car Accidents

Illinois follows a rule known as modified comparative negligence. This law recognizes that more than one driver can play a role in causing an accident. Under this system, you can recover compensation for your injuries and losses as long as you are less than 50 percent at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of fault.

For example, imagine your damages total one hundred thousand dollars. If you are found to be 20 percent responsible for the crash, you can still receive compensation, but your award will be reduced to eighty thousand dollars. On the other hand, if you are assigned 51 percent or more of the blame, you cannot recover damages. This makes it very important to understand how fault is determined and how percentages are assigned.

How Fault Is Determined After a Crash

When multiple drivers are involved, figuring out who is responsible can be complicated. Police officers at the scene often create a report that includes their observations, statements from drivers, and accounts from any witnesses. Insurance companies also conduct their own investigations. They review photos, traffic camera footage, skid marks, and sometimes even data from the vehicles themselves.

Each party involved may try to shift blame to reduce their financial responsibility. It is not unusual for insurance companies to disagree about who is at fault or how much responsibility each driver should bear. This tug of war can slow down the claims process and make it stressful for victims who need help with medical bills and lost income. Having an experienced attorney step in can level the playing field and ensure that your side of the story is properly represented.

Common Situations Where Drivers Share Fault

Shared fault can occur in many different types of accidents. One common example is a chain reaction on a busy roadway. If one driver stops suddenly and another driver is following too closely, both may share responsibility when multiple vehicles collide.

Intersections are another hotspot for disputes over fault. A driver who fails to yield may be mostly responsible, but if another driver was texting or speeding, they may also share some of the blame. Multi car pile ups on highways often involve several drivers who each played a role in creating the conditions for a crash. Even something as simple as failing to use a turn signal while changing lanes can lead to shared liability.

These examples show that accidents are rarely black and white. Small decisions made in the moments before impact can have a big influence on how fault is divided.

Protecting Your Right to Compensation

If you are involved in a car accident where fault may be shared, what you do immediately afterward can affect your claim. Start by making sure everyone is safe and call for medical help if needed. Gather as much information as possible at the scene, including photos, videos, and contact details from witnesses. Be careful with your words. Even a casual apology can be twisted into an admission of fault.

Once you notify your insurance company, provide the facts but avoid speculating about who caused the accident. Remember that insurers often look for ways to reduce payouts. Seeking medical care right away is also important, not only for your health but also for documenting your injuries.

Finally, reach out to a car accident attorney before entering into settlement talks. A lawyer can challenge unfair fault assignments, collect additional evidence, and negotiate for the maximum compensation available under Illinois law.

Get Help If Multiple Drivers Are at Fault

Car accidents involving more than one at fault driver can feel overwhelming. Illinois law allows you to recover damages as long as you are less than half responsible, but insurance companies often use this rule to minimize what they pay. By working with a skilled attorney, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the full amount you deserve.

If you have been injured in an Illinois car accident where fault is in dispute, do not wait. Contact Attorney Michael J. Brennan today for a free legal consultation and find out how he can help you move forward.