In the aftermath of a car wreck, you may be wondering what kind of legal options are available to you. This crash course will cover three common types of car wrecks and their corresponding litigation paths with an attorney.
Process Of Filing A Claim
If you believe you’re entitled to compensation, car wreck attorneys in Chicago can help you take your case to court. Most legal proceedings start with your lawyer filing the initial claim. This document sets forth the facts of your case, outlines your rights, and demands that the other party pay you what’s rightfully yours. Claim forms vary from state to state, but they all have one common goal: to get compensation for you and your family.
Once the claim is filed, the other party has a few weeks to respond. If they don’t, your lawyer can take the next step and commence litigation. This means hiring an attorney to represent you in court and negotiate a settlement.
Types of Of Damages Car Wrecks Cause
The type of car wreck you were in can affect which legal options are available to you. A rear-end collision, for example, is typically treated like an automobile accident – meaning that both drivers are generally considered at fault. This can result in different damages than a head-on collision, which is considered an intentional act. Regardless of the type of car wreck, you’ll likely be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Bear in mind that not all car wrecks result in a lawsuit. If the other driver was driving under the influence (DUI), for example, filing a claim may not be worth your time or money. Consult with an attorney before making any decisions about your legal rights.
1. Frontal Collisions
In a frontal collision, the front of your car impacts the front of the other car. This is the most common type of car wreck, and it typically results in relatively minor injuries. If you are injured in a frontal collision, you may have a legal claim against the driver of the other car.
The key to winning a frontal collision claim is proving that the other driver was at fault. You can do this by gathering evidence such as eyewitness accounts or police reports. If you cannot prove that the other driver was at fault, your claim may be unsuccessful.
2. Side Collisions
In a side collision, one car impacts another from the side. This type of crash is more dangerous than a frontal collision because it can result in more serious injuries. If you are injured in a side collision, you may have a legal claim against both drivers involved in the accident.
To win a side collision claim, you must show that one of the drivers was at fault for causing the accident. You can do this by gathering evidence such as eyewitness accounts or police reports. If you cannot prove that one of the drivers was at fault, your claim may be unsuccessful.
3. Rollover Wrecks
A rollover wreck occurs when your car flips over after hitting another object or driving off the road incorrectly. This type of wreck is particularly dangerous because it often results in serious injuries or death. If you are involved in a rollover wreck, speak to an attorney immediately. They can provide you with advice on what to do next and how to protect your rights.
4. Rear-End Wrecks
In a rear-end wreck, the car in front of you suddenly hits your vehicle from the back. This type of crash is particularly dangerous because it often results in serious injuries or death. To win a rear-end wreck claim, you must show that one of the drivers was at fault for causing the accident. You can do this by gathering evidence such as eyewitness accounts or police reports. If you cannot prove that one of the drivers was at fault, your claim may be unsuccessful.
5. Truck Wrecks
Truck wrecks are one of the most common types of accidents in America. In a truck wreck, your car crashes into the side or rear of a truck. This type of crash is particularly dangerous because it often results in serious injuries or death. To win a truck wreck claim, you must show that one of the drivers was at fault for causing the accident. You can do this by gathering evidence such as eyewitness accounts or police reports. If you cannot prove that one of the drivers was at fault, your claim may be unsuccessful.
Not Every Collision Has Litigation Options
Settlement claims aren’t always an option when you’re involved in a car wreck. Some collisions don’t result in any injuries or property damage. In these cases, you may not have any legal options.
The other party may try to claim that you’re at fault, saying you were driving distracted by using handheld devices like electric cigarettes, phones, radios, GPS units, or computers. If this is the case, the other party may be able to sue you for damages.
Insurance companies may settle claims without involving a lawyer. However, you should always consult with an attorney if you think you have a valid claim.
If you have been involved in a car wreck, contact an experienced Chicago car wreck attorney. An attorney can help you build the strongest case possible and protect your rights.
