Dedicated Support For Victims Of Southern Illinois Car Accidents
After a car accident, it can feel like your whole life is falling apart. Let me pursue the legal solutions you need to start putting things back together. I am car accident attorney Tom Speedie. From my offices in Nashville and Mounds, I fight for fair compensation for car accident victims throughout Southern Illinois. Harnessing my over 25 years of legal experience, I aim to simplify the car accident claim process as much as possible for my clients. You can count on my law firm, Tom Speedie, Attorney at Law, P.C., for the personalized support you deserve after a crash.
Steps To Take After A Car Accident
Taking the right steps after a car accident can be crucial for preserving your legal rights and safeguarding your health. Important things to do in the aftermath of a crash include:
- Report the car accident to the authorities
- Exchange information with the other people involved in the car accident
- Take photos or videos of the accident scene and any vehicle damage
- Remain at the scene until you’re given the all-clear to leave
- Promptly seek medical attention
- Speak to a trusted car accident lawyer
- Notify your insurer of the car accident
The actions you take following a crash can have significant impacts on your case. Missteps can be costly. As your car accident lawyer, I can guide you forward and help you steer clear of errors that could harm your best interests.
Can You Get Compensation For A Car Accident?
Illinois is a fault state when it comes to auto accidents. This means you can generally pursue compensation if another party was responsible for your car accident. Types of unsafe conduct that can lead to crashes include:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Fatigued driving
- Speeding
- Tailgating
- Failing to obey traffic signals
I stand up for victims of negligent drivers in Southern Illinois. If you are in a car accident, I can help you determine if you have grounds for a compensation claim.
What If You Were Partially At Fault For Your Car Accident?
If your own actions contributed to your car accident, whether you can still bring a legal claim depends on how at fault you were. Under Illinois’ modified comparative fault rules:
- If you are 50% or less at fault: You can pursue a claim, with your compensation being reduced by your amount of fault.
- If you are 51% or more at fault: You can’t bring a claim.
I can guide you on how these rules might apply to your car accident case and what they could mean for your overall compensation rights.
What Car Accident Damages May Be Available?
Car accident victims can pursue compensation for a wide range of things here in Southern Illinois, including:,
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
The type and amount of damages you might qualify for depend on the specifics of your car accident. I stand ready to provide you with an honest assessment of your case’s potential worth and seek the compensation you deserve.
What Are The Auto Insurance Coverage Requirements In Illinois?
Illinois requires all drivers in the state to carry auto insurance. The state’s minimum coverage requirements include:
- $20,000 per accident for property damage
- $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for injury/death
With auto insurance coverage being mandatory in the state, most Illinois car accident claims are made against the insurance company of the at-fault driver. With my knowledge of Illinois auto insurance law and skill at navigating interactions with insurers, I am here to assist you with all aspects of pursuing such a claim.
How Long Does It Take To Reach A Car Accident Settlement?
The timeline for settlement negotiations in car accident cases can vary quite a bit. Sometimes, such negotiations go quickly, while other times they may extend for months. Things that could cause a car accident settlement to take longer include:
- Evidence issues
- A car accident being particularly complex
- Disputes over the extent of your injuries
- Conflicts over where the fault lies
- An insurer being resistant to compromise
As a skilled negotiator, I can craft and implement a tailored strategy for seeking a fair car accident settlement for you in an efficient way that can help you steer clear of common roadblocks.
What If The Insurer Refuses To Reach A Fair Settlement In Your Car Accident Case?
Auto insurers are very protective of their bottom line, and they may fight very hard to minimize payouts for car accidents. If a fair settlement cannot be reached with the other driver’s insurance company, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary. I can help you with all aspects of taking such legal action.
How Much Time Do You Have To Bring An Illinois Car Accident Lawsuit?
The statute of limitations for most car accident claims in Illinois is two years from the crash. However, if your car accident claim is just for property damage, the deadline is five years instead. I can provide you with clear explanations of the important time limits that apply to your car accident case.
Why Get An Experienced Car Accident Lawyer?
There are many advantages to having strong legal support when pursuing a car accident claim. An experienced car accident attorney can provide you with:
- Knowledgeable guidance through every step of the process
- Skilled assistance in gathering evidence related to your car accident
- A strong voice in negotiations
- Dedicated representation in legal proceedings
- Advocacy focused on protecting your rights and pursuing the car accident compensation you deserve
I am ready to meet your unique legal needs with honesty, responsiveness and dedication.
Contact Me Now For A Free Car Accident Consultation
Let me help you fight for the compensation you need to bounce back from a car accident and its many impacts. Learn more about your rights and my car accident claim services in a free consultation. You can schedule one today by calling 800-584-0812 or contacting me online.
