Elgin Car Accident Lawyer
One moment you are driving on Randall Road, Route 31, or the Jane Addams Tollway (I-90), and the next, your life is thrown into chaos by a car accident. The aftermath is a whirlwind of pain, confusion, and stress. On top of your physical injuries, you are now facing vehicle repairs, mounting medical bills, and calls from insurance adjusters. You do not have to navigate this overwhelming process alone. At The Law Offices of Anthony R. Scifo, we are dedicated advocates for car accident victims in Elgin. We take on the burden of dealing with the insurance companies so you can focus on what matters most: your recovery.
As an experienced personal injury firm, we understand the tactics insurers use to devalue claims and we know how to fight back. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. For a free, no-obligation review of your case, call our Elgin law office immediately at (847) 628-8311.
Critical First Steps to Protect Your Rights After a Crash
The actions you take in the minutes and days following an accident can have a major impact on your ability to recover fair compensation. If you are involved in a crash, try to take the following steps to protect your health and your claim:
- Prioritize Safety and Medical Care: Your health is the top priority. Move to a safe location if you can, call 911, and accept medical attention. Some serious injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Report the Accident: Always file a police report. It creates an official, unbiased record of the incident that is crucial for your insurance claim.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: If you are able, use your phone to take pictures of the vehicle damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and get the names of any witnesses.
- Be Careful What You Say: Do not admit fault or apologize to anyone at the scene. Stick to the facts when speaking with the police.
- Contact an Attorney Before Speaking to Insurers: Before you give a recorded statement to any insurance company—even your own—contact an experienced car accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
How We Prove Fault and Build a Winning Case
To win a car accident claim, we must prove that the other driver was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries. Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation to build an undeniable case on your behalf. We routinely handle cases involving:
- Distracted Driving: Including texting while driving, which is a leading cause of serious accidents.
- Speeding and Aggressive Driving: Drivers who violate traffic laws and endanger others.
- Drunk or Drugged Driving (DUI): Holding impaired drivers accountable for their reckless choices.
- Intersection Accidents: Running red lights or stop signs, or failing to yield the right-of-way.
- Rear-End Collisions: Often caused by following too closely or not paying attention.
We gather all necessary evidence, including police reports, witness testimony, traffic camera footage, cell phone records, and, when necessary, we hire accident reconstruction experts to prove exactly how the crash occurred.
Fighting the Insurance Company for Full Compensation
Insurance adjusters are not on your side. Their primary job is to protect their company’s profits by minimizing or denying claims. We handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company for you, fighting for the maximum compensation you are entitled to under the law.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, thousands are injured in crashes across the state each year, resulting in enormous costs. We fight to make sure those costs are covered by the responsible party, not by you. This includes compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: All costs from the emergency room visit to surgery, physical therapy, and future medical needs.
- Lost Wages: Income you have lost and will lose in the future due to your inability to work.
- Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional trauma you have endured.
- Loss of a Normal Life: Damages for the loss of enjoyment of your daily activities and hobbies.
In the most tragic cases, where an accident results in a fatality, we provide compassionate guidance to help families file a wrongful death claim to secure justice for their loved one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elgin Car Accident Claims
Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer?
No. You should never accept a settlement offer without first speaking to an attorney. Initial offers are almost always lowball amounts that do not cover the full extent of your future medical needs and other damages. Signing a release for a low offer is final and you cannot ask for more money later.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
If you were hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver, you can likely file a claim with your own insurance company under your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. We can represent you in this process to ensure your own insurer treats you fairly.
How long do I have to file a claim in Illinois?
The statute of limitations for a car accident injury claim in Illinois is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is critical to take legal action well before this deadline expires to preserve your rights.
No Fee Unless We Win. Call for a Free Case Review.
You have been through enough. Let us take on the legal fight so you can concentrate on your health and your family. The Law Offices of Anthony R. Scifo is ready to put our experience to work for you.
Call our Elgin office today at (847) 628-8311 for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.