Improper or erratic lane changes are just one of many factors that are an indication of aggressive driving, according to the Insurance Information Institute. However, this behavior is not always the result of aggression. An improper lane change could include changing lanes without signaling or turning on your signal as you’re already beginning to change lanes.
Regardless of the exact circumstances, the reality is that improper lane changes are dangerous and can quickly cause accidents. If you or someone you love is hurt and in pain because of a driver who changed lanes improperly, you have the right to hold them responsible for their negligence, and a Chicago improper lane changes lawyer may be able to help.
The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm has worked on many car accident cases, and we are proud of our results. We understand the laws that impact these cases, how to avoid untimely delays, and the evidence we need to gather to determine liability. We also work on a contingency fee basis only, which means we only get paid if we succeed with your claim. We ask for nothing upfront or out of pocket from you.
For a free, no-risk review of your case, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 794-0444.
Common Types of Injuries That Occur in Car Accidents
The types of injuries that you are suffering from can vary depending on the severity of the accident. However, some common types of injuries that occur in car accidents include:
- Whiplash: Caused by a rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, whiplash is a common injury in rear-end collisions, according to Mayo Clinic. These injuries typically heal within a few days or weeks of the injury, although some people experience pain for months or even years.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Car accidents are the second leading cause of hospitalizations due to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Fractures: Fractures commonly occur in car accidents because of the force created by the impact of the collision. According to Healthline, the severity of the break is typically determined by the strength of the force involved.
- Spinal cord injuries: A spinal cord injury typically impact’s the victim’s sensation and mobility. Most people with spinal cord injuries have to use wheelchairs and other assistive devices to get around after the accident, according to Healthline.
A Chicago improper lane changes lawyer can help you hold the negligent driver responsible for your injuries, whether you are suffering from one of these injuries or something else. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for a free case review.
Illinois Laws That Could Impact Your Claim
There are two laws that you should be aware of that could impact your car accident claim: the Illinois statute of limitations and negligence laws.
Statute of Limitations
According to Illinois Statute 735 ILCS 5, a plaintiff has two years to file a personal injury claim after being involved in an accident. If you do not file your claim within two years, you are typically barred from recovering any amount of compensation. While this may appear to be a lengthy period of time, it can pass quickly if you are healing from an accident. Additionally, memory can fade, and evidence can disappear over time. The sooner you begin working on your claim, the easier it will be to build a case pursuing compensation.
Negligence Laws
Illinois is a modified comparative negligence state. That means if you are partially at fault for causing an accident, you can still recover compensation, but only up until the 51% threshold. That means if your degree of liability is 51% or greater, you will be barred from recovering any of your losses. If you are deemed to be less than 50% responsible, you can recover compensation, but your award will be reduced by the degree to which you were at fault.
For example, let’s say the accident was caused primarily by another driver’s improper lane change. However, the defense proves you were distracted at the time of the collision and are 20% at-fault. This means you can only recover 80% of the total compensation awarded.
For a free legal consultation with a Improper Lane Changes Accidents Lawyer serving Chicago, call (800) 794-0444
Recoverable Damages After an Accident Caused by an Improper Lane Change
Every case is different, and the types of damages you may recover depend on the details of your case, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your financial losses, and impact the accident will have on your future. Some of the possible recoverable damages include things like:
- Hospital stays
- Medication
- Assistive devices
- Doctor’s examinations
- Physical therapy
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Future wages if your earning potential is impacted
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
Wrongful Death
If your loved one suffered severe injuries in the car accident and did not survive the accident or passed later as a result of complications, your family may be entitled to compensation in a wrongful death claim. Some possible recoverable damages after a wrongful death claim include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of support and protection
- Pain and suffering
- Wages and benefits previously provided by the deceased
Chicago Improper Lane Changes Accidents Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
How a Chicago Improper Lane Changes Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer who has worked on cases like yours can help you by building a strong case pursuing compensation to the fullest extent of your injuries. Some specific ways they can help are:
- Offering legal advice and answering any questions you might have
- Gathering evidence like police reports and eyewitness statements
- Calculating the full value of your case by examining doctor’s statements, bills, receipts, ad employment records that detail wages lost as a result of time away from work
- Communicating with the defense on your behalf
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Fighting for your rights at trial if an agreeable settlement cannot be reached
You have the right to hold the negligent driver responsible for the damages you are suffering as a result of the accident. Our team wants to help. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 794-0444.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form