Swansea Car Accident Lawyers

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Swansea, Illinois, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation to help you navigate the aftermath. The Cates Law Firm is dedicated to helping individuals and families recover after a car accident. Our skilled Swansea car accident lawyers are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.

Why Choose The Cates Law Firm?

At The Cates Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on you and your family. Our team is committed to providing personalized legal services that cater to your unique needs. With a proven track record of successful outcomes, we have earned the trust of our clients by fighting tirelessly for justice and compensation.

Our experienced lawyers are well-versed in Illinois laws regarding car accidents. We handle all aspects of your case, from negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court. Let us help you seek the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Swansea, Illinois

Car accidents can happen for many reasons. Some common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting, using the phone, or engaging with in-car technologies divert attention from the road.
• Speeding: Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions increases the likelihood of accidents and their severity.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and decision-making ability, contributing to accidents.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and ignoring traffic laws can lead to dangerous accidents.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, snow, or ice can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, increasing the risk of crashes.
• Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures such as faulty brakes or tire blowouts can cause accidents.
• Drowsy Driving: Fatigue can impair concentration and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents.

Common Types of Car Accident Injuries

Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening conditions. Some of the most common injuries resulting from car accidents in Swansea include:

• Whiplash: Neck strain or sprain caused by a sudden jerking motion.
• Broken Bones: Fractures to arms, legs, ribs, or other areas of the body.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Serious injury to the head or brain that can lead to long-term cognitive impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal column that can cause paralysis or other serious effects.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, and PTSD that may result from the traumatic event.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Swansea, Illinois

After a car accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect your rights and ensure that you have the best chance of receiving compensation for your injuries and damages. Here’s what you should do:

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location, if possible, and stay in the car with your seatbelt on if you can’t move.
• Call the Police: Report the accident to law enforcement for documentation and obtain a copy of the police report.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, and surroundings, and record the names and contact information of witnesses.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked by a healthcare professional and document any injuries or conditions related to the accident.
• Contact an Experienced Lawyer: Call a lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case and get legal guidance on how to proceed with your claim.

How Can a Swansea Car Accident Lawyer Help?

At The Cates Law Firm, our lawyers are dedicated to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can help:

• Investigating the Accident: We gather evidence, including police reports and witness statements, and may consult accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Our lawyers handle all communications with insurance adjusters to secure a fair settlement that covers all your damages.
• Filing a Lawsuit: If necessary, we will file a lawsuit to protect your rights and represent you in court.
• Handling All Legal Aspects: We take care of paperwork, deadlines, and court procedures, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims in Illinois

In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. If you fail to file within this time frame, you could lose your right to pursue compensation.

Determining Fault in a Car Accident Case

In Illinois, fault is determined based on comparative negligence laws. This means that if you are found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. However, your award will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will not be able to recover damages.

Filing a Claim if You Are Partially at Fault

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you were partially at fault. However, under Illinois’ comparative negligence law, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.

Types of Damages You Can Claim After a Car Accident

Depending on the circumstances of the crash, you may be entitled to the following types of damages:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to your injuries and recovery time.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Compensation for damage to your vehicle and other property.
• Emotional Distress: Reimbursement for anxiety, depression, and PTSD resulting from the accident.

Insurance Requirements in Illinois

Illinois law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage to help protect against the costs of accidents. This is critical information when pursuing a claim, as insurance coverage can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Minimum Required Insurance Coverage in Illinois:

• Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
• Property Damage Liability: $20,000 per accident.

This coverage helps cover the costs of injuries or damages to others involved in an accident, but it does not cover your own medical bills or property damage. To cover these costs, you may want to consider additional coverage options, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or collision insurance.

Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial in determining how you will be compensated for your injuries and damages. Your lawyer can help navigate your insurance options and ensure you’re properly compensated for your losses.

Cost of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer in Illinois

At The Cates Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay us unless we win your case. Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover on your behalf, making it easier for you to get the legal help you need without upfront costs.

Contact Our Swansea Car Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact The Cates Law Firm for a free consultation. Our experienced Swansea car accident lawyers will evaluate your case. Call 618-277-3644 or complete our online form. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we serve clients in St. Louis, Belleville, East St. Louis, Edwardsville, Granite City, Waterloo, Chester, Carbondale, St. Clair County, Madison County, Monroe County, Randolph County, and other regions throughout Southern Illinois.