Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Minor Car Accident?
Were you or a loved one involved in a minor car accident recently? You might think you can handle it on your own, especially if the damage to your car and your injuries seem small. However, even a minor crash can bring hidden problems and unexpected costs.
In Illinois, you may have the right to seek compensation if another driver’s negligence caused the accident—no matter how big or small it looked at first. Below, we’ll explain what types of damages you can pursue, how a lawyer could help, and why you shouldn’t dismiss the idea of hiring legal help.
Potential Damages After a Minor Car Accident
You may think a minor crash means minimal injuries and costs. But the reality is that some injuries and losses aren’t obvious right away.
In Illinois, you can pursue several types of damages if another driver caused your accident:
- Medical expenses: Even if you only went to urgent care or had a quick check-up, those bills can add up. Sometimes, minor whiplash or sprains worsen over time, requiring more doctor visits or physical therapy. You can seek money for all medical costs related to the crash, both now and in the future.
- Lost wages: If you miss work to recover from your injuries, those lost earnings may be included in your claim. Even a few days off can create financial stress, especially if you live on a tight budget.
- Property damage: Repairing dents, scratches, or other damage to your car might cost more than you think. You can pursue compensation for fixing or replacing your vehicle, as well as any items damaged in the accident (like electronics or personal belongings).
- Pain and suffering: Illinois law also lets you seek compensation for the physical pain or emotional distress caused by the crash. Minor injuries can still result in ongoing discomfort, and the emotional impact shouldn’t be overlooked.
- Other expenses: You might need to rent a car, pay for help with household tasks, or buy medication for pain. All these extra costs can be part of your accident claim.
Minor accidents can still lead to major hassles and bills. If you don’t account for future expenses, you might accept less compensation than you really need. That’s one reason many people choose to speak with a lawyer, even if their injuries and car damage seem small at first.
How a Lawyer Can Help With Your Case
An attorney can do more than just file paperwork.
Here are some ways a lawyer can make a difference after a minor car accident:
- Gathering evidence: Proving fault is key. A lawyer can collect photos, police reports, and witness statements. They’ll also review medical records and accident scene details.
- Dealing with insurance: Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their goal is often to minimize how much they pay. A lawyer knows these tactics and can negotiate for a fair settlement.
- Estimating damages: You might focus on the costs you see right now, like car repairs. A lawyer will look at future medical bills, lost income if your injuries get worse, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
- Protecting you from blame: Illinois uses a modified comparative negligence rule. If an insurer tries to claim you were partly responsible, your attorney can push back with evidence.
- Going to court if needed: Most car accident claims end in settlements. But if negotiations fail, an attorney can file a lawsuit. Experienced trial lawyers can present your case effectively before a judge or jury.
Even small collisions can become complicated if injuries worsen or the insurance company disputes who caused the crash. Having a lawyer offers peace of mind that someone is watching out for your best interests, both now and later on.
Illinois’s Fault System for Car Accidents
Illinois follows a fault-based system for motor vehicle accidents. If another driver caused the collision, you can file a claim against that driver’s insurance. You also have the right to file a lawsuit if needed.
Here’s what to know:
- Modified comparative negligence: In Illinois, you can still receive compensation if you’re partially at fault, as long as you aren’t more than 50% responsible for the crash. If you share the blame, your payout is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you’re 20% at fault, you only get 80% of your total damages.
- Insurance claims: You usually start by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. That company might try to argue your role in the accident to cut down on how much they pay.
- Lawsuits: If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, you can sue the at-fault driver. Proving negligence in court can be challenging without legal help, especially if the other side tries to shift blame.
Even in a minor crash, these fault and blame issues can arise. A small dispute can turn into a bigger fight when an insurance adjuster won’t budge. A lawyer can help keep the process fair and ensure you aren’t unjustly blamed or paid too little.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Should you hire a lawyer after a minor car accident? It depends on your specific details. Some small collisions are easy to handle without an attorney, especially if there’s no disagreement about who caused it and your injuries are truly minor. But in many cases, things become more complicated over time—bills add up, injuries worsen, or insurers start shifting blame.
A car accident lawyer can manage these issues and advocate for fair compensation. They’ll handle the legal and insurance hurdles, so you don’t have to. If you’re unsure, consider scheduling a free consultation with a trusted personal injury attorney in Illinois. Even if you decide not to hire them, you’ll walk away with valuable information and peace of mind.
Contact Our Northbrook Car Accident Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Northbrook, IL, and need legal help, contact our Northbrook car accident lawyers at Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case review today.
Kass & Moses Personal Injury Lawyers
601 Skokie Blvd Suite 401
Northbrook, IL 60062
(847) 513-9582
