5 Reasons To Hire A Car Accident Lawyer

Being in a car accident is stressful enough, but dealing with insurance claims, medical bills, and legal complexities can make the situation overwhelming. Many accident victims assume they can handle their claims alone, only to realize that insurance companies don’t always have their best interests in mind.

At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we help accident victims navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a crash, call (312) 236-2900 today for a free consultation.

Why Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer Is Crucial

Many people believe they can negotiate with insurance companies independently, but without legal experience, they often end up with far less than they should. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and without the right legal strategy, you might not get the compensation you need to recover fully.

A skilled attorney does more than file paperwork—they advocate for you at every step, ensuring your rights are protected and that you aren’t taken advantage of. A lawyer can make all the difference if you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost income, or an insurer that won’t play fair. 

How a Lawyer Helps Your Case

1. Understanding Illinois Car Accident Laws

Illinois has specific laws governing car accident claims, and one of the most important is the comparative negligence rule. Under this rule, your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. For example, if you’re deemed 20% responsible, your final settlement is reduced by 20%.

An attorney understands how these laws work and will fight back against any unjust blame-shifting tactics from the insurance company. They’ll gather evidence, work with experts, and present a strong case that clearly establishes the other party’s liability.

Additionally, Illinois has a statute of limitations for filing car accident lawsuits—typically two years from the date of the crash. You may lose your right to compensation entirely if you miss this deadline. A lawyer ensures that all deadlines are met and that your case is handled properly from start to finish.

2. Navigating the Insurance Claims Process

Insurance companies are businesses that prioritize profits, which means they often try to minimize payouts by:

• Denying claims outright, arguing that the accident wasn’t their policyholder’s fault
• Delaying the process, hoping you’ll accept a lower settlement out of frustration
• Downplaying injuries suggests that your pain and suffering are exaggerated
• Pressuring you into a quick settlement, which may not cover future medical costs or lost wages

A lawyer takes on the burden of dealing with the insurance company, so you don’t have to. They handle all negotiations, paperwork, and legal hurdles, ensuring that your claim is properly valued and aggressively pursued. 

3. Calculating Your Full Compensation

Most accident victims only consider their immediate medical expenses when thinking about compensation. However, a full and fair settlement should include all past, present, and future losses related to the crash. A lawyer helps you determine the true value of your claim, including:

• Medical expenses – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments
• Future medical costs – If your injuries require long-term care or result in permanent disability
• Lost wages – Compensation for missed work due to your injuries
• Reduced earning capacity – If your ability to work is impacted in the long term
• Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced quality of life
• Property damage – Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and personal belongings
• Emotional distress – PTSD, anxiety, depression, or mental anguish caused by the crash

4. Negotiating a Fair Settlement

Insurance adjusters rarely offer a fair amount upfront. They may present a settlement that only covers a fraction of your actual losses, hoping you’ll accept it before realizing the full extent of your damages.

A skilled attorney will review the insurance company’s offer, counter with a well-documented demand for more, and push back against lowball offers and bad-faith tactics.

5. Representing You in Court, If Needed

If negotiations fail and the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit and take your case to court. While many cases settle before trial, having an experienced litigator by your side increases your leverage during negotiations.

Without legal representation, it’s difficult to navigate court procedures, understand legal jargon, or counter the defense’s tactics. A trial-ready lawyer ensures that you have a strong case from start to finish, whether at the negotiating table or in front of a judge.

What to Do After a Car Accident to Protect Your Claim

Taking the right steps after an accident can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a fair settlement.

• Document the Scene – Gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, contact information of witnesses, and the other driver’s insurance and license details.
• Get a Police Report – A police report provides an official accident record, which insurance companies rely on when assessing claims.
• Seek Medical Attention Immediately – A medical report strengthens your claim and prevents insurers from arguing that your injuries weren’t serious.
• Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Before Speaking to Insurers—Insurance companies may pressure you to accept a quick settlement. Speak to a lawyer first to ensure your rights are protected.

Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. Will Fight for You

At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we’ve helped countless clients in Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Elgin, and surrounding areas recover fair compensation after a crash. We know how to stand up to insurance companies and will fight to get you the best possible outcome.

Call us today at (312) 236-2900 to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can help you move forward with confidence.