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Chicago is a vibrant city with a rich history. It’s no wonder so many people spend their vacations here. While most leave with happy memories, if you’ve been in a car accident while visiting the Windy City, you’ve probably had a different experience.
Any car crash can leave you stressed and confused, but especially one that happens while you are far away from home. If you or a loved one has been injured, that adds another layer of complexity. Our vacation car accident lawyers in Chicago can help you figure it all out.
Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., has recovered over $100 million in awards and settlements for our injured clients. When you are hurt in an accident, Choose Charlie. Call now for your free consultation and find out how our Chicago car accident lawyers can help.
Accidents in Chicago When You Are From Another State
If you are from Illinois, generally the same laws and regulations that would apply in your hometown are in force if you have an accident in Chicago. However, if you are from another state, it’s important to understand that Illinois law controls your claim.
While your auto insurance generally follows you across state lines, any lawsuit must be handled under Illinois rules. If the case becomes serious, only a lawyer admitted to practice in Illinois can file a lawsuit or appear in court there.
Many cases settle through insurance, but legal representation is often necessary. Whether you are from Illinois or another state or country, contact our Chicago personal injury lawyers to discuss your case and get a better understanding of how your claim will proceed.
Damages in a Vacation Car Accident
Our team will investigate your crash to identify all at-fault parties and collect evidence to show they are liable for your damages. For an auto accident claim, you can typically recover financial compensation for things like medical expenses, lost wages, and sometimes pain and suffering.
Illinois law allows you to pursue damages that are reasonably connected to the accident. That means you may be able to recover some of your non–refundable costs due to your vacation being cut short or missing a certain part of it.
These damages can cover losses like:
- Non-refundable hotel reservations
- Prepaid excursions or tours
- Event tickets
- Rental car expenses you couldn’t use
- Airline change or cancellation fees
Do You Have to Return to Chicago for Your Vacation Accident Claim?
If you are injured in an accident in Illinois, you usually do not have to travel back for your legal case. Most accident claims in Chicago are resolved through insurance settlements without going to court.
Our vacation car accident attorneys in Chicago can handle negotiations, filings, and most court appearances on your behalf. Depositions and pretrial hearings are often conducted remotely, especially for out-of-state plaintiffs.
However, if your case proceeds all the way to trial, you may be required to appear in person.
Comparative Negligence in Chicago
For accidents that take place within Illinois, it is important to note that you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. Illinois follows the modified comparative negligence doctrine.
This means that any damages awarded to the plaintiff will simply be reduced by their percentage of fault. However, a plaintiff who is 50% or more at fault will be barred from recovering compensation altogether.
Insurers may use this law to deflect blame from their clients and attempt to unjustly claim you were partially or fully responsible. Our Chicago vacation car accident lawyers have seen these tactics before, and we will seek the evidence necessary to put fault where it belongs.
Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents in Illinois
It is important to contact our firm as soon after your accident as possible. Illinois only allows a certain amount of time during which you may bring legal action, and if you miss that deadline, you lose your right to file a lawsuit.
Per 735 ILCS 5/13-202, that timeline is two years from the date of your accident and injury, in most cases. However, there can be exceptions, and it’s important to know which may apply to you. Consult with our attorneys to know where you stand so you don’t miss your chance.
Get Help from Our Vacation Car Accident Lawyers in Chicago
If you have been in a car accident on vacation, you may have all the challenges of a normal car accident, such as injuries and a long recovery period ahead, combined with the uncertainty of how to pursue compensation. It can be confusing for sure, but you have help.
Our vacation car accident attorneys in Chicago understand how to manage accidents involving out-of-state drivers, rental cars, and other common hazards people often face. Hopefully, your car accident didn’t ruin your visit to Chicago. It doesn’t have to ruin your life either.
Our team at Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., has more than 75 years of combined legal experience. We have been advocating for the rights of injured Illinois residents for more than two decades. Call for your free consultation and tell us about your car crash.
