All drivers on Illinois roads owe a duty to all other drivers to behave reasonably. Unfortunately, thousands of drivers in Illinois each year breach this duty and cause injury to others. A lack of understanding of the legal process could prevent an injured party from obtaining the compensation to which they are entitled.
Know Your Injury
Injuries sustained in an auto accident persist long after the end of the collision. It is important, as a plaintiff, to seek medical attention and receive a proper diagnosis and prognosis of your injuries. Knowing the extent of your injury will help determine when and how much you are willing to accept in a settlement.
Know Your Rights
When a driver or passenger has been injured by the carelessness of another driver, Illinois law allows the injured party to seek compensation. Illinois is a “contributory negligence†jurisdiction. This means that even if you contributed to your own injuries, you are entitled to compensation so long as your contribution was less than 50% of the total fault. Additionally, remember that insurance companies are corporations that exist to turn a profit, not to offer you generous settlement packages. This means you should not feel obligated to accept their settlement offer or agree to their terms. Knowing when and how to approach insurance adjusters is critical to obtaining full compensation.
Know Your Advocate
At Woodruff Johnson & Palermo, we believe in holding careless drivers responsible. We believe that you need an advocate who will fight for your right to recover. We also believe an insurance adjuster should not dictate your future financial security. If you suffer from an accident-related injury, contact our Oswego auto accident lawyers today to protect your rights. Knowing whom to contact will ensure that you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
