Rear-end accidents are one of the most common types of accidents on the road. In 2015, for instance, there were 90,955 rear-end accidents throughout the state of Illinois alone. These accidents often occur when a driver stops short to avoid an obstacle or is simply not paying attention.
Regardless of the specific nature of a crash, the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, especially without a dedicated car accident attorney’s assistance. In addition to dealing with damage to your car and yourself, you may have to work with aggressive or unresponsive insurance companies. Fortunately, a Cicero rear-end car accident lawyer could help you by aggressively pursuing compensation from insurance companies and negligent drivers.
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
The leading cause of rear-end accidents is when one driver is following another driver too closely. When a driver does this, they generally do not give themselves enough time to slow their vehicle or safely change lanes in the event they need to suddenly slow down or stop.
Not only is this behavior an unsafe driving practice, it is also against the law. Specifically, 625 ILCS 5/11-710(a) provides that “[t]he driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicles and the traffic upon and the condition of the highway.”
In addition to following too closely, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association reports that many rear-end accident can be attributed to distracted drivers, unexpected lane changes, and driving at an excessive speed. However, a rear-end car accident lawyer in Cicero could help you with your case regardless of what caused your incident to occur.
Why Pursue a Rear-End Accident Lawsuit?
Following a rear-end accident, many people are left with significant injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, and sprains and strains. They are often left wondering how they will manage their medical expenses, as well as the costs of repairing any property damage that the crash resulted in.
While insurance may pay for some of these expenses, many people find that either their insurance or the other person’s insurance company will not fully pay for all of their expenses. Filing a rear-end accident lawsuit may help individuals recover some or all of these expenses including current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation expenses, pain and suffering, as well as for damage to a vehicle.
Know When to Contact a Rear-End Accident Lawyer
After an accident, it is important to consider all possible legal options and contact a lawyer as soon as possible. This is because there is a time limit on filing personal injury lawsuits.
Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, a person has two years from the date of their accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for damages resulting from that incident. If that person files their personal injury lawsuit after this time period expires, their lawsuit will likely be dismissed by the court.
While this may sound like a lot of time to consider filing a lawsuit, it is important to note that proving a car accident lawsuit often requires engaging in an extensive investigation to prove that the other driver was negligent and therefore should be held liable for an accident. As such, time is typically of the essence in all such cases.
Let a Cicero Rear End Car Accident Attorney Help
If you or a loved one suffered an injury as a result of a rear-end auto accident, you should be able to be confident that your case is in capable hands. A Cicero rear-end accident lawyer could help you pursue full compensation for your losses and seek the best possible resolution to your case. Call today to start discussing your options and rights.
