Chicago Car Accident Attorneys

Car Crash & Motor Vehicle Attorneys

Skilled Car Accident, Injury, and Fatality Attorneys in Chicago, Illinois

Our Chicago car accident and injury attorneys know all too well that the insurance industry in the U.S. spends millions of dollars on marketing and collects more than $1 trillion in premiums annually. Despite their promises to protect consumers, and the amount of money they make, many car insurance companies delay and deny claims without cause.

With over 100,000 traffic crashes each year in Chicago and countless accidents caused by a range of unsafe driving behaviors leading to various injuries, having a capable legal team is crucial. At Wallace Miller, we are ready to take the lead in your case, providing the support and guidance you need.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a moving vehicle in Illinois, you may be eligible to file a claim against the party that caused you harm. Car accident claims can provide financial compensation for your injuries and resulting expenses.

As a plaintiff’s law firm, our job is to champion human values over corporate values imposed by insurance companies. In more than 90 percent of our car crash cases, we are not trying to recover money directly from the other driver. Instead, we’re trying to reach a settlement or verdict with that individual’s insurance carrier.

Our legal team is committed to helping individuals achieve the best possible settlements and recover compensation and verdicts in car accident claims and lawsuits. We will investigate the situation to determine who was at fault and obtain the evidence you need to prove that you deserve compensation for your injuries. We will fight tirelessly for you to achieve the best possible outcome.

You’re more than a case number or an insurance claim. You’re a person, with a life, a family, passions, and hobbies. When an injury interferes with your ability to enjoy those things, the law gives you the right to be made whole. That means your claim is generally worth more than the sum of your medical bills and lost wages—it can include compensation for the personal toll the injury has taken on you, your quality of life, and your relationships.

To learn more about your legal options, contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online.

What are the most common types of car accidents in Chicago, Illinois?

Unfortunately, while no one gets into or on a motorized vehicle and thinks about being involved in a crash, they are all too common in Illinois and nationwide. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries if you were involved as a driver, a passenger, a pedestrian, or while riding a scooter or a bicyclist.

The latest statistics available nationwide reported over a single year:

5,930,496 police-reported motor vehicle crashes.
38 million motor vehicle crashes involving injuries.
42,514 motor vehicle crashes involving fatalities.

The most recent statistics available in Illinois reported over a single year:

298,347 crashes involving motor vehicles.
59,795 motor vehicle crashes involving injuries.
1,147 motor vehicle crashes involving fatalities.

Understanding the causes of car accidents can help you better protect yourself on the road. Accidents are most commonly caused by human error. This means that many crashes are preventable with better decision-making and safer behaviors.

Here are some of the most common human errors that lead to accidents:

Drunk driving/driving under the influence.
Speeding.
Distracted driving.
Tailgating.
Failure to yield.
Reckless driving, such as weaving in and out of traffic, running a red light, or changing lanes without checking blind spots.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a traffic crash in Chicago, contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online to learn more about your legal options.

What are the most common injuries that occur in Chicago car accidents?

Car accidents in Chicago and nationwide can lead to many injuries, from minor scrapes to life-altering conditions.

Common injuries include:

Whiplash: A typical result of rear-end collisions.
Broken bones: Particularly in the arms, wrists, legs, ankles, or ribs.
Head injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can have long-term consequences.
Spinal cord injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.

Vehicle accidents can also cause less direct injuries. People involved in severe injuries from car accidents may suffer a heart attack due to the stress of the situation. Many individuals involved in relatively minor injuries in severe accidents develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you’ve suffered any of these injuries, seeking legal help from a car accident lawyer in Chicago should be your first step. Contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online to learn more about your legal options.

What should I do after a car accident in Chicago, Illinois?

Regardless of the extent of your injuries, an accident scene is always a stressful situation. It’s essential to be prepared so that you can assess the circumstances and gather the evidence you need for a successful personal injury claim.

First and foremost, assess the safety of the crash scene and your well-being. Check yourself for any injuries. If you have been hurt, immediately call 911 for medical assistance or ask someone else to do so.
Check on any passengers and others at the scene. If moving your vehicle off the road is safe, do so. Even if you believe you have not been injured, move carefully and take care of yourself as you may have suffered harm, such as a spinal injury or brain damage, that is not immediately evident. As soon as possible, speak with a medical professional.
If you haven’t already done so, call 911 and talk to the police. They will send responding officers to the scene to file a police report (or you can file one yourself at a police station). The police report is essential to gathering evidence for a future car accident claim, and many insurance companies require the report for their claims process.
Gather evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the vehicles involved, the license plates, any vehicle damage, and the position of the cars where the accident happened. Get the other driver’s contact information, including their name, insurance policy number, and driver’s license number. If others witnessed the accident, you may want to speak with them to corroborate your story.
Contact a Chicago auto accident attorney to discuss your insurance claim options. The right personal injury attorney will be able to walk you through the claims process and achieve the best possible settlement so that you can focus on recovering.

Motor Vehicle Accident

Who can be held liable for car accidents, injuries, and fatalities in Chicago, Illinois?

Car accidents happen every day in Chicago, throughout Illinois, and nationwide. With so many cars on the road, heavy traffic, construction, and bad weather, crashes can occur in a split second. When accidents happen, they often leave people dealing with serious injuries, emotional pain, and unexpected costs.

While some accidents are caused by circumstances outside anyone’s control, others are due to drivers’ mistakes or carelessness. Finding out who was responsible for a car crash is key to getting the help and compensation victims need.

They may include:

Drivers

Negligent drivers: A driver who is distracted, speeding, under the influence, or driving recklessly can be held accountable.
Multiple drivers: In multi-vehicle accidents, liability may be shared among several drivers based on their degree of fault.

Vehicle owners

If a vehicle owner allows someone unfit to drive, including an unlicensed or intoxicated person, to operate their car, they may share liability.
Employers may also be liable if their employee causes an accident while driving a company vehicle.

Manufacturers

Defective auto parts, such as faulty brakes, airbags, or tires, can lead to accidents. In such cases, the vehicle or part manufacturer may be held responsible under product liability laws.

Government entities

Poorly maintained roads, faulty traffic signals, or inadequate signage can contribute to accidents. In these cases, a government agency responsible for road maintenance may be liable, although these claims often involve additional legal hurdles.

Commercial entities

Trucking companies: If a truck driver causes an accident, the trucking company may also bear responsibility for improper training, overworking drivers, or neglecting vehicle maintenance.
Rideshare companies: In accidents involving rideshare vehicles, companies like Uber or Lyft may share liability depending on the driver’s status during the crash.

Pedestrians or Cyclists

In rare cases, pedestrians or cyclists who act recklessly, such as crossing streets illegally or ignoring traffic signals, can be held partially responsible for accidents.

Determining liability in a car accident can be difficult. An experienced car accident attorney in Chicago can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and hold the appropriate parties accountable. If you or a loved one has been injured, consider consulting with our car accident and injury lawyers at Wallace Miller to explore your legal options.

The insurance company contacted me and wants to settle: what should I do?

If you are involved in an accident, it is crucial that you do not speak with any insurance agencies about your injuries and potential liability for the crash until you have hired a lawyer.

Because insurance companies are invested in paying clients as little as possible, any statements not made in consultation with an auto accident attorney in Chicago can seriously affect your ability to receive fair compensation for your claim.

While it may seem like a quick resolution, their initial offer is often lower than you may be entitled to.

Here are the steps you should take instead:

Do not accept the first offer

Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for the least amount possible. Their initial offer might not fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, or other damages. Accepting it could mean leaving money on the table.

Avoid giving a recorded statement

Insurance adjusters may ask for a recorded statement to use against you later. Politely decline until you’ve spoken with an attorney. Anything you say could be misinterpreted to minimize your claim.

Review the offer with an attorney

Before agreeing to any settlement, consult a car accident attorney. An experienced lawyer can evaluate whether the offer fairly compensates you for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Understand the full scope of your damages

In addition to immediate costs like medical bills, you may have long-term expenses, such as ongoing treatment, lost future income, or lasting pain and emotional distress. A lawyer can help calculate the full value of your claim.

Let your lawyer handle negotiations

Once you hire an attorney, they will deal directly with the insurance company on your behalf. This ensures your rights are protected and increases the likelihood of a fair settlement.

Be prepared to go to court

If the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, your attorney can take the case to court. We at Wallace Miller are prepared to fight for your best interests through negotiation or litigation.

No matter where your vehicle collision occurred, the insurance company aims to pay as little as possible. At Wallace Miller, our car accident lawyers in Chicago have the experience to stand up to these tactics. We may be able to help you secure the compensation you deserve, not just what the insurer wants to offer. Contact us for a free consultation before making any decisions about your settlement.

Can the Chicago car accident and injury attorneys at Wallace Miller Help if I was injured or lost a loved one in a crash outside of Illinois?

Our experienced legal team practices nationwide, offering dedicated support to clients no matter where the accident occurred. We understand that car accidents can happen anywhere, and the challenges you face afterward—medical bills, lost income, and emotional pain—don’t stop at state lines.

With a deep understanding of the laws in different states, our attorneys are equipped to handle your case, ensuring you get the guidance and representation you need. Whether the crash happened in Illinois or elsewhere, Wallace Miller is committed to fighting for your rights and helping you seek the compensation you deserve. to discuss your case and explore how we may be able to assist you during this difficult time.

Why should I hire a Chicago car accident lawyer?

State laws and the process of proving a car accident claim are complex, and trying to navigate the insurance system alone can lead to a denied claim or a settlement that falls far short of what you deserve. Wallace Miller’s car accident lawyers are committed to securing the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact us today if you have suffered harm from a vehicle accident. Our law firm can be reached at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online, which will allow us to assess your case in minutes.

How can the Chicago car accident attorneys at Wallace Miller help with my case?

If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries or even death due to an accident, selecting the right car accident lawyer to fight for your case is important. The experienced auto accident lawyers at Wallace Miller have over 75 years of cumulative experience representing plaintiffs against insurance companies and other parties.

Throughout a personal injury lawsuit like a vehicle accident, your attorney will:

Investigate the case & collect evidence

Your Wallace Miller car crash attorney and accident attorneys will gather information about your vehicle or car accident case, including police reports and medical records. They will investigate the circumstances of the crash to find the best evidence to prove that you are owed a fair settlement for your injuries.

Help you understand (and advocate for) your rights

Your car accident lawyer is experienced in state and federal law related to motor vehicle and car accident cases. They are experienced Chicago car accident attorneys who will help you navigate your legal rights and the complicated policies of insurance companies.

Offer legal advice

Hire an experienced car accident lawyer. They will provide insight and advice about filing your car accident lawsuit, proving the liability of the party at fault, and navigating the settlement process.

Negotiate your settlement

Most car and motor vehicle accident cases are settled out of court. If the driver’s insurance company or party at fault proposes a settlement, your vehicle or car accident lawyer will help negotiate the amount to compensate you for significant injuries and medical expenses.

Represent you in court

In some cases, insurance companies refuse to admit fault and opt to take car accident lawsuits to court. If this occurs, your vehicle or car accident lawyers will represent you in court and fight for an equitable settlement.

To learn more about your legal options, contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online.

Chicago Accident Law

How do I know if my Chicago car accident claim is eligible for compensation?

You may be eligible for compensation if you or a loved one was a driver or passenger in a car accident.

Cases generally require the following criteria:

You or a loved one was injured as a result of the accident.
You or a loved one received medical treatment for your injury, including hospitalization or a visit to an emergency room or urgent care. Cases that involve deceased car accident victims are often eligible for settlements even if medical treatment was not received.
The car accident was caused by the other driver or another party on the road. If a road hazard caused the accident, you may not be eligible to file a personal injury claim.
The accident occurred within the statute of limitations for your state.

What is the statute of limitations for Illinois car accident claims?

If you want to file a lawsuit or hire a lawyer for injuries caused by a motor vehicle accident, you must follow a strict timeframe. For example, in Illinois, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is generally two years from the accident date, as outlined in the

The statutes of limitations in each state differ, but typically allow one to five years to file a case.

To pursue compensation, you must file your car accident claim within that specific number of years. For example, if the particular laws in your state impose a two-year statutory period, you must initiate your lawsuit within two years of the accident date.

You will likely lose your right to pursue legal action and collect compensation from the at-fault party if the statute of limitations passes before you file.

What compensation can I receive after a Chicago car accident with injuries?

The settlement you receive from a liability claim could compensate you for a variety of accident-related losses, such as:

Emotional distress.
Out-of-pocket expenses.
Medical bills.
Disfigurement and scarring.
Lost wages.
Lost earning capacity.
Pain and suffering.
Loss of enjoyment of life.
Property damage.

In a lawsuit against the negligent party, you might also be able to recover punitive or exemplary damages if they are held liable for the accident. This compensation punishes the defendant for their misconduct and discourages future wrongdoing by liable parties.

Every state is different, but courts typically require clear and convincing evidence of the defendant’s actions or intent to grant this financial award.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a traffic crash in Chicago, contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online to learn more about your legal options.

Law in Chicago

Can I pursue a claim if my loved one was killed in a car accident in Chicago, Illinois?

Some motor vehicle accidents have heartbreaking consequences and result in the loss of a loved one. If your family member has passed away in a tragic crash, you may have the option to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. Keep in mind that the laws governing who can file such a claim vary from state to state.

Some states allow a surviving family member, such as a spouse or child, to initiate a lawsuit. Others only allow the personal representative or executor of the deceased’s estate to file.

The type of compensation you receive depends on the laws where you live, but it could compensate you for various losses, such as:

The deceased’s final medical bills.
Loss of consortium or companionship that the deceased can no longer provide to a surviving spouse.
Lost wages and benefits the deceased could have earned and left to the surviving family if they had survived.
Funeral and burial expenses.
Loss of instruction, guidance, love, and care for surviving children.
Pain and suffering endured by the deceased between the date of their injury and their death.
Mental anguish experienced by the surviving family.

State laws on wrongful death cases vary widely from state to state. Some don’t allow the recovery of funeral expenses or medical bills. In contrast, others require a personal representative of the deceased individual’s estate to file a lawsuit rather than a surviving spouse, child, or parent. Wallace Miller can help determine the relevant laws in your state to ensure we seek the maximum compensation possible.

Our Personal Injury Lawyers Also Focus on the Following Areas:

How much does it cost to hire a car accident and injury lawyer in Chicago, Illinois?

It may surprise you to learn that Wallace Miller handles all car accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. We also offer a free consultation to help you understand your legal options—there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs to get started.

At Wallace Miller, our legal team understands how devastating it can be to suffer injury in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. We are ready to fight for the best possible car accident settlement so that you can focus on financial recovery and healing.

We know many choices are available when looking for an auto accident lawyer to represent you. Our commitment to our clients and outstanding success track record sets us apart from other personal injury attorney firms. We only take on the personal injury cases our firm has faith in—those that can make a difference in our clients’ lives.

Our car accident and personal injury lawyers represent individuals and families in Chicago, throughout Illinois, and nationwide. We will protect your rights during every step of your case and fight by your side for justice. You can count on us to remain in your corner and provide the legal guidance and representation you need.

If you or a loved one has sustained serious car accident injuries or injuries caused by a moving vehicle, contact Wallace Miller at 331-425-8022 or start your free case evaluation online.

Team at Wallace Miller

Left to right: Nicholas P. Kelly, Edward A. Wallace, Molly Condon Wells, Mark R. Miller, Jessica Wieczorkiewicz, Timothy E. Jackson.

Car Accident Attorneys in Chicago