Auto Accidents

Every year, the Law Offices of John M. Borcia successfully represents victims of automobile accidents throughout the State of Illinois.

Immediately after being injured in an auto accident, you are thrown into an adversarial legal system that is complex and confusing. While you are still receiving initial treatment for your injuries in a hospital emergency room, the parties at fault have already notified their insurance company of the accident. Every insurance company has in place, a team of adjustors, investigators and attorneys whose sole responsibility is to limit the liability of the insurance company and minimize the amount of money they will be required to pay "innocent" auto accident victims. You need the assistance of a qualified Personal Injury attorney to guide you through the system to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation allowable by law for your injuries.

There are many mistakes that can be made during the initial stages of a Personal Injury claim that cannot be undone by even the most experienced attorney. We believe that our firm can help "level the playing field" by providing auto accident victims with an accurate straight-forward source of information regarding the legal and practical aspects surrounding the auto compensation system.

The following information is intended to assist auto accident victims to protect and preserve their legal rights in the critical hours and days after an accident.

"RULES OF THE ROAD"

1. Stop your car, no matter how minor the accident.
2. Assist any injured persons. Call for an ambulance, if necessary.
3. Call and wait for the police.
4. Identify the other driver and get his/her address, telephone number and insurance information.
5. Get the names, addresses and telephone numbers from all witnesses.
6. Do not move the vehicles until the police view the scene unless it is safe to do so.
7. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, even if the vehicles have been moved. Pay particular attention to skid marks and damage to all vehicles involved.
8. Never admit to the police or anyone else on the scene that the accident was your fault. Anything you say can and will be used against you to defeat your claim for compensation.
9. You may not be aware of the extent of your injuries immediately after the accident. It is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
10. Inform your doctor that you were in an auto accident. Tell him about all your complaints no matter how minor, including past injuries to the same body parts that are presently injured.
11. Notify your insurance company about the accident. Even though you are required to cooperate with your insurance company, do not give them a statement (written or taped) without first contacting your attorney.
12. Never submit to any request for a statement by the other driver's insurance company. You are not legally obligated to give a statement. Such a statement could later be used against you. Simply refer them to your attorney. Remember: Insurance companies are big business. They do not have your best interests in mind. The adjuster's sole objective is to settle your claim for as little as possible.
13. As soon as possible after the auto accident, you should photograph any visible injuries (i.e. cuts, bruises, broken bones, etc.) Before repairing your car, photograph the damage from all angles. Provide your attorneys with the prints (and negatives) ofall photographs pertaining to your claim.
14. Consult with your attorney to determine who is responsible for payment of your medical bills. Your medical bills could be processed through the other driver's insurance company, your auto insurance policy or through your group health insurance. Be aware that some insurance policies require reimbursement of anymedical expenses upon settlement of your claim.
15. Keep accurate records of your lost time and wages from work as a result of your auto accident. This information will assist your attorney in determining the value of your claim.
16. Before you repair the damage to your car, contact your attorney. Generally, your insurance company will pay to have your car repaired or pay you the value of the vehicle if it is a total loss. If it is determined that you are not at fault for the accident, your insurance company will seek reimbursement for medical bills from the driver at fault. Your attorney will explain the best way to have your car replaced or your total loss adjusted.
    If you or any member of your family have been injured in an auto accident, you need to ensure that your legal rights are protected.

Please contact our office, anytime, by calling (847) 244-0690 for a free, no obligation, consultation.