After a car accident, you may wonder if hiring an attorney is necessary or if you can handle the insurance claim on your own. While minor accidents with no injuries may not require legal help, many situations benefit from having a personal injury attorney on your side. Insurance companies aim to minimize payouts, and without legal representation, you may not receive the full compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in an accident in Northbrook, IL, or the North Suburbs, it takes an experienced injury attorney to protect your rights and obtain a just recovery.
When You Might Need an Attorney
Not every car accident requires a lawyer, but in certain situations, having legal representation can make a significant difference.
Severe Injuries or Long-Term Impact
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries, medical bills can pile up quickly. Long-term or permanent injuries may require ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or impact your ability to work. An attorney ensures that compensation accounts for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering rather than just immediate costs.
Disputed Liability
If the other driver or their insurance company disputes fault, proving your case can be challenging. Insurance companies often try to shift blame or downplay their policyholder’s responsibility. A personal injury attorney gathers evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstruction, to support your claim.
The Insurance Company Offers a Low Settlement
Insurance adjusters often make quick settlement offers that may not cover all expenses. Without legal representation, it can be challenging to know if an offer is fair. Accepting a low payout can leave you covering costs out of pocket. A personal injury lawyer negotiates a settlement that reflects the full impact of the accident.
Accidents Involving Multiple Vehicles
Multi-car accidents can make determining liability more complex. When several insurance companies are involved, each may try to reduce its financial responsibility. Having legal representation helps protect your claim from being undervalued or wrongfully denied.
A Loved One Was Killed in the Accident
If a family member lost their life in a car accident, a wrongful death claim may be necessary to recover compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering. A personal injury attorney helps guide families through this process with care and dedication.
What an Attorney Can Do for Your Case
Hiring an attorney provides several advantages when dealing with an accident claim:
- Handling Communication – Attorneys manage conversations with insurance companies, preventing adjusters from using your words against you.
- Collecting Evidence – Strong cases rely on medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert analysis.
- Negotiating a Fair Settlement – Lawyers push back against low offers and advocate for full and fair compensation.
- Filing a Lawsuit if Needed – If negotiations fail, a lawyer prepares your case for court and represents you at trial if necessary.
Call a Northbrook Car Accident Attorney Today
If you were involved in an accident in Northbrook, IL, or anywhere in the North Suburbs, having informed representation is a wise choice. Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation could be reduced if you are found partially at fault. Insurance companies may use this to lower your payout, but a skilled attorney will fight to ensure fault is assigned fairly.
Trust Stein & Shulman to fight for the compensation you deserve. If you were injured in a crash, our team is ready to review your case and explain your options. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help.