Car accidents happen every day on roads and highways across the Chicago area, often leaving victims with serious injuries, medical bills, and lasting stress. While not every crash can be avoided, understanding the most common causes of car accidents can help drivers stay alert and can also make it clear when another driver’s negligence may be to blame. If you’ve been injured in a collision, working with a skilled car accident lawyer is one of the best steps you can take to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of car accidents. From texting and checking emails to adjusting the GPS or eating behind the wheel, distractions pull a driver’s attention away from the road. Just a few seconds of inattention can lead to a devastating crash. If another driver caused your accident because they were distracted, a personal injury attorney can investigate phone records, witness statements, and other evidence to prove negligence.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the force of impact in a collision. Speeding drivers not only endanger themselves but also everyone around them. Proving that the other driver was going too fast can be critical in building your case. An experienced car accident lawyer can obtain accident reconstruction reports, surveillance footage, and police documentation to strengthen your claim.
Drunk or Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another major cause of serious and often fatal accidents. Impaired drivers have reduced judgment, slower reaction times, and poor coordination. If you’re the victim of a DUI-related crash, a personal injury attorney can help hold the impaired driver accountable while pursuing compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other damages.
Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, ignoring traffic signals, and road rage behaviors are all forms of reckless driving that commonly cause accidents. These dangerous choices put everyone at risk. A car accident lawyer can use traffic camera footage, witness testimony, and police reports to show that reckless driving directly led to your injuries.
Weather and Road Conditions
Rain, snow, ice, and poorly maintained roads can all contribute to car accidents. While drivers can’t control the weather, they are expected to adjust their driving accordingly. If a driver fails to slow down or take proper precautions in hazardous conditions, they may still be held responsible for the crash. A personal injury attorney can help determine liability and pursue a claim, even when environmental factors are involved.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
After an accident, it can feel overwhelming to deal with insurance companies, medical expenses, and missed work. That’s where a knowledgeable car accident lawyer comes in. Your attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence.
- Handle communications with insurance companies.
- Calculate the full value of your damages.
- Negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to court if necessary.
Knowing the causes of car accidents is important, but if you’ve already been injured in a crash, the most important step is protecting your legal rights. An experienced personal injury attorney will fight for the compensation you deserve and guide you through every step of the recovery process.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an auto accident, the experienced attorneys at The Law Offices of Parente & Norem are here to help. Call or text us today at 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website. Your path to justice begins with us.