Experienced Multi-Car Accident Attorney
Multi-car accidents can turn your life upside down in an instant. They create physical, emotional, and financial challenges that tend to feel overwhelming. The good news is that you're not alone after a multi-car collision.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., a Chicago multi-car accident lawyer is on standby, ready to help you with your auto accident claim. With a record of winning millions for our clients, we know how to pursue justice and fight for the compensation you need.
When you hire our legal team, we’ll take care of everything—from collecting evidence to dealing with insurance companies. Most importantly, there’s no fee unless you receive compensation, and you can reach out for a free consultation 24/7.
Why Choose Abels & Annes, P.C. for Your Multi-Car Accident Claim?
When it comes to personal injury cases, not all law firms are the same. At Abels & Annes, P.C., we pride ourselves on our track record and personalized care for every client.
Here’s what sets us apart in handling multi-car accident claims in Chicago:
1. Proven Results
Our team has achieved life-changing settlements and verdicts for injured clients, including cases involving severe car accidents. Notable examples include a $2,750,000 settlement for a client who suffered head injuries in a rear-end collision and a $3,000,000 settlement for a motorcycle accident. These outcomes demonstrate our ability to secure substantial compensation when negligence causes harm.
2. Award-Winning Lawyers
The attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. are recognized leaders in personal injury law. Some of our accolades include:
- being listed in the Top 100 Lawyer List by Super Lawyers
- Earning the 10.0 Superb personal injury lawyer rating from AVVO
- Being part of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
These awards reflect the experience and dedication we bring to each and every case.
3. Multilingual Services
We believe everyone deserves access to quality legal services. That’s why our team provides representation in:
- English
- Spanish
- Polish
No injury victim should face barriers when seeking justice, and we’re here to ensure your voice is heard.
3. Compassionate Legal Care
We understand how devastating a multi-car accident can be. From physical pain to missed work, the ripple effects touch every part of your life. At Abels & Annes, P.C., we treat you like family.
Your well-being is our top priority, and our legal team handles every case with care, urgency, and professionalism.
4. Availability and Focus
Accidents don’t wait for convenient hours, and neither do we. You can contact us anytime for a free consultation. Once we take your case, we’ll focus on securing maximum compensation while you focus on healing.
When you hire us, you’ll gain a dedicated Chicago multi-car accident lawyer backed by:
- Years of experience
- A passion for justice
- And the resources to handle complex cases
Understanding Your Rights After a Multi-Car Accident
After a multi-vehicle crash in Chicago, you need to know what steps to take next. Laws surrounding car accidents can be complicated, but knowing your legal rights is the first step.
1. The Right to Pursue Car Accident Compensation
After a multi-vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
However, proving fault in a crash involving several vehicles is challenging. That’s why hiring a skilled Chicago multi-vehicle accident lawyer is essential to building a strong claim.
2. Car Accident Evidence Is Key
The burden of proof falls on the injured person. Our team of car accident attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. will get to work immediately gathering the following evidence to support your case:
- Witness statements
- Expert testimony to clarify liability and negligence
- Photos of the crash site and vehicles involved
- Security camera or dash cam footage
- Police reports and accident reconstructions
Without prompt action, crucial evidence can disappear, and witnesses can become harder to locate. That’s why it’s vital to start the legal process as soon as possible.
3. Navigating Illinois Comparative Negligence Laws
Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that multiple parties could share responsibility for a crash. This makes legal representation even more important.
If you’re found to be partially at fault, any settlement or award you receive could be reduced accordingly. With our team on your side, we’ll fight to show that others bear the majority of the blame, so we can maximize your compensation as much as possible.
4. Protecting Your Case
Insurance companies may try to shift blame to minimize payouts, and they’ll often pressure accident victims into taking quick, lowball settlements.
Resist the urge to manage things on your own. Instead, contact an experienced car accident lawyer who can level the playing field and protect your rights.
Who May Be Eligible to Make a Multi-Vehicle Accident Claim in Chicago?
Multi-car crashes are chaotic, and determining who can file a claim often comes down to uncovering what caused the crash. Common scenarios include:
- Rear-end pileups
- Chain-reaction collisions
- And intersection accidents
Here’s who may be eligible to bring a claim under Illinois law:
Drivers Not at Fault
If another driver’s negligence caused the crash, injured drivers may file claims against the at-fault driver (or their insurance). Some examples of negligence include:
- Speeding
- Following too closely
- Distracted driving
- Or reckless behavior like running a red light
Passengers
Passengers in any vehicle involved have the legal right to seek compensation for their injuries, regardless of who caused the crash. Because passengers aren’t driving, they’re almost always considered faultless, making their claims more straightforward to pursue.
Pedestrians or Cyclists
Sometimes, multi-car accidents spill onto sidewalks or bike lanes, causing injuries to those who aren’t even in vehicles. If you were struck as a pedestrian or cyclist during a multi-car accident, you also have the right to pursue damages.
Families of Wrongful Death Victims
If a multiple-car crash results in the tragic loss of life, loved ones may file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and other damages.
While no monetary settlement can erase your grief, it can provide financial stability during a difficult time.
How Does Insurance Work After Multiple-Car Accidents?
After a multi-car accident, dealing with insurance can be a headache. The sheer number of parties involved often makes it unclear who will pay for damages and how much. Here’s an overview of how insurance plays a role and why having legal representation matters.
1. Determining Fault
Insurance adjusters will try to determine fault by reviewing evidence, police reports, and witness testimony. However, their goal isn’t necessarily fairness; it’s minimizing their payout.
With a dedicated car accident lawyer from Abels & Annes, P.C., you’ll have a professional on your side ensuring fault is assigned accurately.
2. Multiple Claims
Because multiple vehicles are involved in these accidents, multiple liability claims may be filed against one driver’s insurance. This can quickly exceed policy limits, leaving some victims without sufficient coverage for their damages.
Our car accident attorneys know how to uncover additional sources of compensation. For example, if road conditions or faulty vehicle maintenance contributed to the crash, other liable parties may exist.
3. Uninsured/Underinsured Drivers
Unfortunately, not all drivers carry adequate insurance. If an at-fault driver lacks coverage or doesn’t have enough to cover your injuries, we’ll explore your options under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy.
4. Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are known for offering settlements that are far below what your claim is worth. They rely on the confusion and stress of accident victims to push lowball offers.
Our team will handle all communication with insurers, fighting for the compensation you
deserve and ensuring you’re not taken advantage of during this vulnerable time.
Compensation Available to Chicago Multi-Car Accident Victims
Here are the key types of compensation victims may receive in multiple-car accident cases:
- Medical Expenses
Multi-vehicle accidents often result in serious injuries that require immediate and ongoing medical care. Compensation can cover costs for ambulance services, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and future healthcare needs. - Lost Income and Diminished Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover lost income. For more severe cases where you can no longer perform your job or need to take a lower-paying position, you may also receive compensation for diminished earning capacity. - Pain and Suffering
Beyond the physical injuries, there’s emotional trauma and suffering. Compensation for pain and suffering recognizes the mental anguish, anxiety, and reduced quality of life that accidents often cause. - Property Damage
Multi-car accidents can wreak havoc on your vehicle. You can recover repair costs or the value of your car if it was totaled, along with any damaged personal belongings inside the vehicle.
When you partner with a skilled Chicago Multi-Car Accident Lawyer, you’re giving yourself the best chance to recover the full amount you’re owed.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we’ll calculate the full scope of your losses and aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to secure your maximum compensation.
Chicago Multi-Car Accident Claim FAQs
1. How is fault determined in a multi-vehicle accident?
Fault in multi-car accidents is assessed by reviewing all the evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and crash reconstruction findings.
Illinois follows the comparative negligence rule, which means each party involved may be assigned a percentage of fault. A lawyer will help ensure the fault is properly attributed to those truly responsible.
2. What should I do immediately after a multi-car accident?
After ensuring your safety, call first responders to report the crash and get medical attention.
Collect as much evidence as you can at the scene, including photos of the vehicles and injuries, and get contact details from witnesses. Avoid giving statements to insurance companies until you’ve spoken to a lawyer.
3. Can I still make a claim if I’m partially at fault?
Yes, Illinois law allows you to recover damages as long as you’re less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your assigned percentage of fault. A skilled attorney can help ensure your fault is minimized in the claim.
4. How long do I have to file a claim after a multi-car accident?
Illinois has a short statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically two years from the date of the accident. However, waiting to partner with a skilled lawyer can make it harder to gather evidence and locate witnesses. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better.
Contact Our Chicago Multi-Car Accident Lawyers Today
At Abels & Annes, P.C., our experienced attorneys will handle every detail of your case so that you can focus on healing.
Here’s how we can help you:
- Investigate the accident and gather crucial evidence to build your case.
- Identify all liable parties and explore every available source of compensation.
- Deal with insurance companies to ensure they don’t take advantage of you with lowball offers.
- Represent you in court, if necessary, to fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you choose Abels & Annes, P.C., you’re choosing a team that truly cares. Call us for a free consultation today, and remember, there’s no legal fee unless you win.