Being involved in a car accident, especially when it’s not your fault, can feel overwhelming.

Taking the proper steps immediately is essential to protect your legal rights. Ensure everyone’s safety, call the police, and gather crucial information from the other driver and witnesses.

Document the scene, notify your insurance company, and seek medical attention. To fully understand your rights and explore your options for compensation, consulting Schierer & Ritchie, LLC can provide you with the guidance and support needed to handle the aftermath effectively. Reach out to us for expert assistance.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

After an accident, staying calm and gathering your thoughts is essential. Panicking can lead to mistakes or overlooking key details. Take a deep breath and try to clear your mind. Once settled, take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those involved.

Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries

Make sure everyone involved is safe, and check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention is wise—some symptoms may not appear until later.

• If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further accidents.
• Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• If you have them, set up road flares or warning triangles for extra visibility.

Call the Police

Even in minor accidents, it’s important to contact the police and file a report. This official document can be critical if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.

• Stick to the facts when talking to the police and avoid admitting fault.
• Describe what happened without speculating on who is to blame.

Gather Information

While waiting for the police to arrive, gather as much information as possible. This will help with insurance companies or if legal action becomes necessary.

• Get the other driver’s name, contact information, license number, and insurance details.
• Note the other vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number.
• Collect contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.

Take Photos and Videos

Visual documentation of the scene is beneficial. Capture clear pictures and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible damage.

• Take photos of road conditions, skid marks, and nearby traffic signs.
• Document the positioning of the vehicles and any visible injuries.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay, seeing a doctor after the accident is essential. Some injuries may not become apparent until hours or days later.

• Have a medical professional evaluate you for any hidden injuries.
• Ensure that all injuries are documented as they could be relevant for insurance or legal claims.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Even if you were not at fault, it’s important to notify them. When you do, keep these tips in mind:

• Provide factual information without admitting fault.
• Avoid speculating on what happened or who is responsible.
• Keep the conversation focused on the details of the accident.

Follow your insurer’s instructions for the next steps, such as:

• Arranging vehicle repairs.
• Securing a rental car if needed.
• Submitting any documentation they require, like medical records or repair estimates.

In addition to notifying your insurance company, seeking legal advice is also a good idea. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. Our experienced team will assist you in navigating insurance claims and pursuing fair compensation. Reach out to us for personalized legal guidance.

Keep Records of Everything

Documentation is vital after an accident. Keep copies of all relevant paperwork and communications.

• Save the police report, medical records, repair estimates, and any communication with the other driver’s insurance company.
• This paperwork may be vital for any delay or dispute regarding compensation.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Be mindful of what you say after the accident. Even a simple apology could be interpreted as an admission of guilt, affecting your claim.

• Focus on gathering information and letting the facts speak for themselves.
• Leave the determination of fault to the professionals.

Contact an Attorney

If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by another driver, it’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we can help ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Our attorneys can assist with:

• Navigating the claims process.
• Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
• Gathering and organizing the necessary evidence and documentation.

While specific outcomes are not guaranteed, working with an attorney can provide:

• Expert legal advice tailored to your situation.
• A clear understanding of your options for pursuing fair compensation.
• Guidance and advocacy to ensure your interests are represented.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC today to discuss your case and receive the support you need after an accident. We are here to help you through every step of the legal process.

Don’t Settle Too Quickly

After an accident, it may be tempting to accept the first settlement offer from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. While this can seem like a quick solution to medical bills and vehicle repairs, it’s essential to be cautious. Initial offers often fail to cover the full extent of your damages, medical expenses, or the potential long-term impact of your injuries.

Insurance companies may provide lower settlements, hoping you’ll settle before fully understanding the total costs of your recovery. Accepting a settlement too soon can leave you without enough compensation for ongoing medical treatment, lost wages, or future complications.

Before agreeing to any settlement, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we can:

• Accurately assess the actual value of your claim, including future medical needs and lost wages.
• Ensure that all damages, including pain and suffering, are accounted for.
• Negotiate with the insurance company to pursue a settlement that fully compensates you.

By consulting with us, you’ll better understand your case’s worth and avoid the risk of settling for less than you deserve. Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC today to review your case before settling so you can make informed decisions and protect your financial future. Let us help you get the compensation you need to move forward confidently.

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Taking the proper steps after an accident can significantly protect your legal rights and ensure you’re adequately compensated for any damages. While the aftermath of a car accident can be stressful, staying calm and following these guidelines can help you through the process. If you have questions or need assistance, Schierer & Ritchie, LLC is here to provide support and guidance.

Vehicle accidents continue to be a significant concern in Peoria and throughout the United States, affecting drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

Understanding the primary causes of accidents is essential to enhancing and reducing road safety. While numerous factors can lead to collisions, specific causes are more common.

By identifying and addressing these prevalent issues, we can work toward creating safer roads for everyone. Let’s explore the leading causes of vehicle accidents and their impact on road safety.

Distracted Driving: A Modern Epidemic

Distracted driving has emerged as one of the leading causes of vehicle accidents in recent years. With the proliferation of smartphones and in-car technology, drivers face more distractions than ever. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving claimed 3,142 lives in 2020 alone.

Distracted driving encompasses a wide range of activities, including:

• Texting or using a smartphone
• Eating or drinking
• Adjusting the radio or GPS
• Talking to passengers
• Grooming

Of these distractions, texting is particularly dangerous as it combines visual, manual, and cognitive distractions. Taking your eyes off the road for just five seconds while traveling at 55 mph is equivalent to driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

Speeding: A Persistent Danger

Excessive speed continues to be a major contributor to vehicle accidents. The NHTSA consistently ranks speeding as one of the top causes of fatal crashes. In 2020, speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities.

Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to:

• Steer safely around curves or objects in the road
• Stop the vehicle in time to avoid a collision
• React to changes in traffic or road conditions

Moreover, speeding increases the severity of crashes when they do occur, leading to more severe injuries and a higher likelihood of fatalities.

Impaired Driving: Alcohol and Drugs

Despite decades of public awareness campaigns and stricter laws, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains a significant cause of vehicle accidents. The NHTSA reports that in 2020, an estimated 11,654 fatalities occurred in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.

Impaired driving affects:

• Judgment
• Reaction time
• Coordination
• Visual function

It’s important to note that impairment isn’t limited to illegal drugs or alcohol. Prescription medications and even over-the-counter drugs can impair driving ability.

Fatigue: The Silent Danger

Driver fatigue, while often overlooked, is a serious cause of vehicle accidents. The National Sleep Foundation reports that about half of U.S. adult drivers admit to consistently getting behind the wheel while feeling drowsy.

Fatigue can lead to:

• Slower reaction times
• Decreased awareness of surroundings
• Poor decision-making
• Falling asleep at the wheel

Long-haul truck drivers, shift workers, and people with untreated sleep disorders are particularly at risk for fatigue-related accidents.

Aggressive Driving and Road Rage

Aggressive driving behaviors, which can escalate to road rage, contribute to a significant number of accidents. These behaviors include:

• Tailgating
• Excessive lane changing
• Running red lights
• Failing to yield the right of way

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that nearly 80% of drivers expressed significant anger, aggression, or road rage at least once in the previous 30 days while behind the wheel.

Weather Conditions

While not a direct cause, adverse weather conditions can significantly increase the risk of accidents. Rain, snow, ice, and fog can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, weather-related vehicle crashes kill over 6,000 people and injure more than 445,000 each year.

The Complexity of Accident Causes and the Importance of Safe Driving

While these represent some of the leading causes of vehicle accidents, it’s important to remember that many accidents result from a combination of factors. For instance, a driver might be speeding in rainy conditions while distracted by a text message.

Understanding these common causes can help drivers make more informed decisions and potentially reduce their risk of accidents. However, even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in unexpected situations on the road.

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If you’ve been involved in a vehicle accident in the Peoria area, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can provide valuable guidance in navigating the aftermath of an accident, especially if you’ve suffered injuries or significant property damage.

If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know how stressful and overwhelming the aftermath can be.

One of the first questions that often comes to mind is, “Will my insurance cover this?” For many drivers, collision insurance is crucial in providing financial protection after an accident. In this article, we’ll explore what collision insurance typically covers and why it’s an essential consideration for drivers in Peoria and beyond.

What is Collision Insurance?

Collision insurance is auto insurance coverage that helps pay for damage to your vehicle resulting from a collision with another car or object. Unlike liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to others, collision insurance focuses on protecting your vehicle.

What Does Collision Insurance Typically Cover?

Collision insurance generally covers damage to your vehicle in the following scenarios:

Collisions with other vehicles

Whether you’re at fault or not, collision insurance can help cover the costs of repairing your vehicle after a crash with another car.

Single-car accidents

If you lose control of your vehicle and hit a stationary object like a tree, pole, or guardrail, collision insurance can typically help cover the damage.

Potholes

Damage caused by driving over a pothole is usually covered under collision insurance.

Rollovers

Collision insurance often covers the damage if your vehicle rolls over.

It’s important to note that collision insurance typically covers the cost of repairs up to the actual cash value of your vehicle. If your car is deemed a total loss, the insurance company may pay out the vehicle’s actual cash value minus your deductible.

What’s Not Covered by Collision Insurance?

While collision insurance provides valuable protection, it only covers some things. Here are some situations that are typically not covered:

• Damage to another person’s vehicle or property: This is usually covered by your liability insurance.
• Medical expenses: Injuries to you or your passengers are typically covered by personal injury protection or medical payments coverage, not collision insurance.
• Theft or vandalism: These incidents fall under comprehensive coverage, not collision.
• Damage from natural disasters: Comprehensive insurance covers events like floods, hail, or falling trees.
• Mechanical failures: Collision insurance does not cover regular wear and tear or mechanical breakdowns.

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to carry collision insurance, consider the following:

• The value of your vehicle: If your car is older or has a low market value, the cost of collision coverage might outweigh the potential benefit.
• Your deductible: Collision insurance comes with a deductible. Choose an amount you can comfortably afford in the event of an accident.
• Your driving habits: If you frequently drive in high-traffic areas or have a history of accidents, collision coverage might be more valuable to you.
• Your financial situation: Could you afford to repair or replace your vehicle out of pocket if it were severely damaged in an accident?

The Importance of Understanding Your Coverage

While collision insurance can provide significant financial protection, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of your policy. Insurance policies can vary, and specific exclusions or limitations may apply. Reading your policy carefully and discussing any questions with your insurance provider can help ensure you have the coverage you expect when you need it most.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria and have questions about your insurance coverage or legal rights, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney may be helpful. They can guide you in navigating the claims process and help ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.

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Remember, being informed about your insurance coverage before an accident can save you significant stress and financial strain in the long run. Take the time to review your policy and make sure you have the protection that’s right for you and your vehicle.

What does liability insurance not cover after a car accident in Peoria, IL? Contact us today for a free consultation.

If you’re driving in Peoria, Illinois, it’s essential to know the limitations of your auto liability insurance. Many drivers are unaware of the gaps in coverage, which could leave them financially exposed after an accident.

Contact Schierer and Ritchie LLC today for a comprehensive review of your auto insurance and legal options.

What Liability Insurance Covers:

• Bodily injury to others
• Damage to other vehicles or property

Illinois minimum coverage requirements are:

• $25,000 for one person’s injury or death
• $50,000 for multiple people’s injury or death
• $20,000 for property damage

However, these minimums may not be sufficient in many accident scenarios, and liability insurance falls short in several situations.

What Liability Insurance Doesn’t Cover:

• Your Injuries: Liability insurance protects others from damages you cause. Regardless of who is at fault, it does not cover your injuries in an accident. To cover your medical expenses, you would need:
  • Health insurance
  • Medical payments coverage (Med Pay)
  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
• Damage to Your Vehicle: If your car is damaged in an accident you caused, liability insurance won’t cover the repairs. For protection against damage to your vehicle, you need:
  • Collision coverage
  • Comprehensive coverage
• Theft of Your Vehicle: Liability insurance does not protect against theft. If your car is stolen, you need comprehensive coverage for reimbursement.
• Natural Disasters: Damage to your vehicle from natural disasters like floods, hurricanes, or falling trees is not covered by liability insurance. Again, comprehensive coverage would be necessary for this type of protection.
• Personal Items in Your Vehicle: If personal belongings in your car are damaged or stolen, liability insurance doesn’t cover their replacement. You might be able to claim these under your homeowners or renters insurance, but auto liability insurance won’t help.
• Legal Fees in Criminal Cases: If you’re facing criminal charges related to an accident (like DUI), liability insurance typically won’t cover your legal defense costs.
• Intentional Damage: If you intentionally cause damage to your vehicle, liability insurance won’t cover it. Insurance is designed for accidents, not deliberate acts.
• Racing/Speed Contests: Accidents during speed contests or organized races are typically excluded from liability coverage.
• Exceeding Policy Limits: If the damages you cause exceed your liability limits, you’re personally responsible for the remainder. This is why many experts recommend carrying more than the minimum required coverage.

Why These Gaps Matter

If you’re involved in an accident and find your insurance doesn’t cover all the damages, you might face:

• Liens on your property
• Bankruptcy in extreme cases
• Personal lawsuits
• Wage garnishment

Umbrella Policies

Given these limitations, many Peoria residents opt for umbrella insurance policies. These provide additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your auto policy, offering an extra layer of protection against lawsuits and major accidents.

How Schierer and Ritchie LLC Can Help

Navigating the complexities of auto insurance and accident liability can be challenging. If you’ve been involved in an accident in Peoria and are facing issues with insurance coverage, we can help:

• Evaluate your insurance coverage and identify potential gaps
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Represent you in lawsuits related to underinsured accidents
• Advise on the best ways to protect yourself financially and legally

Don’t wait until after an accident to understand your insurance coverage. Contact Schierer and Ritchie LLC today for a comprehensive review of your auto insurance and legal options. Our experienced Peoria-based attorneys are here to ensure you’re adequately protected on Illinois roads.

Is Illinois a no-fault state in auto accidents? Contact Schierer and Ritchie LLC for a free consultation.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Illinois, understanding the state’s fault system is crucial for navigating your legal rights and options. At Schierer and Ritchie LLC, we’re here to provide you with clear, comprehensive information about Illinois auto accident laws and how they may affect your case.

Our experienced attorneys are ready to guide you through every step of your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Illinois Is Not a No-Fault State

The short answer is no. Illinois is not a no-fault state for auto accidents. Instead, Illinois follows a “fault” or “at-fault” system. This distinction significantly affects how car accident claims are handled in the state.

Understanding Fault vs. No-Fault Systems

To better understand Illinois’s approach, let’s compare fault and no-fault systems:

• Fault System:
  • The driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages.
  • Victims can sue the at-fault driver for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
  • Insurance claims are typically filed with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
• No-Fault System:
  • Each driver’s insurance covers their medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident.
  • There are restrictions on the right to sue for additional damages.
  • This system is designed to reduce litigation and speed up the claims process.

How the Fault System Works in Illinois

In Illinois, the fault system operates as follows:

• Determining Fault: The fault must be established after an accident. This can be done through police reports, witness statements, and other evidence.
• Insurance Claims: The person who is not at fault (or less at fault) can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
• Compensation: The at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for compensating the victim for damages, which may include:
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Other related costs
• Right to Sue: If the insurance settlement is insufficient, the victim can sue the at-fault driver for additional compensation.

Modified Comparative Negligence in Illinois

Illinois follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, which can affect your ability to recover damages:

• You can recover damages if you’re less than 51% at fault for the accident.
• Your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault you have.
• You cannot recover any damages if you’re found to be 51% or more at fault.

For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 30% at fault, your award would be reduced to $70,000.

Minimum Insurance Requirements in Illinois

To operate within this fault-based system, Illinois requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person in an accident
• $50,000 for injury or death of more than one person in an accident
• $20,000 for damage to property of another person

It’s often recommended to carry more than the minimum to ensure adequate coverage in case of a severe accident.

Statute of Limitations

In Illinois, there’s a time limit for filing a lawsuit after a car accident:

• Personal injury claims: 2 years from the date of the accident
• Property damage claims: 5 years from the date of the accident

Missing these deadlines can result in losing your right to sue, so acting promptly is crucial.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating the fault-based system in Illinois can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies and potentially conflicting accounts of the accident. An experienced auto accident attorney can:

• Help establish fault and gather evidence
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
• Ensure you meet all legal deadlines
• Represent you in court if a lawsuit becomes necessary
• Help you understand your rights and options throughout the process

What Can I Expect the Police Officer to Do at the Accident Scene? Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC for a free consultation.

If you get into a car accident, one of the first things you should do is contact the police, especially if there are injuries. The officer will ensure everyone is safe, assess the accident scene, and document their findings in an official police report.

Call us at (309) 250-1871 for a free and confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and secure the compensation you deserve.

Benefits of Notifying the Police

You should always contact the police after an accident, even if you believe you may have been at fault. Here’s why:

• Calm and Rational Assessment: Police officers will arrive at the accident scene calmly and rationally and provide an objective assessment.
• Official Documentation: The police report will be indispensable if you must make an insurance claim or participate in a personal injury lawsuit.
• Traffic Management: Officers will divert traffic and facilitate cleanup to ensure the road is safe for others.
• Assistance and Support: The police are there to help everyone involved in the accident, including you.

An Officer’s Duties at the Accident Scene

The police officer will perform several key tasks upon arrival at the scene:

• Speak to Involved Parties and Witnesses: The officer will interview all involved parties and witnesses to the accident to obtain statements about what happened. They will also collect each person’s contact information. It’s essential to answer the officer’s questions truthfully and stick to the facts, as everything you say could end up in the police report.
• Take Photos: In some cases, the police officer will take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, their license plates, and any road signage in the area. Even if the officer takes pictures, it’s a good idea for you to do so. This evidence could be invaluable in the case of an insurance dispute or personal injury lawsuit.
• Conduct Field Sobriety Tests: If the officer has any reason to believe that one or more parties were under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, they may conduct field sobriety tests or transport the driver to a medical facility for a blood test. If it’s determined that the driver is under the influence, they will be arrested.
• Issue Traffic Citations: The police officer may issue a citation to a driver if they determine that the driver violated a traffic law, such as running a stop sign or speeding. The driver may even have to appear in traffic court. If a lawsuit follows, the existence of a traffic citation can help to prove negligence.
• Write the Police Report: After examining the accident scene and interviewing involved parties and witnesses, the officer will write an official police report. This report typically includes:
  • Time, date, and location of the accident
  • Names of the people involved, along with their contact and insurance information
  • Names and contact information of any witnesses
  • Statements from involved parties and witnesses
  • Conditions at the accident scene, including weather, lighting, and road conditions
  • Any traffic citations issued or violations observed
  • A diagram of the accident
  • Descriptions of vehicle damage and injuries
  • An opinion on what may have caused the collision and who was at fault

When speaking to the police officer, get their name, badge number, and report number, if possible. This will make it easier to obtain a copy of the police report when it’s available.

What to Do If You’re in an Accident

Car accidents are stressful for everyone involved, but understanding what police officers do at the accident scene can help you navigate the aftermath more calmly. Here are some steps to take:

• Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location and check for injuries.
• Call the Police: Notify them immediately to report the accident.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and gather witness information.
• Exchange Information: Share contact and insurance details with the other driver(s).
• Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, even if you feel fine.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC

If you have been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, contact the law offices of Schierer & Ritchie LLC. Our experienced car accident attorneys will guide you through the process of recovering compensation for your injuries. Call us at (309) 250-1871 for a free and confidential consultation. Let us help you navigate this challenging time and secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding who pays your medical bills after an accident can be confusing. We can help. Contact us for a free consultation.

One of the most common questions at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC is about who pays medical bills after an automobile accident. Understandably, many clients believe that if they didn’t cause the accident, they shouldn’t be responsible for their medical bills. While this makes sense, the reality is more complex.

Responsibility for Medical Bills

When you seek medical treatment after an accident, the bill for that treatment is between you and the healthcare provider. Ultimately, the money to pay your medical bills will come from the insurance company of the driver who caused the accident. However, there are several steps and considerations involved in this process.

Determining Your Settlement

The total amount of your medical bills is a significant factor in determining the value of your case. Other factors include the severity of the accident, lost wages, disfigurement, and the loss of everyday life activities. These elements collectively influence the amount of your settlement.

Options for Paying Your Medical Bills

Since you are financially responsible for your medical bills until your settlement is resolved, here are some options to manage these expenses:

• Submit Your Bills to Your Health Insurance: Always submit your medical bills to your health insurance provider. If your health insurance covers these bills, a subrogation claim is created. When you receive your settlement, a portion will go towards reimbursing the health insurance company for the medical expenses they paid on your behalf.
• Submit Your Bills to Your Medical Payments Coverage: Many drivers have medical coverage (MedPay) on their automobile insurance policy. MedPay covers medical expenses regardless of who was at fault for the accident. You can submit your bills to your auto insurance company if you have this coverage. If you do not have MedPay, it’s advisable to consider adding it to your policy for future protection.
• Pay It Yourself: You can pay your medical bills out of pocket and seek reimbursement through settlement proceeds. This option may be necessary if you lack health insurance or MedPay coverage.

Why Legal Assistance is Crucial

Navigating the complexities of medical bill payments and settlements can be daunting. This is why seeking legal assistance immediately after an accident is essential. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we specialize in helping individuals injured in automobile accidents. We will review your case for free and work on a contingency basis, meaning we only receive a fee if you recover money for your injuries.

Contact a Trusted Automobile Accident Attorney Today

Don’t navigate this complex issue alone if you’ve been involved in an accident. Contact Schierer & Ritchie, LLC at (309) 250-1871 for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your options and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and medical expenses.

Schierer & Ritchie, LLC will assist you with your personal injury claim, disability benefits, legal procedures, and compensation for your injuries.

If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident and need to recover at home, you may qualify for disability benefits based on the severity of your injuries. These benefits are typically determined by a medical professional’s instructions regarding recovery time.

You’ve Been Injured in a Collision, Now What?

If you’ve been seriously injured in a car accident, focusing on your recovery should be your top priority. Many severe injuries from auto accidents may qualify you for disability or Social Security Disability (SSD). A medical professional will determine your recovery time and benefits based on the severity of your injuries.

Steps to Take After an Accident

• Secure Legal Help: Hire a dedicated team of Peoria personal injury attorneys to help you navigate the accident’s aftermath. Experienced lawyers can guide you on the necessary steps, filings, and what will happen with your job.
• Employment Concerns: In Illinois, employers are not required to hold your position open during recovery. However, Schierer & Ritchie, LLC can help you seek the total and fair compensation you need, regardless of your employment status post-accident.

Illinois as an At-Fault State

Illinois is an at-fault state for car accidents, meaning a personal injury claim can help you recover losses such as property damage, lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Be aware that there is a statute of limitations on filing a car accident lawsuit, so prompt action is essential.

How We Can Help

At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, our Peoria personal injury lawyers are here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. We handle the complex legalities of car accidents so you can focus on your recovery.

If you suffer an injury in a car accident, one of the pressing questions is, “Who will pay for my medical bills?”

Illinois is not a “no-fault” state, meaning you are responsible for your medical expenses. While a personal injury settlement or trial verdict can help, you won’t receive any funds until your case is resolved. Notably, the at-fault driver is not liable for your ongoing medical bills during this time.

At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, our Peoria car accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and interests. We can help you recover the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today: (309) 250-1871.

Options for Covering Medical Bills

There are several ways to manage medical expenses after an auto accident:

• MedPay (Medical Payments Coverage)
  • MedPay is an optional coverage in your auto insurance policy. Coverage amounts range from $2,500 to $10,000, and it pays your medical bills regardless of fault.
• Health Insurance
  • Your health insurance can cover your medical expenses by applying contracted rates with your provider. You may still be responsible for copays or deductibles. Your health insurance company may also reimburse a portion of your personal injury settlement.
• Liens
  • Hospitals often file liens to ensure they are reimbursed for their services. You won’t be billed with a lien until your case is resolved. A lawyer can help you review and enter a lien agreement.
• Cash Payments
  • In rare cases, you might pay your medical bills upfront with cash.

Dealing with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

When seeking compensation from the other driver’s insurance company, remember they do not consider your best interests. They may attempt to reduce your settlement or deny your claim.

Contact Us Today

At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, our Peoria car accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and interests. We can help you recover the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us today: (309) 250-1871.