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 do you do after a car accident? At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we’re here to help you and protect your rights.

Car accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can significantly impact your safety, health, and legal standing. Remaining calm is crucial if you are in a car accident.

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria, consider contacting us at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety

• Assess Yourself and Passengers: Take a moment to assess your condition immediately after the accident. Check for injuries on yourself, passengers, and others involved in the accident. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance.
• Move to a Safe Location: If possible and without causing further injury, move your vehicle out of the traffic flow to avoid additional accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation.

Call the Police

• Report the Accident: In Peoria, it’s essential to call the police to report the accident, regardless of the severity. The responding officers will document the scene and create an official accident report, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
• Provide Accurate Information: When speaking to the police, provide an accurate account of what happened. Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about who was at fault. Stick to the facts and allow the police to conduct their investigation.

Exchange Information with the Other Driver

• Gather Necessary Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Be sure to collect the following details:
  • Full name and contact information
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license number
  • License plate number
  • Vehicle make, model, and color
• Avoid Confrontation: Keep the interaction with the other driver(s) cordial. Do not engage in arguments or discuss the details of the accident beyond exchanging necessary information.

Document the Accident Scene

• Take Photographs: Use your smartphone or a camera to take detailed photos of the accident scene, including:
  • Damage to all vehicles involved
  • Skid marks, debris, or any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident
  • Traffic signs, signals, and surrounding environment
• Record Details: Record the accident’s time, date, and location. Note any relevant weather conditions or road hazards that could have affected the accident.

Identify and Collect Information from Witnesses

• Speak to Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and a brief statement of what they observed. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony if there are disputes about what happened.
• Record Their Statements: If possible, record their statements using your phone or write them down. Ensure you have their names and phone numbers for future reference.

Seek Medical Attention

• Get a Medical Evaluation: Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention immediately after the accident is crucial. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a doctor’s evaluation can help identify and document any injuries you have sustained.
• Follow Medical Advice: If a healthcare provider prescribes a treatment plan, follow it carefully. Keep all medical records, as they may be necessary for future legal claims.

Notify Your Insurance Company

• Report the Accident: Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident. Provide them with all necessary information, including the police report number, the other driver’s details, and any photographs or documentation you’ve gathered.
• Understand Your Coverage: Ask your insurance company about your coverage and what steps you need to take next. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim and getting your vehicle repaired.

Consult with an Attorney

• Understand Your Rights: If you’ve been injured or believe the accident was not your fault, it’s wise to consult with a personal injury attorney in Peoria. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
• Avoid Settling Too Soon: Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement, but it’s important to consult an attorney before accepting any offers. Once you settle, you typically waive your right to pursue further compensation.

Keep Detailed Records

• Organize Your Documents: Keep a detailed record of all documents related to the accident, including:
  • Police reports
  • Medical records and bills
  • Correspondence with insurance companies
  • Receipts for any expenses related to the accident
• Document Your Recovery: Maintain a journal documenting your recovery process, including any pain, suffering, and impact on your daily life. This can be useful if you pursue a personal injury claim.

Stay Informed and Proactive

• Follow Up: Stay in touch with your insurance company and attorney to ensure your case progresses. Respond to any requests for information promptly to avoid delays.
• Be Aware of Deadlines: Be mindful of any legal deadlines for filing claims or lawsuits in Illinois. An attorney can help you navigate these timelines and protect your rights.

Contact Us Today

A car accident can be a life-altering event, but knowing what to do immediately afterward can significantly affect the outcome. You can protect yourself physically, legally, and financially by following these steps. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria, consider contacting us at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we understand the complexities of these situations and are here to guide you through the process.

Being involved in a car accident is a stressful experience, but it becomes even more challenging when the at-fault driver is uninsured. Schierer & Ritchie, LLC helps people who were the victims of car crashes. We have experience helping people who find out that the person who caused the accident has no insurance. Fortunately, if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you can still seek compensation for your damages.

Our experienced team can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

1. Get Medical Attention

Anytime you or someone else is hurt in an accident, you must immediately seek medical attention. This could mean life or death. Even non-life-threatening injuries need immediate medical attention. Don’t wait. Get medical attention and let the professionals know everything that feels wrong after the accident. Make all of your appointments. Never miss a follow-up or physical therapy appointment.

2. Check Your Insurance Policy

The lawyers at Schierer & Ritchie, LLC can help you review your auto insurance policy to confirm that you have uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage protects you in situations where the at-fault driver lacks insurance. UM coverage typically includes compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage, depending on the specifics of your policy. Understanding the limits and exclusions of your coverage will give you a clear idea of what to expect from the claims process.

3. Report the Accident to the Police

It’s essential to report the accident to the police immediately, even if the other driver is uninsured. A police report serves as an official record of the incident, detailing the circumstances of the crash, the parties involved, and any citations issued. This report will be a critical piece of evidence when filing your uninsured motorist claim, as it helps establish fault and supports your account of the accident. This is important and required if the at-fault driver flees the scene before you can get their information. If the responsible party drives away, try to recall as much as you can to describe the car that hit you and the driver.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

After ensuring your safety and reporting the accident to the police, you should notify your insurance company immediately. Inform them that the at-fault driver is uninsured and that you intend to file an uninsured motorist claim. Most insurance companies require prompt notification of an accident, typically within 24 hours, to ensure the claim process begins smoothly.

When contacting your insurer, provide them with all relevant details about the accident, including the police report number, the other driver’s information, and any witness statements. Be honest and thorough in your account of the incident to avoid any potential issues with your claim later.

5. Document Your Damages

To support your uninsured motorist claim, you must document all damages resulting from the accident. This includes:

• Medical Records: Keep detailed records of any medical treatment you receive, including doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, and rehabilitation. Obtain copies of medical bills, diagnosis reports, and any other relevant documentation that reflects the extent of your injuries.
• Property Damage: Take photographs of the damage to your vehicle and any other personal property affected by the accident. Obtain repair estimates or receipts for any work already completed.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work, document the time you’ve missed and provide proof of your lost wages. This can include pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer.
• Pain and Suffering: While more challenging to quantify, you can also seek compensation for pain and suffering. Keep a journal detailing the physical and emotional impact of the accident on your daily life.

We Will Work with Your Insurance Company and Request Arbitration if Necessary

Once you’ve filed your claim, your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your case. The adjuster’s role is to investigate the accident, assess the damages, and determine the compensation you are entitled to under your policy. Cooperate fully with the adjuster, providing all requested documentation and answering any questions. It’s important to remember that the adjuster works for the insurance company, so their goal is to settle the claim efficiently and cost-effectively. You should follow the advice of your lawyer. Your insurance company may want a statement or additional documents to prove your damages. If you feel that the settlement offer is too low, you have the right to negotiate or even request arbitration on a fair payout under the policy. Be prepared to present additional evidence or documentation to support your case.

Filing an uninsured motorist claim after being the victim of a car crash can be daunting. Call the law firm of Schierer & Ritchie, LLC immediately if you have been the victim of an uninsured driver. Securing legal help is vital in recovering the compensation you need for your injuries and damages. By understanding your policy, documenting your losses, and working closely with your insurance company—or a lawyer if necessary—you can effectively navigate the claims process and secure the financial support you need to move forward.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony DUIs: Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC for professional legal representation and a free consultation.

In Illinois, a DUI arrest can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances. Felony DUIs carry severe penalties, including hefty fines and lengthy jail time. Understanding the difference between misdemeanor and felony DUIs and knowing what to do if you are charged is crucial.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC at (309) 250-1871 for experienced legal representation. We look forward to your call!

Misdemeanor DUI in Illinois

A DUI is typically charged as a misdemeanor under the following conditions:

• First or Second Offense: If this is your first or second DUI offense.
• BAC Level: Driving with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of 0.08 or higher.
• Other Substances: Driving under the influence of prescription drugs, illegal drugs, or medical marijuana.

Penalties for a misdemeanor DUI include:

• Up to 1 year in jail
• Fines up to $2,500

Felony DUI in Illinois

When certain aggravating factors are present, a DUI can be elevated to a felony, known as an aggravated DUI. These aggravating factors significantly increase the severity of the offense and the penalties involved.

Aggravating Factors in DUIs

Typical aggravating factors that can turn a DUI into a felony include:

• Having two or more prior DUI violations
• Causing significant injury or death
• Driving without insurance
• Driving without a license or on a suspended license
• Driving in the wrong direction at the time of the crash
• Felony Classifications and Penalties

Depending on the aggravating factors, an aggravated DUI may fall into one of three felony classes, each with distinct penalties.

Class 4 Felony DUIs

Class 4 felonies are the least severe felony charges and carry a minimum penalty of 1 year in jail. Aggravating factors for a Class 4 felony DUI include:

• Driving a school bus with minors onboard
• Involvement in an accident causing significant injury, disfigurement, or permanent disability, even if it’s your first DUI
• A second DUI with a prior record of alcohol-related reckless homicide
• Causing bodily harm while driving in a school zone
• Driving with a suspended, revoked, expired, or no license
• Driving without car insurance

Class 3 Felony DUIs

Class 3 felonies carry penalties of 2 to 5 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. An example of an aggravating factor for a Class 3 felony DUI is a previous conviction of reckless homicide if your DUI causes a fatality.

Class 2 Felony DUIs

Class 2 felonies are punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Aggravating factors for a Class 2 felony DUI include:

• Third DUI conviction
• Second DUI conviction with a passenger under the age of 16
• Causing bodily harm to a passenger under 16, even if it’s your first DUI
• Causing the death of another person, even if it’s your first DUI

Seeking Legal Representation

If you are charged with a DUI, obtaining skilled legal representation is crucial. The attorneys at Schierer & Ritchie have decades of combined experience handling DUI cases throughout Peoria and the surrounding areas. Our team will fight to defend your rights and has a proven track record of getting charges reduced or even dropped.

Services Offered

• Free Initial Consultation: Contact us anytime for a complimentary initial consultation.
• Flexible Appointments: We offer evening and weekend appointments to accommodate your schedule.
• Convenient Meetings: We can meet you by phone, at our office, or at a convenient location.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC

If you face DUI charges, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC at (309) 250-1871 for experienced and compassionate legal representation. We look forward to your call!

Schierer & Ritchie LLC provides expert legal support to fight DUI charges. Contact us for a free consultation.

Illinois is extremely strict when it comes to impaired driving. Before you get behind the wheel, familiarize yourself with the new DUI laws in Illinois. Following these laws could save your life, your passengers’ lives, and your future.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC for a free and confidential consultation. Our results speak for themselves, and we are here to help you fight your DUI charges.

What Is DUI?

You are considered to be driving under the influence (DUI) if you operate a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. It’s important to note that you can get a DUI even if you are using legally prescribed medication or medicinal marijuana.

Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)

• Non-Commercial Drivers: Illinois law prohibits the operation of a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
• Commercial Drivers: The legal limit for commercial drivers is stricter, at 0.04%.

Zero Tolerance for Minors

Illinois has a zero-tolerance policy for minors who drink and drive. For individuals under 21, the legal BAC is 0.00%. Driving with any detectable alcohol in their system is a criminal offense and may result in a two-year license suspension.

Driving with Medical Marijuana

Illinois permits the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. To use medicinal marijuana legally, you must obtain:

• A written prescription from an Illinois-certified physician.
• An Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) registration card.

Your registration with the IDPH will be noted on your driving record and accessible to law enforcement.

Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana

• Impairment: It is illegal to drive while under the influence of cannabis.
• Transportation: Medical marijuana must be stored in a sealed container and kept in an area of the car where the driver cannot access it, such as the trunk.

If law enforcement suspects impairment from marijuana, you must take a field sobriety test. Refusing or failing the test could result in losing your driver’s license. Additionally, driving under the influence or with an open container could lead to losing both your license and your medical marijuana card.

Aggravated DUI

Certain factors, known as aggravating factors, can elevate a DUI from a misdemeanor to a felony with much steeper penalties. Aggravating factors include:

• Repeat Offenses: Third and subsequent DUI convictions or second DUI convictions while transporting a child under 16.
• Related Offenses: Second DUI conviction following an alcohol-related homicide offense.
• Injury or Death: DUIs that result in injury or death, with harsher penalties if the victim is a child under 16.
• Special Vehicles: DUIs while driving a school bus or vehicle-for-hire with passengers on board.
• School Zones: DUIs inflicting injury in a school zone.
• No License or Insurance: DUIs when driving without a license or liability insurance.
• New in 2019: DUIs involving driving a vehicle in the wrong direction at the time of arrest or crash.

Typically, a DUI is a class A misdemeanor in Illinois, punishable by up to one year in jail. However, an aggravated DUI is a felony with penalties that may include fines up to $25,000 and sentences up to 28 years in prison for multiple fatalities.

How to Get Out of a DUI in Peoria

If you have been charged with a DUI, it is crucial to select a defense attorney quickly. At Schierer & Ritchie, our Peoria criminal defense lawyers have over 30 years of experience helping clients get their charges reduced or even dropped.

Our Approach

• Case Examination: We thoroughly examine every aspect of your case.
• Rights Protection: We look for instances in which the police may have violated your constitutional rights or failed to follow legal procedures.
• Legal Procedures: Even how you were stopped can impact your case.

Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC

Don’t delay in seeking legal assistance. Contact Schierer & Ritchie LLC for a free and confidential consultation. Our results speak for themselves, and we are here to help you fight your DUI charges.

One minute, you were driving home from work, and the next, you heard the sound of tires skidding and metal crumpling.

You came to your senses just in time to see the driver who hit you speeding away. You’re the victim of a hit-and-run car accident. Why would someone leave the accident scene, and what should you do?

FREE CONSULTATION

CALL (309) 250-1871

Why Would a Driver Leave the Scene?

By Illinois law, all drivers involved in a car accident must stay at the scene. However, it doesn’t always work out that way. There are several reasons a driver might flee the scene:

• They are intoxicated
• They don’t have a driver’s license
• They don’t have insurance
• The car doesn’t belong to them
• The car contains stolen property or drugs
• The car is a company car, and the driver doesn’t want his company to find out there was an accident
• The driver has multiple traffic tickets and wants to avoid getting another
• The driver has an arrest warrant against him and doesn’t want to be caught by the police

What to Do

Remain Calm and Stay Put

Take a deep breath. If you are hurt, seek medical attention immediately. Check if other drivers and passengers involved in the accident are injured. Don’t move an injured person unless their safety is in jeopardy, but try to move vehicles off the road, out of traffic, if possible.

Remain at the accident scene and wait for the police to arrive. Whatever you do, do not chase the other driver. Catching the at-fault driver is a job best left to law enforcement.

Record Every Detail You Remember

The most important detail is the license plate number of the other car, even if you can only remember part of it. However, every detail helps.

What kind of car was it? Was the car a distinctive color? Was it speeding? What direction was it headed? Did it have any bumper stickers or visible damage? What state was the license plate from? Did you see the driver or any passengers? Can you describe their appearances?

Anything and everything that you can remember will help the police in their efforts to track down the driver who hit you.

Find Witnesses

If there were any eyewitnesses to the accident, talk to them. Record anything useful they might remember about the accident and take their contact information in case the police or your insurance company have additional questions.

Get Medical Attention

Even if you think you’re okay, never refuse medical attention after a car accident. Sometimes, the stress of a car accident can mask injuries, which often arise a few days later. Should that happen, having medical documentation will help you prove that the accident caused the injuries.

Take Photos

Take pictures of your car and the accident scene. Make sure to get close-up shots of the damage to your vehicle and any debris on the road. The police may be able to use paint scrapes to identify the other car.

Also, take as many photos as you can of your injuries. These could be useful evidence in a personal injury lawsuit later on.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Finally, immediately notify your insurance company of the accident, even if you think you may be partially at fault.

What Happens Next?

Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, so the police will try to locate the guilty driver. If the driver is found, they will get a traffic ticket at the minimum. If their hit-and-run caused injuries or significant damage, they could face criminal charges.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

If the hit-and-run driver has insurance, their liability coverage should pay for the damage to your car and your injuries, up to their coverage limits. If the driver does not have insurance, or if your injuries are severe, you must file a personal injury lawsuit against them to recover damages.

Get Help from Peoria Car Accident Lawyers

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, the last thing you should have to deal with is the headache that a hit-and-run driver leaves behind. The experienced and compassionate attorneys at Schierer & Ritchie can help you get the compensation you deserve so you can focus on recovering from your injuries and moving on with your life. Please contact our offices today for a confidential and free consultation.

FREE CONSULTATION

CALL (309) 250-1871

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.