Intersection Injury Accident Lawyers

Car Accident Attorneys Serving Naperville, Aurora, and St. Charles, IL

Intersection accidents are among the most common and dangerous types of vehicle collisions. In Illinois, intersection accidents are a significant contributor to traffic injuries and fatalities. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), nearly 40% of all car accidents in the state occur at intersections. This high percentage underscores the importance of being vigilant and cautious when approaching and navigating intersections.

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents

Intersection accidents occur for various reasons, often involving a combination of driver error, environmental factors, and traffic signal issues. Common causes include:

1. Failure to Yield: Drivers failing to yield the right-of-way when required by traffic laws.
2. Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals and stop signs frequently leads to collisions at intersections.
3. Distracted Driving: Activities such as texting, eating, or using in-car technologies divert the driver’s attention from the road.
4. Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
5. Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment and reaction times, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
6. Poor Visibility: Weather conditions, poorly designed intersections, and obstructions can limit a driver’s visibility, leading to accidents.
7. Complex Traffic Patterns: Busy intersections with multiple lanes and turning options can confuse drivers, leading to collisions.

Types of Injuries in Intersection Accidents

Intersection accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Resulting from head impacts during collisions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Potentially causing partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones: Common in high-impact crashes.
• Whiplash: Caused by sudden neck movements during collisions.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs due to the force of the accident.
• Cuts and Bruises: Resulting from shattered glass and impacts.

Legal Considerations in Intersection Accidents

1. Determining Fault: Establishing who is at fault is crucial in intersection accidents. Fault can lie with one or more drivers, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
2. Negligence: Proving negligence is key to securing compensation. This involves showing that the other party failed to act with reasonable care.
3. Traffic Laws: Understanding and applying Illinois traffic laws, including right-of-way rules and traffic signal regulations, is essential in building a case.
4. Insurance Claims: Dealing with insurance companies can be complex. At John J. Malm & Associates, our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you navigate the claims process and negotiate for fair compensation.
5. Comparative Negligence: Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.

“At our firm, we utilize the science of accident reconstruction to establish crucial details in intersection collision cases. Our experts collect and analyze vital data, such as tire marks, vehicle damage, and impact points, to recreate the events leading to the crash. Using advanced technology and engineering principles, they determine the speed, trajectory, and location of each vehicle at the time of the collision. Remarkably, this information can be gleaned even in the absence of EDR or black box data. This analysis becomes especially critical in cases where someone has tragically died or when eyewitness testimony is lacking. By providing a detailed and accurate reconstruction, we can pinpoint fault with precision, ensuring that our clients’ claims are strong, and justice is served for those affected.”

Steps to Take After an Intersection Accident

1. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Let the police know if emergency services are needed if anyone is injured.
2. Report the Accident: Notify the police immediately and file a report. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
3. Gather Evidence: Collect information at the scene, including photographs, witness statements, and contact details of the other driver(s).
4. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Get a full medical evaluation.
5. Consult an Attorney: Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in intersection accidents. They can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.

Compensation for Intersection Accident Victims

Victims of intersection accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for all medical treatments related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Coverage for ongoing rehabilitation and therapy.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates

At John J. Malm & Associates, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support to victims of intersection accidents. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of personal injury law and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific situation and are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.

Contact the Naperville Car Accident Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has been involved in an intersection accident, contact the top-rated DuPage County car accident attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate your car accident claim and secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.