Reckless driving describes any action that a person takes while behind the wheel that places others at risk of harm. In many instances, this behavior results in car accidents that inflict serious physical and emotional injuries.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by a reckless driver, you may want to consider working with a Chicago reckless driving attorney. To recover compensation, not only will you need to prove that another driver was to blame for the collision, but you will also need to understand what constitutes a fair settlement offer.
If you make the decision to hire an attorney, The Kryder Law Group, LLC wants to help you. Many law offices could offer you help but we can clearly explain the concept of reckless driving and help you recover the cost of your accident-related losses. Even if the other driver was charged with reckless or negligent driving, you still have the ability to seek compensation for your losses.
Our legal team can take the lead in dealing with the insurance companies and guiding your case to completion. Reach out to us today for a free consultation. We can explain how a Chicago car accident caused by reckless driving lawyer can assist you.
In this Article
Reckless Driving Causes Car Accidents
Every driver who gets behind the wheel of a car or truck in Chicago has the same duty to keep others safe. It is no secret that these vehicles have the potential to cause life-altering injuries after a collision. As a result, the state has passed many laws against reckless driving practices to prevent the willful or wanton disregard of the safety of others on the road.
What Is Reckless Driving?
625 ILCS 5/11-503 describes reckless driving as any action behind the wheel that exhibits a willful disregard for the safety of others.
Prominent examples include:
Driving beyond the speed limit
Driving at night without headlights
Operating a vehicle that a driver knows to be dangerous
Driving without caution where caution should be taken such as a railroad crossing
Reckless driving is also a criminal offense. A reckless driving charge is a Class A misdemeanor. However, other aggravating circumstances, such as causing bodily harm to a child, can raise the charge to a Class 4 felony.
An Experienced Lawyer Can Help
A Chicago lawyer experienced in the right practice areas can provide more information about the state’s reckless driving laws and what information can support your case. You can call The Kryder Law Group, LLC to get started with a free consultation.
Determining Fault and Liability for Your Chicago Car Accident
The days following a car crash can fill you with questions regarding whether you need to work with a lawyer following an accident. While it is true that hiring a lawyer is not necessary, you may want to consider the benefits of having an experienced reckless driving attorney on your side.
You will never find that an insurance company or a courthouse will reject your case because you do not have legal representation. However, when making the decision to hire a lawyer, you should consider whether you can prove fault and liability on your own.
Fault Can Determine How Much You Can Recover
Determining fault is especially important considering the state’s law concerning shared fault. Per 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, the state applies a concept called “modified comparative negligence” to car accidents. In short, if you were more than 50% to blame for a collision, you cannot recover compensation for your losses.
Additionally, if you do hold a percentage of fault for the accident, that percentage will detract from the amount of compensation you can receive.
A Chicago car accident caused by reckless driving can determine fault and liability for your losses. They can also make sure that your percentage of fault accurately represents your role in the accident.
Recoverable Damages in a Chicago Car Accident Case
Following a car accident, you may have many questions regarding the cost of your damages. A lawyer from The Kryder Law Group, LLC can calculate the value of your case and enter into negotiations with the liable insurer.
You may be able to recover the cost of the following expenses:
Pain and suffering
Health care bills
Lost income
Physical therapy and medications
Reduced future earning capacity
Disability
Impaired quality of life
Property damage costs
You may be able to recover compensation for losses not listed here.
Speak with an experienced reckless driving lawyer from The Kryder Law Group, LLC so they can help you determine what losses you can be compensated for in your accident case. Call for your free consultation.
The Kryder Law Group, LLC Can Advance Your Legal Goals
The Kryder Law Group, LLC can help you seek fair compensation for your losses. A lawyer from our team can provide more information into how Chicago views reckless driving accidents. We want to set your mind at ease during this difficult time and help you focus on your recovery.
Our experienced attorneys can also:
Calculate the cost of your expenses
Draft and send your demand letter to the insurance company
Identify the liable and at-fault parties
Consult with your medical team regarding your injuries
Gather evidence to demonstrate negligence
Negotiate for a settlement
File a lawsuit and represent you in court, if necessary
Our legal team can also manage the deadlines surrounding your personal injury case. One of those deadlines includes Illinois’ statute of limitations, which is outlined under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Claimants typically have a two-year period to file a lawsuit.
A Chicago car accident lawyer can get started pursuing compensation on your behalf today. Call us for a free consultation. We can explain in further detail how a lawyer from our team can serve your legal goals.
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