Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates is Chicago’s top motor vehicle accident law firm. While some lawyers avoid the courtroom, we take the opposite approach. Our attorneys prepare every case as if it will go to trial. This gives us the upper hand and shows insurance companies we are serious. Because of our proven record of winning big settlements and verdicts, they know we mean business.
If you’ve been hurt in a car accident, you don’t have to face it alone. Call Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Top-notch Chicago car accident attorneys who fight for you
Many law firms act on behalf of the injured in auto accident cases. Every law firm varies in its approach; some are more effective in maximizing compensation than others. Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates has over a hundred years of trial experience in Illinois courtrooms. Our Chicago personal injury attorneys understand what it takes to prove negligence and reach the best settlements possible for our clients.
Other points that set our legal practice apart include:
- Our Chicago car accident lawyers are responsible for historic or record-breaking victories, including the largest verdict in Illinois history for a personal injury claim.
- We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. There are no out-of-pocket costs for our clients.
- We have significant experience handling car accident cases in Chicago and understand how to handle even the most complex cases.
- A Chicago car accident lawyer at our firm will always pursue the maximum compensation possible in every case.
Exploring every avenue for compensation
After a car accident, every detail matters. The scene of the crash, the damage to the vehicles, and what eyewitnesses saw can all play a key role in proving your case. Just as important is looking at how your injuries will affect you in the future—both medically and financially. This helps us know the full amount of compensation to fight for.
Time is critical after an accident. The sooner you act, the stronger your case can be. Contact our Chicago car accident attorneys today so we can start protecting your rights and building your claim.
When should I hire a Chicago car accident attorney?
The best time to hire a car accident lawyer is right after the crash. We know that’s not always possible—especially if injuries keep you in the hospital, in pain, or unable to act. In these situations, family members can step in and contact our firm on your behalf.
Taking quick action matters. Important evidence can be lost or destroyed if too much time passes, making your case harder to prove. The sooner you reach out to us, the stronger your claim will be. Don’t wait—call our Chicago car accident attorneys today so we can start building your case.
Case results for Chicago car accident victims
$40 Million
Mike Wierzbicki and attorneys at Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, secured a settlement exceeding $40 million from a trucking company. The collision involved a semi-truck and a car, resulting in the car’s driver sustaining severe burn injuries. The settlement amount, which remains confidential, was obtained on behalf of the injured driver.
$16.4 Million
A car collision occurred due to the negligent driving of a “loaner car” from an auto dealership, leading to severe injuries and the death of those involved. Despite the challenges, including a refusal by the dealership’s insurance carrier to settle, the attorneys at Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, remained committed to pursuing justice and compensation for his client’s injuries.
$5.5 Million
Successfully obtained $5.5 million in claims against a prominent U.S. automobile manufacturer. The details of the settlement and associated facts are confidential under a confidentiality agreement.
Common car accident injuries our attorneys see
Vehicle accidents can cause severe injuries to any area of the body. Some of the most common injuries sustained include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Fractures
- Lacerations
- Disfiguring injuries
- Neck injuries
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Crush injuries
- Emotional anguish
- Other catastrophic injuries
Common causes of car accidents in Chicago, IL
Car accidents in Chicago happen for many reasons, from busy intersections to crowded highways. Some crashes are minor, while others cause life-changing injuries. Below are some of the most common types of accidents our attorneys see on a regular basis.
These car crashes are often caused by aggressive driving, distracted driving, road rage, or even drunk driving. Our team of Chicago car accident attorneys can determine who is liable for your car accident and help you pursue compensation.
Our Chicago car accident attorneys will help you recover maximum compensation
The value of your car accident injury claim hinges on the total amount of your damages. However, the amount you receive may not be exactly how much the accident cost you, for better or worse.
The following factors come into play when determining how much a car accident claim is worth:
- How the accident happened
- Any comparative negligence you bear
- The actions of the defendant leading to the accident
Considering the elements listed above, the compensation you receive may be less than or equal to the total amount of your damages or exceed the total amount of your economic damages.
Economic damages
To calculate how much your car accident injury claim is worth, assess your total economic damages resulting from the incident. Economic damages are generally the easiest to prove in any motor vehicle accident injury claim. Retain copies of all:
- Repair invoices
- Medical bills
- Receipts for anything related to your car accident after the incident
Medical treatment
If a negligent defendant caused a car accident with your vehicle and is responsible for your injuries, the defendant is liable for any medical treatment you require. Your medical expenses can include hospital bills, ambulance fees, and all other costs related to your medical care, but only those resulting from the injuries from your accident.
Lost income
An auto accident may cause a severe injury that prevents you from working and driving for an extended time. You may develop permanent damage that prevents you from working in the future. You may secure compensation for lost future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from resuming work or working at all after your injury.
Property damage
The defendant is liable for the damage to your vehicle, so repair or replacement costs will likely form a sizable portion of your overall economic damages.
An experienced Chicago car accident lawyer can help you gather the materials necessary to prove the extent of your economic damages (i.e., medical bills). Still, you could be eligible for further compensation.
Non-economic damages (pain & suffering)
In addition to financial losses, the court may also award compensation for pain and suffering. This type of compensation covers the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish a victim experiences because of someone else’s negligence.
- The amount awarded depends on several factors, including:
- How severe the injuries are
- Whether the injuries caused a permanent disability
- How the victim’s quality of life is affected after recovery
Generally, the more serious and long-lasting the injuries, the higher the compensation for pain and suffering.
To support these claims, attorneys may bring in expert witnesses. For example, if an injury leads to permanent disability, a medical or vocational expert can explain how it will affect the victim’s future health and ability to earn a living. This testimony strengthens the case and helps prove the full impact of the injuries.
Punitive damages
In rare cases, Illinois courts may award punitive damages to punish especially harmful behavior, such as drunk driving or fleeing from police. The amount depends on the severity of the conduct and the defendant’s financial status, with wealthier defendants often facing higher penalties. It’s also important to note Illinois’ comparative negligence rule: if a plaintiff is less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages, but their award will be reduced by their percentage of fault.
Your Chicago car accident attorney will be with you throughout the process
When a case proceeds to civil court, it has several phases.
Case preparation
This process involves sharing information about the case, such as medical records, accident scene investigation information, witnesses who observed the auto accident, and other data.
Negotiations
An effort to resolve the case out of court will be required. This is part of the process in which a settlement agreement may be reached.
The trial
The rules of evidence govern all trials. The judge makes decisions about what evidence can be presented. Witnesses are called to give evidence. In car accident cases, this may include eyewitnesses to the accident, medical experts, financial experts, and accident investigators, among others. Each side has the opportunity to question these experts.
Your experienced trial lawyers, Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, have extensive experience in case development and presentation. Our record of achieving high-value settlements and jury awards has led to our reputation as Chicago’s leading car accident lawyers.
Jury deliberation
After both sides’ attorneys have finished presenting their cases, the trial is concluded. The jury must then decide whether the defendant (the at-fault party) was responsible and how much compensation should be paid to the plaintiff (the injured person).
In a civil trial, the jury is given specific instructions to follow in coming to a verdict and determining compensation. The damages must include compensation for the emotional disturbance accompanying the injuries. We do not compromise in protecting the legal rights of our clients to recover fair and total compensation, whether at trial or in settlement negotiations.
Chicago car accident stats
Car accidents occur at a staggering rate in Illinois. Some of the most recent statistics from 2023, published by the Illinois Department of Transportation, include:
- 299,133 total accidents
- 20.6% were injury crashes
- Fewer than 1% were fatal
The most common types of accidents were:
- Front-to-rear collision: 72,706 (25.31%)
- Turning: 53,825 (18.00%)
- Parked: 35,097 (11.73%)
- Angle: 29,271 (9.79%)
- Fixed object: 27,059 (9.05%)
160,036 (53.53%) of these accidents were in Cook County, and over 68.1% of car accidents were on urban roads. This combination of data highlights how common car accidents are in Chicago, in particular, and how prepared you should be to take action if it happens to you.
Hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault? Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates’ Chicago car accident attorneys can help.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates is committed to pursuing the maximum damages in negotiations or at trial. Whether a driver, company, or defective auto part was responsible for your accident, we can help assign liability. Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates will work hard to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free case consultation.
Frequently asked questions about Chicago car accidents
What happens if I’m partially to blame for the car accident?
In Illinois, you can still get compensation after a crash even if you share some of the blame. As long as you are less than 50% at fault, you may recover money for your losses. However, the amount is reduced by your share of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your payment will be cut by 20%. Proving fault can be simple, like when a driver is convicted of DUI, or more complicated, depending on the case.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Illinois?
After a car accident, you have a limited time to take legal action. In most cases, you must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident. If the crash caused a wrongful death, the deadline is one year from the date of death.
Insurance claims usually need to be filed much sooner—often within a few weeks of the accident. That’s why it’s important to act quickly and speak with an attorney who can make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.
Will I have to go to court?
Not always. Most car accident cases in Illinois are settled through insurance negotiations before ever reaching trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking the case to court. Preparing every case as if it will go to trial helps strengthen your position and can often lead to better settlements.
How long does the car accident lawsuit process take in Chicago?
The process of seeking justice through the civil court system requires time. While drivers in Illinois are required to carry car insurance, some types of injuries result in damages that exceed the limits on a driver’s auto insurance policy. Predicting the time needed to resolve your case requires an in-depth evaluation of the facts.
Many car accident cases can be settled outside of court, but even that process can be lengthy, particularly in cases of severe or fatal injuries. We urge you to call our Chicago car accident lawyers so we can work together to review the details and establish a realistic timeline for your lawsuit.
