Springfield Red Light Accident Lawyer
Red light accidents are a common and dangerous occurrence in Springfield, IL. These accidents typically happen when a driver fails to stop at a red light or tries to “beat” the light by accelerating through an intersection. Major intersections in Springfield, such as those on Veterans Parkway, Dirksen Parkway, and South Grand Avenue, are frequent sites of these collisions due to high traffic volumes and distracted driving.
Red light accidents can occur for several reasons, including:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers may be distracted by their phones, GPS, or other in-car activities, leading them to miss the red light signal.
- Impatience or Aggressive Driving: Some drivers may speed up to avoid waiting for the next green light, increasing the risk of a collision.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment slows reaction times and impairs judgment, making it more likely that a driver will run a red light.
- Poor Visibility: Bad weather or poorly maintained traffic signals can make it difficult for drivers to see red lights, leading to accidents.
Common Injuries Resulting from Red Light Accidents
Red light accidents often involve high-speed impacts, especially when a vehicle is struck from the side (T-bone collision). This can result in serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries, such as:
- Head and Brain Injuries: The impact from a collision can cause traumatic brain injuries, ranging from concussions to more severe conditions like brain swelling or hemorrhaging.
- Neck and Spine Injuries: The force of a collision can result in whiplash, herniated discs, or even spinal cord damage, leading to long-term pain and mobility issues.
- Broken Bones: Collisions at intersections often result in broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs, due to the force of impact.
- Chest and Abdominal Injuries: Seatbelts, while lifesaving, can cause bruising or even internal injuries during a severe crash, particularly to the chest and abdomen.
- Lacerations and Bruises: Shattered glass, loose objects, and the impact itself can cause deep cuts, bruises, and other soft tissue injuries.
What an Accident Lawsuit Looks Like for Victims in Springfield, IL
If you’re a victim of a red light accident in Springfield, IL, pursuing a lawsuit can help you recover compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Here’s what the process generally involves:
- Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation: After seeking medical attention, your first step should be to consult with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your case and advise you on the best course of action.
- Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will gather evidence to support your claim, such as traffic camera footage, eyewitness accounts, police reports, and expert testimony on traffic patterns and signal operations.
- Filing the Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, your attorney may file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This involves submitting a formal complaint to the court outlining your claims.
- Negotiation and Settlement Talks: Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations before going to trial. Your attorney will handle these discussions to ensure that any settlement offer is fair and covers all your damages.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial: During discovery, both sides exchange information, gather further evidence, and prepare for a potential trial. This phase is crucial for building a strong case.
- Trial: If the case goes to trial, your attorney will present your case before a judge or jury, arguing for full compensation based on the evidence collected.
- Compensation: If successful, you may be awarded compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
Patel Law, PC Know How to Handle Springfield Red Light Accidents
Patel Law, PC, based in Springfield, IL, has extensive experience handling red light accident cases. Our team is dedicated to helping victims secure the compensation they deserve and navigate the legal process with confidence. We provide the following services:
- Thorough Investigation: We conduct a comprehensive investigation into your accident, collecting all necessary evidence to build a compelling case.
- Expert Negotiation: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will work tirelessly to obtain a fair settlement from the insurance company, ensuring your rights are protected.
- Aggressive Representation: If your case goes to trial, we provide strong and aggressive representation to fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
- Personalized Support: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a red light accident can take on your life. Our team is here to provide compassionate support and guide you through every step of the legal process.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a red light accident in Springfield, IL, contact Patel Law, PC today. Our experienced attorneys are ready to help you seek justice and secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.
