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Motorcycle Accidents: Navigating the Terrain of Illinois Law
As an established personal injury law firm in Chicago, the Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates has time and again witnessed the devastation and subsequent legal hurdles that can ensue from motorcycle accidents in Illinois. With heavy traffic and increasingly distracted drivers, the Land of Lincoln has its fair share of motorcycle mishaps. As such, our goal in this blog post is to equip you with a comprehensive understanding of Illinois motorcycle accident laws.
Illinois Motorcycle Law: The Basics
One fundamental aspect of understanding motorcycle accidents Illinois law is recognizing that this state follows a “fault” car insurance system. Simply put, the driver who is found to be legally at fault for the accident is responsible for any consequent injuries or property damage. However, determining who is at fault in a motorcycle accident can be complex due to numerous factors that might be involved. This is why retaining an expert legal counsel like Carlson Bier Associates can be instrumental in navigating these legal intricacies.
The Crucial Role of Helmets in Illinois Law
While personally we advocate for the use of helmets as a safety measure, it’s worth noting that Illinois is one of the few states in the U.S. that does not have a mandatory helmet law for motorcyclists. However, lack of helmet use can still drastically impact a motorcycle accident claim. Though not wearing a helmet doesn’t necessarily affect the determination of fault, it could potentially diminish the value of the injured motorcyclist’s claim, especially in cases involving head injuries.
Comparative Negligence and its Impact on Compensation
Illinois law adopts the principle of comparative negligence in motorcycle accident cases. This rule allows a party to recover damages even if they are partially to blame for the accident, as long as they are less than 50% at fault. The court essentially adjusts the amount of compensation you can receive based on the percentage of fault you bear. For instance, if you were 20% at fault, your total potential compensation would be reduced by 20%.
Statute of Limitations for Illinois Motorcycle Accidents
Under Illinois law, victims of motorcycle accidents usually have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule, which is why it is essential to get in touch with a knowledgeable attorney as soon as possible following an accident. Failing to file within this period could bar you from receiving any compensation for your injuries.
Working with An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Retaining an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can make a significant difference to your claim. This is precisely where the Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates comes in. We work diligently to shield your rights and advocate for your rightful compensation. The complexities encircling motorcycle accidents Illinois law necessitate the involvement of a proficient attorney.
We also urge you to familiarize yourself with Illinois law by visiting the community resources found on the Illinois Courts’ official website.
Motorcycle Accidents and Illinois Law: Wrapping Up
Navigating the intricacies of motorcycle accidents Illinois law can be challenging. Nonetheless, a strong understanding of these laws is critical when involved in a motorcycle accident. From comprehension of the basics like ‘fault’ system and relevance of helmets, to more intricate aspects like comparative negligence and statute of limitations, every detail can impact your claim.
Working with Carlson Bier Associates can help you navigate this legal labyrinth effectively. Equipped with the legal acumen and extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident cases, we champion your cause and work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
