Chicago Freeway Crashes Lawyer

This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founder, Joseph Conboy who has years of legal experience. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.

Last updated on: March 26, 2025

Joseph Conboy | March 26, 2025
Chicago Freeway Crashes Lawyer

Freeway accidents happen fast and often cause serious harm. High speeds, reckless drivers, and dangerous road conditions make these crashes more severe than other accidents. Victims may suffer severe injuries, high medical bills, and lost income.

Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers helps victims of car accidents in Chicago recover damages. If a negligent driver caused your crash, you may have a personal injury claim. Our team fights for fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Handling a car accident claim alone can be stressful. Insurance companies try to pay as little as possible. A skilled Chicago car accident lawyer can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Freeway Accidents

Common causes of freeway accidents

Freeways are high-speed roads, which means accidents can be serious. Drivers have less time to react, and mistakes can lead to deadly crashes. Victims of freeway crashes may incur expensive medical bills and long-term care.

A Chicago car accident lawyer can help injured drivers and passengers file a car accident claim to recover damages. Understanding the causes of freeway accidents can help prevent them and prove fault when a crash happens.

Many car accidents in Chicago happen on highways because of the following factors:

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is one of the top causes of car accidents in Chicago. Drivers who go over the speed limit have less time to stop or react. When a negligent driver speeds, they increase the risk of losing control or crashing into other vehicles. High-speed crashes often cause severe injuries or fatalities.

Reckless driving includes tailgating, aggressive lane changes, and ignoring traffic signals. Some drivers weave through traffic or fail to yield, causing dangerous auto accidents. At freeway speeds, even a small mistake can lead to a deadly collision.

Victims of speeding accidents may suffer broken bones, head trauma, or spinal injuries. A Chicago car accident attorney can help hold reckless drivers accountable. Police reports, traffic camera footage, and eyewitness statements can provide proof of negligence. If you were injured in a speeding crash, you may be entitled to fair compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of freeway accidents. At high speeds, looking away for even a second can cause a deadly crash. Common distractions include texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or using in-car technology.

Texting while driving is especially dangerous. A driver who reads or sends a message can travel the length of a football field without looking at the road. This increases the risk of rear-end collisions, lane departures, and multi-car motor vehicle accidents.

Victims of distracted driving crashes often face serious injuries and high medical bills. A Chicago car accident lawyer can help prove that a driver was distracted. Cell phone records, traffic camera footage, and witness testimony can support your car accident claim. If a distracted driver caused your crash, you may be able to recover damages for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Drunk or Impaired Driving

Drunk driving is a major cause of freeway crashes. Alcohol slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and makes it harder for drivers to stay in their lanes. Impaired drivers may speed, swerve, or drive the wrong way, increasing the risk of deadly auto accidents.

Drugs, including prescription medications, can also impair driving ability. A driver under the influence may not notice traffic signals or other vehicles, leading to head-on crashes or rollovers. Victims of drunk driving crashes often suffer serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage.

A Chicago car accident lawyer can help victims seek fair compensation. Police reports, breathalyzer tests, and witness statements can prove that a driver was impaired. If a negligent driver caused your crash, you may be able to file a car accident lawsuit to recover damages for medical care, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Weather-Related Crashes

Bad weather increases the risk of car accidents in Chicago. Rain, snow, and ice make roads slippery, reducing traction and making it harder to stop. Drivers who fail to slow down or adjust for road conditions can lose control of their vehicles.

Fog and heavy rain reduce visibility, making it harder to see other cars, traffic signals, or lane markings. High winds can also push vehicles into other lanes, causing motor vehicle accidents. If a driver speeds in dangerous conditions, they may be responsible for a car crash.

A Chicago car accident attorney can investigate if weather played a role in your crash. If another driver failed to drive carefully during poor conditions, they could be held liable for damages. Victims may be able to recover compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Mechanical Failures and Road Hazards

Some auto accidents happen because of vehicle malfunctions or dangerous road conditions. Brake failure, tire blowouts, and engine problems can cause a car wreck. If a defective part led to the crash, the manufacturer may be held responsible.

Poorly maintained roads can also cause accidents. Potholes, missing road signs, and debris in the roadway create hazards for drivers. If a government agency fails to maintain safe roads, they may be liable for damages in a car accident claim.

A Chicago car accident lawyer can help determine who is responsible for a crash caused by mechanical failure or road hazards. Victims may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.

Common Injuries in Freeway Crashes

Freeway accidents happen at high speeds, often leading to severe harm. Victims may face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. A Chicago car accident lawyer can help injured drivers and passengers recover fair compensation for their losses.

Severe and Catastrophic Injuries

High-speed auto accidents often result in life-altering injuries. Victims may suffer spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or multiple broken bones. These injuries require extensive medical procedures and rehabilitation.

Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis, limiting a victim’s ability to work or live independently. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can lead to memory loss, personality changes, and cognitive issues. Broken bones may take months to heal, and some require surgery.

Victims of motor vehicle accidents with catastrophic injuries may need lifelong medical care. A Chicago car accident attorney can help them seek fair compensation for ongoing treatment, home modifications, and lost income.

Psychological Impact of Freeway Accidents

A car accident claim is not just about physical injuries. Many victims suffer from emotional trauma after a car wreck. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common after serious car accidents in Chicago.

Some victims develop a fear of driving or riding in cars. Flashbacks and nightmares can make it hard to return to normal life. Those who lose loved ones in freeway crashes may experience deep grief and emotional distress.

A personal injury claim can include compensation for emotional suffering. Therapy, counseling, and medication may be necessary to help victims recover. A Chicago car accident attorney can ensure that both physical and emotional damages are considered when seeking a car accident claim worth pursuing.

Determining Liability in a Freeway Crash

Determining liability in a freeway crash

Establishing fault in a motor vehicle accident on the freeway can be complex. High speeds, multiple vehicles, and sudden lane changes make it harder to determine who caused the crash. Insurance companies often try to shift blame to reduce payouts, making it essential to gather strong evidence.

A Chicago car accident lawyer can investigate the crash, collect witness statements, and review traffic camera footage. Proving liability is key to recovering fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Who Can Be Held Responsible?

Several parties may be liable in a car accident claim involving a freeway crash. The responsible party depends on the cause of the accident.

A negligent driver is often at fault. Speeding, reckless driving, or failing to follow traffic laws can make a driver responsible for a car crash. A driver who causes a collision while texting or under the influence can be held accountable in a car accident lawsuit.

Sometimes, road conditions contribute to a car wreck. If a freeway has large potholes, missing signs, or improper construction zones, the city or state may be responsible. Filing a personal injury claim against a government agency requires strong evidence and legal guidance.

A vehicle manufacturer may be liable if a mechanical failure, such as brake failure or a tire blowout, caused the crash. In these cases, a Chicago car accident attorney can help victims seek compensation from the company responsible for the defective part.

Challenges in Proving Fault in Freeway Accidents

  • Multiple Vehicles Involved – Freeway crashes often involve several cars, making it harder to pinpoint who is at fault.
  • Lack of Witnesses – With fast-moving traffic, it can be difficult to find reliable eyewitnesses to confirm what happened.
  • Insurance Company Disputes – The auto insurance company may try to deny claims or shift blame to another driver.
  • Weather Conditions – If bad weather plays a role, proving negligence becomes more difficult.
  • Hit-and-Run Cases – If a driver flees the scene, tracking them down requires police reports and surveillance footage.

Proving fault in a car accident lawsuit requires a thorough investigation. A Chicago car accident attorney can gather evidence, speak to experts, and negotiate with the insurance company to help victims recover compensation.

How a Chicago Freeway Crash Lawyer Can Help

Handling a car accident claim alone can be overwhelming. Here’s how a Chicago freeway crash lawyer can assist you:

Investigating the Accident

A strong car accident claim begins with a thorough investigation. A Chicago car accident attorney collects police reports, interviews witnesses, and examines traffic camera footage. They also work with accident reconstruction experts to determine how the car crash happened.

Insurance companies often try to shift blame, especially in auto accidents involving multiple vehicles. A lawyer ensures the facts are clear and presents solid evidence to prove the other driver was at fault. If necessary, they can subpoena records, such as cell phone data, to show if distracted driving played a role in the crash.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with an insurance company after a car wreck can be frustrating. Insurers often delay claims, dispute injuries, or offer low settlements. An experienced Chicago car accident lawyer knows how to handle these tactics and push for the maximum payout.

A lawyer gathers medical records, proof of lost wages, and repair estimates to support the claim. They negotiate aggressively to ensure victims receive enough compensation to cover medical bills, rehabilitation, and other damages. If the auto insurance company refuses to offer a fair amount, the lawyer can prepare for trial.

Filing a Lawsuit If Necessary

If settlement talks fail, filing a car accident lawsuit may be the best option. A Chicago car accident attorney guides clients through the legal process, filing the necessary paperwork and representing them in court.

During the trial, the lawyer presents evidence, questions witnesses, and argues for the compensation the victim deserves. Whether through a personal injury claim or a court verdict, the goal is to secure financial relief for the injured party.

Victims should not have to handle legal battles alone while recovering from a car crash. A qualified lawyer fights for their rights and ensures they receive the compensation they need to move forward.

Compensation Available for Freeway Accident Victims

Compensation available for freeway accident victims

Victims of car accidents in Chicago often face high hospital bills, lost wages, and ongoing pain. A car accident claim can help recover financial losses caused by the crash.

Some types of compensation available for freeway accident victims include:

Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs

Medical bills after a motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming. Emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatments add up quickly. Victims may also need physical therapy, medication, and assistive devices for long-term recovery.

A Chicago car accident attorney gathers medical records and treatment plans to prove the full extent of these costs. Compensation can cover both past and future medical bills, ensuring victims receive proper care without financial strain.

Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity

Serious auto accidents often force victims to miss work. Some may be unable to return to their previous job due to lasting injuries. A car accident claim can include lost income and reduced earning potential.

Victims may recover compensation for wages lost during recovery, as well as future earnings if they cannot work at full capacity. A Chicago car accident lawyer works with financial experts to calculate these losses and fight for fair compensation.

Pain and Suffering Damages

A personal injury claim can also include non-economic damages. Pain, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of life affect many car accident victims long after the crash. Anxiety, depression, and PTSD are common after serious freeway accidents.

Compensation for pain and suffering considers the severity of injuries and their long-term consequences. A Chicago car accident attorney presents medical evidence, psychological evaluations, and expert testimony to support these claims.

Steps to Take After a Freeway Crash in Chicago

A motor vehicle accident can be overwhelming. Knowing what to do after a crash can protect your health, strengthen your car accident claim, and help you recover compensation. Taking the right steps at the accident scene and in the following days can make a difference in your case.

Immediate Actions at the Scene

After a car crash, safety comes first. If possible, move to a safe spot away from traffic. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately. Even minor accidents should be reported to the police. A car accident claim often relies on an official accident report.

If you can, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions. Get contact information from witnesses. Their statements can help prove who was at fault. Exchange details with the other driver, including their auto insurance company and license number.

Avoid admitting fault or apologizing. Anything you say could be used against you in a car accident lawsuit. Instead, stick to the facts when speaking to the police and other drivers.

Seeking Medical Attention

Even if injuries seem minor, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, do not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation creates a record of your injuries, which is important for your personal injury claim.

Delaying medical treatment can hurt your case. The insurance company may argue that your injuries are not serious or were caused by something else. Keep copies of medical records, prescriptions, and treatment plans. These documents help prove the impact of the car wreck on your health.

Consulting a Freeway Crash Lawyer

After getting medical care, contact a Chicago car accident attorney. A lawyer can review your case, explain your rights, and handle negotiations with the insurance company. They gather evidence, calculate damages, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Insurance companies often try to settle for less than a claim is worth. A car crash attorney fights to recover full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. If necessary, they can file a car accident lawsuit and take your case to court.

Time limits apply to car accident claims in Illinois. Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible ensures you do not miss important deadlines.

FAQs

If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may have a valid Chicago car accident claim. Common causes include speeding, distracted driving, or reckless behavior. A lawyer can review the details of your case, gather evidence, and determine if you can seek compensation for car accident injuries, medical costs, and lost wages.

The value of a car accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your car accident injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. More serious injuries often lead to higher compensation. An experienced car accident attorney can assess your damages and negotiate for the best possible settlement.

It is best to speak with a Chicago car accident attorney before talking to the insurance company. Insurance adjusters may try to reduce your claim or get you to settle for less than you deserve. A lawyer protects your rights and handles all communication to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you are found to be less than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your level of responsibility. A knowledgeable car accident attorney can gather evidence, challenge false claims, and fight to establish the other driver’s liability.

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident claim is typically two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Contact a Chicago car accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your case.

Call Our Chicago Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Call our Chicago car accident lawyer for a free case consultation

A freeway crash can leave you with car accident injuries, expensive medical bills, and lost income. Handling a Chicago car accident claim on your own can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with an insurance company that tries to minimize your compensation. You need legal support to protect your rights and secure the financial recovery you deserve.

At Conboy Law Injury & Medical Malpractice Lawyers, our team of Chicago personal injury lawyers has extensive experience representing accident victims. An experienced car accident lawyer from our law firm will investigate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. If necessary, we will take your case to court to fight for maximum compensation.

We offer a free consultation to review your case and discuss your legal options. There are no upfront fees, and you only pay if we win. Contact us today to speak with a Chicago car accident lawyer and take the first step toward justice.

Joseph Conboy
Founding Attorney

Joseph M. Conboy, founder of Conboy Law, represents victims of catastrophic injuries and wrongful death, securing numerous multi-million-dollar results. Recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star (2019–2022), he is a member of the American Association for Justice and Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. Mr. Conboy earned his J.D. from DePaul University and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Colorado.

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