Harrisburg, IL Car Accident Attorney

Car accident attorney in Harrisburg, IL. After you or a loved one is seriously injured in a car accident another driver caused, you need a car accident attorney can get you the damages you deserve and hold the negligent driver or company responsible for the harm they have caused. In other words, you need the Harrisburg, IL car accident lawyers of Burger Law. Call (314) 500-HURT now to speak to a Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney of Burger Law about your claim at no obligation.

If you were injured in a car accident in Harrisburg, IL see how much your claim may be worth by filling out our free personal injury calculator.

The Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney team at Burger Law are prepared to fight for your Harrisburg, IL car accident case and demand the responsible party to take accountability for their harmful actions. Our firm has demonstrated our skill time and time again by winning hundreds of car accident and other personal injury cases throughout the Harrisburg, IL area and across the country, arguing some of the most difficult car accident cases and winning over $200 million for our deserving clients. Find out how the Harrisburg, IL car accident lawyers of Burger Law can add value to your case and aid in your recovery with a complimentary consultation. When you are ready to take action and begin winning your car accident case us today at (314) 500-HURT or contact us now.

Our Harrisburg, IL car accident attorneys deliver great compensation in a variety of car accident claims, such as:

• Pedestrian Accidents
• Bicycle Accidents
• Hit and Run
• Drunk Driving
• Distracted Driving
• Texting and Driving
• Speeding Accidents
• Fatal Car Crash
• Head-On Collisions
• Rear-Ended
• Multi-Vehicle Accidents
• Intersection Accidents
• Road Construction Accidents
• Carpool Accidents
• Backup Accident
• Whiplash Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Underinsured Motorist Claims
• Uninsured Motorist Claims
• Phantom Motorist Claims

Why Hire a Car Accident Attorney in Harrisburg, IL?

Each car accident is different. For many, a car accident is an upsetting event that introduces sudden stress. Any time you are injured in a car accident that was not your fault, you are entitled to financial compensation from the person who caused you harm and their insurance company. However, to receive the compensation you are rightfully owed, you may require the help of a good car accident attorney to fight for you.

While some minor car accidents can be resolved successfully without the use of an auto accident attorney, there are certain factors that call for legal representation. It is important that you have a car accident attorney to fight on your behalf if the following applies to your case:

• You sustained serious injuries in a car accident
• The insurance company’s offer does not come close to fairly compensating you
• The other driver does not have insurance or enough insurance to cover your damages
• You need help with the insurance and legal process
• The negligent driver disputes liability or fault in the accident
• You are dealing with complex legal issues, such as those involving multiple parties, hit and run accident or were injured by a commercial vehicle

Resources to Help With Your Harrisburg, IL Car Accident Claim

At Burger Law, we believe that our role as your personal injury law firm is more than simply arguing your case and negotiating with the insurance company; we have also taken it upon ourselves to provide free materials and resources to people injured in car accidents to to help them through their injury claims. Burger Law has published books on car accident and personal injury cases, is active on our Youtube channel and is always available to answer questions.

Other Resources

• Illinois Personal Injury Resources
• How a Lawsuit Works
• Legal Glossary for Personal Injury Claims
• Legal Podcasts
• Legal Videos About Car Accidents
• Car Accident Blog

Why Choose Burger Law For Your Harrisburg, IL Car Accident Claim

When you are facing a legal issue, it is imperative to choose the best law firm to fight for you. Burger Law is a reputed and experienced law firm that has been fiercely fighting for the injured for more than 30 years. Below are some of the reasons why you should choose Burger Law for your case.

Award-Winning Attorneys Know How to Win

To ensure you get full compensation, you need to put your case in the capable hands of a car accident attorney who has earned the respect of the Harrisburg, IL legal community and knows how to get results. In order to gauge the abilities of an injury law firm, you need to look at their previous victories, and their reputation among their clients and peers. The many awards, honors and accolades Burger Law has received from our peers include:

• Martindale-Hubbell Award — AV Preeminent® Rated by Martindale-Hubbell® from NexisLexis® – a remarkable achievement awarded to not more than 5 percent of all attorneys in the U.S.
• Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocate Honor — Members of the Million and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an honor only given to 1 percent of attorneys in the United States.
• Top 100 Trial Lawyers Honor — Selected to the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers, an invitation-only award that is made up of the most qualified attorneys in each state.
• Board Certified By the National Board of Trial Advocacy — Board certified in Civil Trial Advocacy and Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. Less than 4 percent of all practicing attorneys are certified by an ABA accredited certification board.

Empathetic and Knowledgeable Attorneys

At Burger Law, we know that being injured through another’s negligence is stressful and overwhelming. That is why we strive to build personal relationships with our clients. With more than 30 years of experience, our attorneys are willing to take on the tough cases other law firms are not. We are dedicated to helping our clients recovery both physically and financially, and we work faithfully to ensure they do. You need to focus on healing; trust in us to stand up to the insurance company.

Customized Approach

At Burger Law, we know that no two clients or cases are alike. That is why we take a personalized approach to each case. Our attorneys explain the legal process to you and keep in constant contact so you know the status of your claim.

Dedication to Excellence

At Burger Law, we are dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We have high ethical standards for the way we handle cases and the way we treat our clients. We pursue every possible avenue to get you the compensation you deserve.

Our Ratings and Results

Any car accident attorney can say they know how to handle your case, but having a demonstrated track record of success is another matter entirely. We are one of the most- and best-reviewed law firms, with a 4.9 rating from over 480 reviews. You can also check out our client testimonials and case results.

Discuss your case for free with an car accident attorney in Harrisburg, IL now at (314) 500-HURT, or read on below to find out more about car accident claims and how Burger Law can help.

How Do You Determine Liability in Car Accident in Harrisburg, IL?

Determining liability in a car accident is the first step toward getting compensation. Fault comes down to proving the five elements of negligence:

1. Duty of care — That the other driver had a responsibility to keep you safe. Under Illinois Law, all drivers owe all others on the road “due care.”
2. Breach of duty — That they neglected their obligation. Did they run a red light or drive drunk?
3. Cause in fact — That the accident directly led to your injury. For example, you were rear ended and that gave you a whiplash injury.
4. Proximate cause — That their negligence caused the crash. Were you rear ended because a driver was tailgating, or because a manufacturer was negligent and their brakes were not working.
5. Damages — That you sustained losses because of the injuries. Do you have medical bills, lost wages and emotional anguish you can make a claim for?

Fault can be determined through a number of factors. In some cases, the other driver will admit that they are to blame, but too often negligent drivers try to avoid being held accountable for what they did. After an accident, police officers will write a report explaining what they believe happened. Then, insurance adjusters will review the police report and other evidence to assign fault. While this is part of an adjuster’s job, their real job is to save their insurance company money. That means they may deny that it was the other driver’s fault, even if that is demonstrably false.

When that happens, you need to hire a car accident attorney to ensure that you are treated fairly. The attorney will obtain more evidence, take depositions of all parties involved, and hire crash experts to interpret photographs and the damage to both vehicles to show how the accident occurred. Then they will compile a settlement demand letter to the insurance company.

If the insurance company remains firm, your claim might require a mediation, where a neutral third party tries to help both parties find common ground. If that fails, your car accident attorney can take your claim to trial and take your claim to trial.

The Illinois Comparative Negligence Rule

In many states, including Illinois, adjusters, lawyers and juries can apply the comparative negligence or comparative fault rule to personal injury claims. In comparative fault, you can recover for the percentage of the accident that is not your fault.

Meaning, if your damages total $100,000 but you share 30 percent of the fault for your accident, you will receive $70,000. Keep in mind that 735 ILCS 5/2-1116 states that:

The plaintiff shall be barred from recovering damages if the trier of fact finds that the contributory fault on the part of the plaintiff is more than 50 percent of the proximate cause of the injury or damage for which recovery is sought.

Meaning, if you share more of the blame than the other party, you cannot make a recovery in Harrisburg, IL.

Catastrophic Injuries in Harrisburg, IL Car Accidents

Catastrophic injuries in car accidents have devastating consequences for your life, causing long-term physical, mental and financial consequences. Some common examples of serious injuries in car accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — This can occur when the the brain twists inside of the skull, causing damage to the brain. Symptoms can range from mild, such as a headache or temporarily blurry vision, to significant, such as loss of consciousness or permanent dysfunction.
• Spinal cord injuries — These can occur when the spinal cord is damaged, resulting in loss of mobility or feeling in the arms, legs or other parts of the body. In severe cases, they can cause paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Fractures — Fractures can often heal well, but cause months or years of pain and discomfort.
• Internal injuries — These can include bleeding or other injuries to the internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, liver and others, and require prompt medical attention in order not to be deadly.
• Burns — Burns can occur from the ignition of fuel or from contact with hot surfaces, such as a vehicle’s engine or exhaust system. They can cause significant pain and disfigurement.

At Burger Law, we know how serious injuries can completely upend your life. But, with the help of Burger Law, you can find justice, recognition and a financial recovery. Call us immediately to discuss your case at (314) 500-HURT.

What is the Car Accident Claim Process in Harrisburg, IL?

The car accident claim process can be stressful and time-consuming, and many of our Harrisburg, IL clients do not know what to expect when making a claim. While the specifics of each injury and accident are different, the personal injury claims process usually stays pretty consistent:

• Gathering evidence at the scene — The first step you need to take is to obtain as much evidence as you can, including the names and contact information of the drivers involved, insurance information and the names and contact information of any witnesses. Take photos of the vehicles involved and the scene of the accident.
• Getting medical attention — While you obviously need to do this to ensure your physical recovery, you cannot make a claim for an injury if there is no documentation of that injury. Save all medical records, and get every kind of treatment you need to. The higher your medical bills, the more you will receive in compensation. If you do not go to the emergency room or urgent care, make an appointment with your general practitioner for a day or two after the accident.
• Reporting the accident — If you did not call police at the time of the accident, you should file a police report in the following days. Report the accident to both insurance companies – you usually have to do so within 30 days.
• Hiring a car accident attorney — Any time you are injured in a car accident, you need to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. If your injuries were minor and you did not lose much time from work, you might not need a lawyer to get fair compensation. Higher damages almost always require an attorney to get fair compensation. A good lawyer will be honest with you about how they can help your claim and how much more money they can get you.As we charge a contingency fee, meaning we take a percentage of your recovery as our fees and only get paid after we win, we have no reason to take on your claim unless we think we can get you significantly more money.
• Investigation and documentation — Your attorney will obtain and evaluate the evidence needed to prove your car accident claim while you focus on healing and medical treatment. They will find out if there are multiple parties you can make a claim against or if there is more insurance coverage available if your damages exceed the policy limits.During this phase, you should keep a journal of how your injuries are affecting you. In addition to your medical expenses, keep records of any pain relievers or out-of-pocket expenses, and the lost wages you have from time spent recovering.
• Settlement demand and negotiations — Once your attorney has calculated the amount of compensation you are owed, they will send a settlement demand letter to the insurance adjuster, explaining how their policyholder was responsible for the accident, and insisting on maximum compensation. The insurance company will likely respond with a lower offer, but your Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney will not agree to anything but the best possible results.
• Filing a lawsuit — If the insurance adjuster will not be fair in negotiations, your attorney will file a lawsuit to seek compensation at trial. Burger Law is more aggressive than most law firms when it comes to filing suit; the insurance company to know that we mean business. Sometimes, the threat of a lawsuit from experienced trial attorneys is enough to get the insurance adjuster to finally offer a fair settlement.
• Continued negotiations, mediation and pre-trial — Filing a lawsuit does not mean negotiations are off the table. We always prefer to get our clients their compensation as quickly as possible, so we will continue negotiating and in the hopes of avoiding a trial.While this is going on, we will also start the pre-trial “discovery phase.” In discovery, both sides share what evidence they will use at trial.
• The trial — The Bureau of Justice Statistics reported in 2005 that only four percent of personal injury cases go to trial. Still, on the off chance you do go to trial, your car accident attorney will fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury. A trial has six steps:
  1. Voir dire, or jury selection
  2. Opening statements
  3. Testimony and cross-examination
  4. Closing arguments
  5. Jury instruction
  6. Jury deliberation and verdict

  In a jury trial, the jury will follow the judge’s instructions to determine a) if the other party is liable for your injuries, and b) the total extent of your damages in a dollar amount.

The car accident claim process can be complex and time-consuming, but an experienced car accident attorney can help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. Whether we get you a settlement quickly or have to pursue intense litigation, when you hire a Burger Law Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney, you will get complete dedication to your recover.

Mistakes to Avoid in Your Harrisburg, IL Car Accident Claim

While lawyers can do a great deal to help your claim, you have to be careful not to hurt it. Making mistakes in a car accident claim can jeopardize your ability to get a full recovery. Here are some common mistakes to avoid in your car accident claim:

• Failing to seek prompt medical attention — It is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident, even if you do not feel like you are seriously injured. Some injuries may not become apparent until days or even weeks after the accident. If you wait too long to get medical treatment, the insurance company may say your injuries were caused by something else, or cannot be that bad if you waited so long.If you do not seek medical attention at all, you will not have documentation of your injuries and expenses, and likely will not be able to make a claim.
• Failing to gather evidence at the scene — It is understandable to be nervous or shell-shocked after an accident, but try to keep a cool head and remember to document what you can. You will not be able to get certain evidence like pictures of the surrounding area and eyewitness contact info later on. You want as much evidence possible to help in your claim.
• Giving recorded statements to the insurance company — Be cautious about giving recorded statements to the insurance company, as these statements can be used against you later. Instead, it is best to consult with an experienced car accident attorney before providing any statements to the insurance company. When you first report the accident, tell them what happened in a concise manner. After that, let your attorney handle communication with them, and only give a recorded statement after being prepped bu your attorney.
• Accepting a quick settlement offer — Insurance companies may offer you a quick settlement in order to resolve your claim quickly and cheaply. However, this settlement will likely be a lowball offer. The insurance adjuster may try to say they cannot or will not offer more – do not believe them until you speak to an attorney.
• Failing to keep records — Keeping accurate records of all expenses related to your accident, including medical bills, lost wages and other damages, is crucial. This will help ensure that you receive full compensation for all of your damages. You can keep a journal detailing how your injuries affect you physically and emotionally to keep records of your non-economic damages.
• Posting on social media — It is natural in today’s world to want to share life events with the online community, but do not post anything about your injuries or what you have been doing on social media. The insurance company will be looking at your accounts and take note of anything they can use against you. If you say your injuries make walking painful, but post pictures of you and your friends at a bowling alley, it may undermine your claim.
• Not calling an experienced car accident attorney — An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. Our consultations are free, so there is no risk in calling us to look over your claim. Speak to an experienced and knowledgeable Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney now at (314) 500-HURT.

How Much Compensation Should I Expect in a Car Accident Settlement in Harrisburg, IL?

The amount of compensation you can expect in a car accident claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries and how they have affected your life.

Typically, compensation in a car accident claim can include:

• Medical expenses — This can include costs for hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation and ongoing medical treatment.
• Lost wages — If you have been unable to work as a result of your injuries, you deserve compensation for lost income and benefits.
• Out-of-pocket expenses — This can include compensation for transportation to and from medical appointments, or having to hire help to do household chores.
• Non-economic damages — This is compensation for the physical and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of the accident, as well as permanent disability, scarring or loss of enjoyment of life.

It is important to note that each car accident is unique and the compensation you can receive will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. It will also depend on the skill and tenacity of your Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney. Those at Burger Law will demand you get 100 percent of the compensation you deserve.

Other cases we handle in Harrisburg, IL include:

• Survival Action Lawyer in Illinois
• Truck Crash Lawyers in Illinois
• Wrongful Death Lawyers in Illinois
• Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer in Illinois

HIRE BURGER LAW

Call to Car Accident Attorney in Harrisburg, IL Today

We work hard to keep you informed and demand that the negligent driver’s insurance company pays out fairly so that you can rest assured that you have lawyers on your case who care about the outcome. We work relentlessly to get you all the compensation to which you are entitled and to hold the negligent driver responsible for their actions. The Harrisburg, IL car accident attorneys of Burger Law are tough on insurance companies because you deserve the financial relief that will help make you and your family whole again.

If you or someone you know were hurt or killed in a car accident caused by someone else, you deserve payment. To get the complete damages you are owed, you must have a talented and dedicated Harrisburg, IL car accident attorney from Burger Law dedicated to your recovery. Begin right away by speaking to a real lawyer about your case for free in a complimentary, no-obligation consultation. Give us a call today at 314-648-8348 or send us a message now.

Client Reviews

What our clients are saying about us

Juanita Matthews

Year of 2023

This law firm is absolutely amazing. They took on my case, when nobody else would! They fought hard for me when it seemed there was no hope. They kept me informed and always asked for my input before making decisions on my case. Gary puts himself into every case unlike most law firm owners. Gary and his team really care about every one of their clients, and fights hard to get you a fair settlement. They actually won my case out of court, and then reduced my fees to make sure I could get my car fixed and be able to get back to some normality. I would recommend Burger Law over and above any other firm! If you go somewhere else you aren’t getting the best!

Shaunda S.

7 months ago

I am very happy with the staff at Burger Law. I mostly worked with Michael Sheldon, and he did an amazing job. I trusted him completely with my case, and he did not disappoint. I would definitely recommend this team if your ever in need of good attorneys.

Emelia M.

3 months ago

Burger Law Firm is fantastic. Laura and Genevieve were so amazing and helpful throughout the entire process. They helped me with my personal injury case every step of the way and succeeded at getting me the results I desired.

Helen L.

a year ago

We had a great experience with Burger Law for representing us after a serious car accident. Truly impressed by how professional and supportive the entire team is. And, many thanks to Genavieve and Laura – you are amazing!

Judy M.

a year ago

They did an amazing job on my case! Communication with them was great!!! Kept me informed and in the loop with everything that was going on!!! Will definitely be the 1st ones I’ll call if ever I’m in another accident!!! Thank you very much!!!

Chelsea C.

5 months ago

Let me tell you something about Burger Law.. they are so attentive and kind. Jennifer is my savior!! I love the whole team!!! They are truly a miracle team!! I appreciate their business and would recommend it to others.

David D.

2 months ago

Absolutely the best law firm in the St. Louis area. No matter the size of your case you are treated as if you are the only client on the roster. Will explain anything thoroughly and they work around your availability. Very impressed and appreciative of the service.

Lisa B.

11 months ago

Gary and Casey took great care of me for 2.5 years as my lawsuit was finally settled. I feel he helped me achieve justice for me and my 4 children after their father died from medical malpractice and neglect. Thanks to Gary, my kids now have a great start to their college and adult lives. Thank you Gary and Casey, for fighting for us so hard at our most trying and difficult time in our lives thus far. Love and God bless from my family to yours!

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