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Caraway](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/matthew-h-caraway/) - [Phillip G. Palmer Jr.](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/phillip-palmer-jr/) - [Auto Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/) - [Aggressive Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/aggressive-driving-accidents/) - [Auto Accident FAQs](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) - [Car Passenger Injuries](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/car-accident-passenger-injuries/) - [Distracted Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/distracted-driving-accident-attorney/) - [Drunk Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/drunk-driving-accidents/) - [Texting Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/texting-and-driving-accidents/) - [Uninsured Motorists](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/uninsured-motorists/) - [Areas Of Practice](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/) - [Contact Us](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) - [Results](https://scmitchell.com/results/) - [Testimonials](https://scmitchell.com/testimonials/) - [Blog](https://scmitchell.com/blog/) - [Resources](https://scmitchell.com/resources/) [View Our Locations](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) **Follow Us** Get Your Free Consultation – No Fee Unless We Win\! - [Results](https://scmitchell.com/results/) - [Testimonials](https://scmitchell.com/testimonials/) - [Blog](https://scmitchell.com/blog/) - [Resources](https://scmitchell.com/resources/) [618-932-2772](tel:6189322772) [](https://scmitchell.com/ "Sam C. Mitchell and Associates") - [Home](https://scmitchell.com/) - [About Us](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/) - [Community Involvement](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/community-involvement/) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/frequently-asked-questions/) - [Firm Videos](https://scmitchell.com/videos/) - [Areas We Serve](https://scmitchell.com/proudly-serving/) - [Picking the Right Attorney](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/picking-the-right-attorney/) - [When Meeting with Your Attorney](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/when-meeting-with-your-attorney/) - [What to Expect](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/what-to-expect/) - [Understanding the Law](https://scmitchell.com/about-us/understanding-the-law/) - [Our Attorneys](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/) - [Sam C. Mitchell](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/sam-c-mitchell/) - [Lance P. Brown](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/lance-p-brown/) - [Matthew H. Caraway](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/matthew-h-caraway/) - [Phillip G. Palmer Jr.](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/phillip-palmer-jr/) - [Auto Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/) - [Aggressive Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/aggressive-driving-accidents/) - [Auto Accident FAQs](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) - [Car Passenger Injuries](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/car-accident-passenger-injuries/) - [Distracted Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/distracted-driving-accident-attorney/) - [Drunk Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/drunk-driving-accidents/) - [Texting Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/texting-and-driving-accidents/) - [Uninsured Motorists](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/uninsured-motorists/) - [Areas Of Practice](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/) - [Contact Us](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) [618-932-2772](tel:6189322772) [](https://scmitchell.com/) Auto Accidents   # Southern Illinois Auto Accident Attorney Injured in a Car Accident in Illinois? Stop, Look & Listen As a child, you may have been told to stop, look, and listen before you cross a street. The same advice applies to preventing [auto accidents in Illinois](https://scmitchell.com/6-delayed-car-crash-symptoms-not-to-ignore/). If you or your loved one has been injured in an auto or car accident, call our team today\! When another vehicle strikes your vehicle, you need to stop and make sure you are okay. If not, do not move. Call for help and wait for it to arrive. If you can get out of your vehicle, look around to [see who might have caused the auto accident](https://scmitchell.com/what-to-do-after-you-have-been-in-a-car-accident/) and check for any witnesses. Then, ask for their names, addresses, and phone numbers. Listen to what they tell you and take notes if you can. Exchange insurance information with the other driver but do not make any statements about how you feel or the cause of the accident except to medical personnel or police officers who come to the scene to investigate. If you follow this advice, and [speak with our dedicated Southern Illinois auto accident attorneys](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/), you can be your own best witness when it comes time to file your claim or a lawsuit. We are proud to be among the [highest-rated auto and car accident law firms in all of Illinois\!](https://maps.app.goo.gl/a2neGhWKn6mrAKBL9) > **[Contact us](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) today at **[(618) 932-2772](<tel:(618) 932-2772>)**to request a free consultation.** ## Reasons to Hire a Lawyer for Your Car Accident Case If a negligent driver has hit you, you have already been the victim once. However, if you attempt to negotiate with insurance companies after your crash on your own, chances are good. You will end up being the victim twice. [A car accident lawyer representing Southern Illinois](https://scmitchell.com/proudly-serving/) can provide a wide range of services to protect your rights and maximize your eligible compensation after an accident. **Some of the many services an auto accident attorney can provide include:** - Thoroughly investigating the [cause of your accident](https://scmitchell.com/common-types-of-car-crashes/) - Collecting and analyzing evidence relevant to your case such as police reports, photographs of the scene, eyewitness testimony, vehicle “black box” data, and cell phone records - Consulting with experts from a variety of fields, including accident reconstruction, engineering, medical care, and life-care planning professionals - Closely examining the terms of all insurance policies applicable to your case - Ensuring all documents are completed and filed on time - Aggressively negotiating with the involved insurance companies on your behalf - Presenting a compelling case to the court if litigation is required - Handling any health care liens that may be attached to your monetary award to ensure you receive the amount you need to cover your losses in full ## How Long Do You Have to File a Claim? [Car accident lawsuits](https://scmitchell.com/category/auto-accidents/) are subject to a “statute of limitations” which places a hard deadline on how long you have to take legal action. **In Illinois, personal injury lawsuits related to car accidents must be filed within two years of the date of your collision.** Property damage lawsuits, such as those involving damage to your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the crash, must be filed within five years. Filing a claim after these deadlines have expired will almost certainly result in the court refusing to hear your case, thereby permanently preventing you from pursuing further damages. It is important to remember that insurance claims have a completely different timeline and must generally be filed with either your insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurer within a few days or weeks of the crash to be eligible for coverage. Since these deadlines can have such a massive impact on your ability to recover compensation, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer in Illinois right away to determine the best course of action. ### Comparative Fault Explained Illinois follows a traditional fault-based system for car accidents, [which allows injured car accident victims to seek compensation from the at-fault driver](https://scmitchell.com/who-pays-the-medical-bills-in-a-car-wreck/). With that being said, your eligible compensation will be reduced if you are found to be partially responsible for the collision. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault for the crash, you will not be able to recover any damages. For example, if a jury were to find you 25% at fault for a crash, you would only be able to recover 75% of your claimed damages. This means that if you suffered \$20,000 in damages, you would only be eligible to recover \$15,000. Insurance companies understand these rules well and will often attempt to unfairly blame you for a crash to minimize their financial liability. Having a skilled attorney by your side can help ensure you are treated fairly and maximize your chances of securing the level of compensation you deserve. ## How Much Is Your Car Accident Case Worth in Southern Illinois? Every auto accident is unique; therefore, every auto accident claim will be approached differently and have a different value. The value of your case will depend on a variety of factors and cannot be determined without analyzing evidence regarding your injuries, the long-term effects of your injuries, the amount of income you lose due to your injuries, the cost of your medical treatments, the level of damage to your vehicle, and the events leading up to and immediately following your collision. Car accident claims involving [severe injuries](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/catastrophic-injuries/), such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic injuries tend to have the highest value. [It is important to discuss your case with a skilled auto accident attorney](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) to get a more accurate representation of your eligible compensation. ### I-57 Car Accident Attorneys: Local & Dependable The Interstate 57 that runs north-to-south in Illinois, starting in Chicago, sees an inordinate amount of car accidents each year. As a major highway and the longest in Illinois, the I-57 has commuters, commercial trucks, and construction on it at essentially all times and in large numbers. The odds of encountering a negligent driver on this busy freeway are, unfortunately, high. In fact, a recent study found that it was the single-most dangerous highway in Illinois, with more than a dozen deaths along it each year. (You can learn more about the study by [clicking here](https://www.wsiltv.com/news/i-57-named-deadliest-highway-in-illinois/article_027f8977-ff71-55ab-a4e9-64aa3964eb26.html) and viewing a WSIL-3 ABC news report.) [If you get hurt in an auto accident along the I-57](https://scmitchell.com/illinois-i-57-accidents-386-miles-of-dangerous-d/), know you can count on our lawyers for help. We are local and dependable, and we genuinely care about your future and well-being because we see you not as a case number, but as a friend in need. ### Common Injuries from Auto Accidents in Southern Illinois​   Any injury you may suffer as a result of a car accident should be treated by a doctor. Some injuries may at first appear to be minor but could worsen if left untreated. You should seek medical attention immediately if you have any aches or pains resulting from an accident. In addition to treating your injuries, seeing a doctor provides you with medical records that may be valuable if you decide to pursue an auto accident lawsuit from an injury in Illinois. **Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries of various degrees of severity. Here are some typical injuries:** - **Brain Injuries:** These injuries occur from the force of another object hitting your head or the immediate deceleration and acceleration of the brain. - **Upper limbs:** Fingers, hands, arms, and shoulders can suffer lacerations, fractures, and broken bones as a result of collision impact. Pain may be permanent and physical therapy and surgery may be required. - **Lower limbs:** Legs, hips, feet, toes, ankles, and knees may be damaged in an automobile accident. Bones may be broken or fractured, nerves can be damaged, and surgery may be required, as well as physical therapy. - **Internal organs:** The impact and speed of a collision can also damage internal organs. Kidneys, liver, spleen, stomach, heart, and lungs can be jostled, traumatized, and damaged during a crash. The ribcage and sternum can also be fractured or broken. - **Neck injuries:** The most common example of a neck injury in Illinois is whiplash. It is often caused by rear-end accidents and results in damaged ligaments, nerves, and tissue, limiting the victim’s movement of their neck and causing pain. While whiplash is often a temporary condition, it can also be permanent. Getting injured can cause physical and emotional pain, but you should never have doubts about seeking legal advice. [A trained Southern Illinois personal injury lawyer can help you pursue your claim](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/) and work to receive compensation for your medical bills. ### Take Care of Yourself After an Auto Crash If you were injured in an auto accident in Illinois, whether it be on a busy highway like I-57 or a city street, this is no time to be brave or stoic. If someone, especially a police officer, suggests that you need to go an emergency room, do it. Have your auto accident injuries checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. If the doctor prescribes medication or follow-up treatment, get it. Your medical bills, your time off from work, your pain and suffering, and your disability are [all part of your personal injury case](https://scmitchell.com/covid-19-and-personal-injury-cases/). **Documentation is an extremely important part of building an automobile accident case. Make copies of the following items and give them to your car accident lawyer in Illinois:** - Medical bills - Prescriptions - Auto repair bills - Towing receipts - Rental or replacement vehicle costs - Your paycheck stubs Keep these records even if your own health or automobile insurance paid for them. You or your insurance company might be entitled to reimbursement. Likewise, you may be entitled to compensation for lost time from work even if you continue to be paid. You should not have to use your sick leave or vacation time to recover from an auto accident that someone else caused. ## Can I File A Car Accident Claim After Insurance Pays? Most insurance companies include in their settlement offers that no additional compensation, beyond the settlement amount, can be collected after an agreement is signed. This is true even if injuries become more serious in the following weeks and months following your accident, [as is common with injuries sustained in a car accident](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/car-accident-passenger-injuries/). If you have been offered a settlement, or if you have already signed one, call Sam C. Mitchell & Associates today to talk about your car case. ### Get a Good Car Accident Lawyer in Southern Illinois Insurance companies have auto attorneys to advise them regarding any claims. Make sure you also have a good, experienced, and reputable auto accident lawyer in Illinois to advise you. [The personal injury attorneys at Sam C. Mitchell & Associates work exclusively for people](https://scmitchell.com/questions-to-ask-when-hiring-a-personal-injury-lawyer/) injured in an auto accidents. They can help make sure that you get all of the compensation you are entitled to. > [**Contact**](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) our car accident attorneys in Southern Illinois at Sam C. Mitchell & Associates today by calling **[(618) 932-2772](<tel:(618) 932-2772>)** to begin your road to recovery now. #### Recommended Reading - [Auto Accident FAQs](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) - [Six Delayed Car Crash Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore](https://scmitchell.com/6-delayed-car-crash-symptoms-not-to-ignore/) - [Distracted Driving Awareness](https://scmitchell.com/april-is-distracted-driving-awareness-month/) - [Common Types of Car Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/common-types-of-car-crashes/) ### Hear from People We’ve Helped > ***5/5 stars*** *I have been in an accident previously and used Sam C. Mitchell & Associates so I knew the great service I would receive. They do it all for you, in my case you need all your energy focused on getting well. **–** **Teresa*** ### We’ve Helped Many - \$9,000,000.00 – Auto accident involving permanent injury to a mother and her unborn child - \$5,006,000.00 – Woman was severely injured in a car crash and her airbags failed to deploy in her vehicle - \$4,500,000.00 – Auto accident resulting in death and injury case ### Auto Accidents - [Aggressive Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/aggressive-driving-accidents/ "Aggressive Driving Accidents") - [Auto Accident FAQs](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/ "Auto Accident FAQs") - [Car Passenger Injuries](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/car-accident-passenger-injuries/ "Car Passenger Injuries") - [Distracted Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/distracted-driving-accident-attorney/ "Distracted Driving Accidents") - [Drunk Driving Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/drunk-driving-accidents/ "Drunk Driving Accidents") - [Texting Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/texting-and-driving-accidents/ "Texting Accidents") - [Uninsured Motorists](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/uninsured-motorists/ "Uninsured Motorists") ### Contact Our Firm ## Why You Can Trust Us The Right Firm Can Make the Difference   ### Free Initial Case Evaluations ### You Pay Nothing Unless We Win ### Over 3,700 Cases Handled ### Committed to Integrity Above All Else ### Over \$200 Million Recovered for Our Clients ### Over a Century of Combined Legal Experience 4\.5 [review us on]()  Carlene A. 14:59 10 Feb 26 I highly recommend this law firm.  Jeremy B. 21:27 26 Jan 26 Great at what they do if they can help they definitely will  Nellie P. 19:03 07 Feb 25 Phillip was the attorney on my son’s auto accident. Phillip done an excellent job of keeping us updated, taking care of what we asked for and getting my son what he wanted. Phillip dealt with all of the medical personnel so that we didn’t have to. I would recommend him to our family and friends if they were to ever be in a similar situation  Derek H. 21:39 06 Mar 24 After being injured in a commercial vehicle accident, my wife did a lot of research online searching for the best law firm. Lance Brown from Sam C Mitchell law office was the only one to call her back. We now know that it was meant to be. Lance was simply a Godsend for me and my family. He is so knowledgeable when it comes to the law. He will fight for what you rightfully deserve. Without him, we would have lost everything. He is an attorney who will call you right back, will keep you informed every step of the way, and is so personable. If you or a loved one has been injured, I would highly recommend giving Lance Brown a call\!  Erika L. 19:27 13 Dec 23 Wonderful to work with.  lewi\_33 18:54 17 May 23 I went to this firm after getting into a car accident early last year. My brother recommended them because they had helped my dadwhen he got into an accident a long time ago. They helped me deal with the insurance companies and my medical bills. They kept me well informedthroughout the entire process, and the peace of mind I got from knowing they were working on my case helped me focus on my recovery. In the endthey were able to ensure my bills were paid and put money in my pocket. I cannot thank Matt Caraway and Sam C. Mitchell & Associates enough for their hardwork on my case. Without it, I wouldn't have been able to get back on my feet as well as I have.  Dan G. 14:44 11 Apr 23 Going through an auto accident can be a very traumatic experience especially if significant injuries are involved. What impresses me with Sam C Mitchell and Associates is the way they help their clients through the process of dealing with things like medical bills and advocating strongly for their clients. I highly recommend this firm due to their excellent service\!  Cynthia P. 19:50 04 Feb 22 Good lawyers. Very helpful to work through all the details. Yes, I can recommend this business.  david S. 16:14 07 May 21 The while office is there for you through the entire process! great staff! I will recommend them to anyone who needs there services.  Brittany R. 06:59 11 Jan 21 Competent and professional\!  Ronda S. 17:01 01 Mar 20 The Best Honest up front attorney  Beatrice R. 01:01 17 Dec 19 Lance Brown was very professional providing representation on my behalf after an auto accident.He was always kind, helpful and patient with all of my concerns.He provided direction to all of my needs and questions.Recovery was far more than expected.I always refer others in need to this great Law Firm!Sam C. Mitchell & Associates are the best\!  Sherry S. 02:18 11 Dec 19 Professional and I would have given 5 stars, but the attorney I spoke with about my accident where vehicles were involved, he called one of the " vehicles" a phantom. It was then, I thought he didn't believe me. He also said that since it didn't happen in the store, however the design of the parking lot is also owned by the store. I guess you pay for what, that's why consultations are pro bono. But my broken clavicle and damaged rotator cuff has had me sitting on the bench. Plus the costs came out of my pocket  Jennifer B. 21:47 06 Nov 19 Appreciate all the help.  Jack W. 04:20 07 Oct 19 Great people  sherina 10:27 15 May 19 I wanted to take a few minutes to thank attorney Sam, Mitchell. A few months back, I found myself in the position where I needed to change counsel for a multitude of reasons which I articulated to Sam. I won't go into it here. Unfortuanetly Sam couldnt take my case for geographical reasons.Sam would always return my calls, never said anything derogatory against my prior attorney and was very compassionate towards me and what I was enduring. He didn't know that most times when I called I had been crying for hours, thinking that I should just give up trying to find a new attorney for a case that was as old as mines. Instead he always cheered me on and told me not to give up. Because, I listened to that advice I eventually found a wonderful firm who picked up my case.I really think. No I know I would have given up had it not been for his encouraging words. It's totally my lose that we didn't get to work together, but I will forever be grateful to you for the kindness you showed towards me during the most difficult period of my life. If I could give you 100 stars, I'd do it with no hesitation. If anyone is ever in need of a thoughtful, kind, and sincere attorney I suggest giving Sam. Mitchell a call. Thank you from the bottom of my heart Sam!!! I wishyou nothinv but the best. The world could certainly use more attorneys like you\!  Andy S. 16:12 10 Jan 18 Very professional, courteous, and do a great job representing their clients.  Iris K. 14:53 17 May 17 This TEAM of attorneys are amazing!! They fight for their clients and their rights with passion. Their competitive nature gives them an advantage no one can compare to. On top of all of this, they give back. Their community for sure benefits by their generosity in many ways. Thank you for fighting for all personal injury victims daily. If you are searching for a team that will right your wrong, this is the team!! You want a team of attorneys to fight with and for you, not just one!\!  Karee C. 14:20 17 May 17 Not only does Sam C. Mitchell and Assoc. take care of their clients, they also take care of their community! They donate to various causes including education, recreation, Hospice, and support many other individual's heathcare needs.  Linda W. 19:24 18 Apr 16 Very helpful ‹ ›  ## Case Results Over \$200 Million Recovered for Our Clients   Auto Accidents \$9,000,000 Auto accident involving permanent injury to a mother and her unborn child. Auto Accidents \$100,000 A woman from Christopher, IL was involved in a T-bone collision when the defendant failed to yield to our client. She suffered injuries to her left shoulder, neck, and lower back. Auto Accidents \$95,000 A woman from Anna, IL was injured when the defendant swerved and collided with our client causing her vehicle to hit a guardrail. Workers' Compensation \$87,500 A construction worker was injured while working on a project in Mt. Vernon IL. Auto Accidents \$55,000 A woman was driving on Rt. 148 in Crab Orchard when she was hit by another vehicle when the defendant fell asleep at the wheel. Workers' Compensation \$65,000 A man from Carbondale, IL suffered injuries to his right arm and right side of his back while on the job. Auto Accidents \$95,000 Our client was traveling on Hwy 127 yielding to make a left-hand turn and was rear-ended by the defendant. She suffered injuries to her neck, elbow and head. Auto Accidents \$100,000 A man from Goreville, IL was driving eat on Route 45 when the defendant failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with our client’s vehicle. Burn Victim \$24,000,000 House explosion involving a gas leak causing serious and permanent injuries to the occupants. Auto Accidents \$425,000 A West Frankfort woman was driving south on Rt 37 when the defendant pulled out in front of our client. Our client suffered serious injuries to her right arm, neck and back. [More Results](https://scmitchell.com/results/) ## Client Testimonials Hear From People We've Helped   Sam C. Mitchell & Associates handled my case fairly and professionally I was able to put the worry of the legalities and paperwork aside and focus on my rehabilitation after my accident. I would highly recommend Sam C. Mitchell & Associates - Sally Bill explained everything to me and kept me notified of how my case was preceding. Attorney Bill Alexander was very friendly and made my very comfortable. - Keith This team of attorneys is amazing! They fight for their clients and their rights with passion. Their competitive nature gives them an advantage no one can compare to. On top of all of this, they give back. Their community for sure benefits by their generosity in many ways. Thank you for fighting for all personal injury victims daily. If you are searching for a team that will right your wrong, this is the team!! You want a team of attorneys to fight with and for you, not just one!\! - Iris Sam C. Mitchell & Associates continues to be a reputable law firm in Southern Illinois. They go out of their way to help their clients and provide great service. It is also a plus that they are so highly involved in giving back to the surrounding Southern Illinois communities. I highly recommend contacting their friendly staff\! - Erin Not only does Sam C. Mitchell and Assoc. take care of their clients, they also take care of their community! They donate to various causes including education, recreation, Hospice, and support many other individual’s healthcare needs. - Karee [More Testimonials](https://scmitchell.com/testimonials/) [](https://scmitchell.com/ "Sam C. Mitchell and Associates") [618-932-2772](tel:6189322772) ### Main Office 115 E. Main Street West Frankfort, IL 62896 [618-932-2772](tel:+16189322772) [Map & Directions \[+\]](https://goo.gl/maps/5qxXiuPi6wviSM667) ### Quick Links - [Home](https://scmitchell.com/) - [Our Attorneys](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/) - [Proudly Serving](https://scmitchell.com/proudly-serving/) - [Contact Us](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) - [Site Map](https://scmitchell.com/site-map/) - [Privacy Policy](https://scmitchell.com/privacy-policy/) ### Follow Us © 2026 [Sam C. Mitchell and Associates.](https://scmitchell.com/) All Rights Reserved. [Privacy Policy](https://scmitchell.com/privacy-policy/ "Privacy Policy") \| [Terms of Use](https://scmitchell.com/terms-of-use/ "Terms of Use") \| [Cookie Policy](https://scmitchell.com/cookie-policy/ "Cookie Policy") The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

As a child, you may have been told to stop, look, and listen before you cross a street. The same advice applies to preventing [auto accidents in Illinois](https://scmitchell.com/6-delayed-car-crash-symptoms-not-to-ignore/). If you or your loved one has been injured in an auto or car accident, call our team today\! When another vehicle strikes your vehicle, you need to stop and make sure you are okay. If not, do not move. Call for help and wait for it to arrive. If you can get out of your vehicle, look around to [see who might have caused the auto accident](https://scmitchell.com/what-to-do-after-you-have-been-in-a-car-accident/) and check for any witnesses. Then, ask for their names, addresses, and phone numbers. Listen to what they tell you and take notes if you can. Exchange insurance information with the other driver but do not make any statements about how you feel or the cause of the accident except to medical personnel or police officers who come to the scene to investigate. If you follow this advice, and [speak with our dedicated Southern Illinois auto accident attorneys](https://scmitchell.com/our-attorneys/), you can be your own best witness when it comes time to file your claim or a lawsuit. We are proud to be among the [highest-rated auto and car accident law firms in all of Illinois\!](https://maps.app.goo.gl/a2neGhWKn6mrAKBL9) > **[Contact us](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) today at **[(618) 932-2772](<tel:(618) 932-2772>)**to request a free consultation.** ## Reasons to Hire a Lawyer for Your Car Accident Case If a negligent driver has hit you, you have already been the victim once. However, if you attempt to negotiate with insurance companies after your crash on your own, chances are good. You will end up being the victim twice. [A car accident lawyer representing Southern Illinois](https://scmitchell.com/proudly-serving/) can provide a wide range of services to protect your rights and maximize your eligible compensation after an accident. **Some of the many services an auto accident attorney can provide include:** - Thoroughly investigating the [cause of your accident](https://scmitchell.com/common-types-of-car-crashes/) - Collecting and analyzing evidence relevant to your case such as police reports, photographs of the scene, eyewitness testimony, vehicle “black box” data, and cell phone records - Consulting with experts from a variety of fields, including accident reconstruction, engineering, medical care, and life-care planning professionals - Closely examining the terms of all insurance policies applicable to your case - Ensuring all documents are completed and filed on time - Aggressively negotiating with the involved insurance companies on your behalf - Presenting a compelling case to the court if litigation is required - Handling any health care liens that may be attached to your monetary award to ensure you receive the amount you need to cover your losses in full ## How Long Do You Have to File a Claim? [Car accident lawsuits](https://scmitchell.com/category/auto-accidents/) are subject to a “statute of limitations” which places a hard deadline on how long you have to take legal action. **In Illinois, personal injury lawsuits related to car accidents must be filed within two years of the date of your collision.** Property damage lawsuits, such as those involving damage to your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the crash, must be filed within five years. Filing a claim after these deadlines have expired will almost certainly result in the court refusing to hear your case, thereby permanently preventing you from pursuing further damages. It is important to remember that insurance claims have a completely different timeline and must generally be filed with either your insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurer within a few days or weeks of the crash to be eligible for coverage. Since these deadlines can have such a massive impact on your ability to recover compensation, it is important to contact a car accident lawyer in Illinois right away to determine the best course of action. ### Comparative Fault Explained Illinois follows a traditional fault-based system for car accidents, [which allows injured car accident victims to seek compensation from the at-fault driver](https://scmitchell.com/who-pays-the-medical-bills-in-a-car-wreck/). With that being said, your eligible compensation will be reduced if you are found to be partially responsible for the collision. If you are found to be 50% or more at fault for the crash, you will not be able to recover any damages. For example, if a jury were to find you 25% at fault for a crash, you would only be able to recover 75% of your claimed damages. This means that if you suffered \$20,000 in damages, you would only be eligible to recover \$15,000. Insurance companies understand these rules well and will often attempt to unfairly blame you for a crash to minimize their financial liability. Having a skilled attorney by your side can help ensure you are treated fairly and maximize your chances of securing the level of compensation you deserve. ## How Much Is Your Car Accident Case Worth in Southern Illinois? Every auto accident is unique; therefore, every auto accident claim will be approached differently and have a different value. The value of your case will depend on a variety of factors and cannot be determined without analyzing evidence regarding your injuries, the long-term effects of your injuries, the amount of income you lose due to your injuries, the cost of your medical treatments, the level of damage to your vehicle, and the events leading up to and immediately following your collision. Car accident claims involving [severe injuries](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/catastrophic-injuries/), such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, or traumatic injuries tend to have the highest value. [It is important to discuss your case with a skilled auto accident attorney](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) to get a more accurate representation of your eligible compensation. ### I-57 Car Accident Attorneys: Local & Dependable The Interstate 57 that runs north-to-south in Illinois, starting in Chicago, sees an inordinate amount of car accidents each year. As a major highway and the longest in Illinois, the I-57 has commuters, commercial trucks, and construction on it at essentially all times and in large numbers. The odds of encountering a negligent driver on this busy freeway are, unfortunately, high. In fact, a recent study found that it was the single-most dangerous highway in Illinois, with more than a dozen deaths along it each year. (You can learn more about the study by [clicking here](https://www.wsiltv.com/news/i-57-named-deadliest-highway-in-illinois/article_027f8977-ff71-55ab-a4e9-64aa3964eb26.html) and viewing a WSIL-3 ABC news report.) [If you get hurt in an auto accident along the I-57](https://scmitchell.com/illinois-i-57-accidents-386-miles-of-dangerous-d/), know you can count on our lawyers for help. We are local and dependable, and we genuinely care about your future and well-being because we see you not as a case number, but as a friend in need. ### Common Injuries from Auto Accidents in Southern Illinois​  Any injury you may suffer as a result of a car accident should be treated by a doctor. Some injuries may at first appear to be minor but could worsen if left untreated. You should seek medical attention immediately if you have any aches or pains resulting from an accident. In addition to treating your injuries, seeing a doctor provides you with medical records that may be valuable if you decide to pursue an auto accident lawsuit from an injury in Illinois. **Car accidents can cause a variety of injuries of various degrees of severity. Here are some typical injuries:** - **Brain Injuries:** These injuries occur from the force of another object hitting your head or the immediate deceleration and acceleration of the brain. - **Upper limbs:** Fingers, hands, arms, and shoulders can suffer lacerations, fractures, and broken bones as a result of collision impact. Pain may be permanent and physical therapy and surgery may be required. - **Lower limbs:** Legs, hips, feet, toes, ankles, and knees may be damaged in an automobile accident. Bones may be broken or fractured, nerves can be damaged, and surgery may be required, as well as physical therapy. - **Internal organs:** The impact and speed of a collision can also damage internal organs. Kidneys, liver, spleen, stomach, heart, and lungs can be jostled, traumatized, and damaged during a crash. The ribcage and sternum can also be fractured or broken. - **Neck injuries:** The most common example of a neck injury in Illinois is whiplash. It is often caused by rear-end accidents and results in damaged ligaments, nerves, and tissue, limiting the victim’s movement of their neck and causing pain. While whiplash is often a temporary condition, it can also be permanent. Getting injured can cause physical and emotional pain, but you should never have doubts about seeking legal advice. [A trained Southern Illinois personal injury lawyer can help you pursue your claim](https://scmitchell.com/personal-injury-attorney/) and work to receive compensation for your medical bills. ### Take Care of Yourself After an Auto Crash If you were injured in an auto accident in Illinois, whether it be on a busy highway like I-57 or a city street, this is no time to be brave or stoic. If someone, especially a police officer, suggests that you need to go an emergency room, do it. Have your auto accident injuries checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. If the doctor prescribes medication or follow-up treatment, get it. Your medical bills, your time off from work, your pain and suffering, and your disability are [all part of your personal injury case](https://scmitchell.com/covid-19-and-personal-injury-cases/). **Documentation is an extremely important part of building an automobile accident case. Make copies of the following items and give them to your car accident lawyer in Illinois:** - Medical bills - Prescriptions - Auto repair bills - Towing receipts - Rental or replacement vehicle costs - Your paycheck stubs Keep these records even if your own health or automobile insurance paid for them. You or your insurance company might be entitled to reimbursement. Likewise, you may be entitled to compensation for lost time from work even if you continue to be paid. You should not have to use your sick leave or vacation time to recover from an auto accident that someone else caused. ## Can I File A Car Accident Claim After Insurance Pays? Most insurance companies include in their settlement offers that no additional compensation, beyond the settlement amount, can be collected after an agreement is signed. This is true even if injuries become more serious in the following weeks and months following your accident, [as is common with injuries sustained in a car accident](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/car-accident-passenger-injuries/). If you have been offered a settlement, or if you have already signed one, call Sam C. Mitchell & Associates today to talk about your car case. ### Get a Good Car Accident Lawyer in Southern Illinois Insurance companies have auto attorneys to advise them regarding any claims. Make sure you also have a good, experienced, and reputable auto accident lawyer in Illinois to advise you. [The personal injury attorneys at Sam C. Mitchell & Associates work exclusively for people](https://scmitchell.com/questions-to-ask-when-hiring-a-personal-injury-lawyer/) injured in an auto accidents. They can help make sure that you get all of the compensation you are entitled to. > [**Contact**](https://scmitchell.com/contact-us/) our car accident attorneys in Southern Illinois at Sam C. Mitchell & Associates today by calling **[(618) 932-2772](<tel:(618) 932-2772>)** to begin your road to recovery now. #### Recommended Reading - [Auto Accident FAQs](https://scmitchell.com/car-accident-lawyers-in-illinois/auto-accident-faqs/) - [Six Delayed Car Crash Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore](https://scmitchell.com/6-delayed-car-crash-symptoms-not-to-ignore/) - [Distracted Driving Awareness](https://scmitchell.com/april-is-distracted-driving-awareness-month/) - [Common Types of Car Accidents](https://scmitchell.com/common-types-of-car-crashes/) ### Hear from People We’ve Helped > ***5/5 stars*** *I have been in an accident previously and used Sam C. Mitchell & Associates so I knew the great service I would receive. They do it all for you, in my case you need all your energy focused on getting well. **–** **Teresa*** ### We’ve Helped Many - \$9,000,000.00 – Auto accident involving permanent injury to a mother and her unborn child - \$5,006,000.00 – Woman was severely injured in a car crash and her airbags failed to deploy in her vehicle - \$4,500,000.00 – Auto accident resulting in death and injury case