Partial Fault in Negligence Cases

Many people are involved in car accidents in which they are at least partially responsible for causing the crash. In these cases, victims often feel like they shouldn't file a personal injury claim, since the other person was not entirely at fault. However, in Illinois, if a person is not primarily responsible for the accident, they may still be able to receive compensation.

In all personal injury cases, it's very important to be able to show negligence on the part of the other driver and to demonstrate that the accident was primarily their responsibility. Illinois operates under a modified comparative negligence system which means you and your Chicago personal injury lawyer must prove the other driver was at least 51% responsible for your car accident and resulting injuries. A good Chicago personal injury attorney will be able to help you demonstrate that while you may bear some amount of fault for the accident, the other party is still the guilty party.

For example, if you were driving in excess of the posted speed limit, but were struck head-on by someone who was intoxicated, your lawyer would help you make the claim that the intoxicated driver was more responsible for causing the accident than you were.

Even in accident cases that seem relative straight-forward, there are always legal complexities that must be addressed and require the expertise of a lawyer familiar with Illinois negligence laws and how to prove negligence in court. Having the expertise of an experienced Chicago personal injury attorney on your side is critical in ensuring your best interests are looked after throughout your personal injury claim.

The Chicago personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. will fight for a settlement that is fair and will help you to move on from your injuries and regain control of your life.  Contact us today for a free case evaluation - (312) 263-1080

For more information about what actions constitute negligent driving, visit our article library.