Injured in a Peoria car accident? Get the compensation you deserve with a local lawyer who fights for YOU—not the insurance companies.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Peoria, Illinois, you’re likely facing a whirlwind of medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and insurance headaches. It’s stressful, but knowing how to protect your rights and maximize your compensation can make all the difference. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer in Peoria ensures you aren’t leaving money on the table.
At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we pride ourselves on offering personalized legal representation, not the cookie-cutter approach you’ll find at corporate law firms. Here’s what you need to know to secure the compensation you deserve.
1. Prioritize Your Health and Document Everything
Your first step after any car accident should always be seeking medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. Medical records safeguard your health and serve as critical evidence when pursuing a claim.
Follow all treatment plans and keep copies of medical bills, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes. These documents directly impact the value of your claim.
2. Don’t Trust the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters often seem friendly, but remember, they work for the insurance company, not you. Their job is to minimize payouts. Many accident victims in Peoria unknowingly accept lowball settlements because they don’t realize the actual value of their case.
Before speaking with any insurance representative, speak with a Peoria car accident lawyer who can handle communications and negotiations on your behalf.
3. Contact a Local, Experienced Car Accident Lawyer in Peoria
Choosing the right attorney is crucial. While national firms advertise heavily, they often funnel cases to junior associates or paralegals. At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney who understands Illinois law and local courts.
Why Choose a Local Attorney Over a Corporate Firm?
- Personalized Attention: We tailor strategies to your unique situation.
- Deep Knowledge of Peoria: Familiarity with local roads and accident hotspots can strengthen your case.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis—if you don’t win, you don’t pay.
4. Gather Strong Evidence
The stronger your evidence, the higher your potential compensation. Here’s what can help:
- Accident Reports: Always call the police and obtain a copy of the report.
- Photos & Videos: Document the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
- Witness Statements: Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident.
- Expert Testimony: We often work with accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts to solidify claims.
5. Calculate All Damages—Not Just Medical Bills
Many victims underestimate their claim by only considering immediate expenses. A skilled car accident lawyer in Peoria will account for:
- Medical Expenses (Current & Future)
- Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
- Emotional Distress
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
We fight to ensure every aspect of your loss is valued appropriately.
6. Be Patient—Settling Too Quickly Can Cost You
It’s tempting to accept a fast settlement when bills are piling up, but patience often leads to significantly higher compensation. We build strong cases designed to withstand pressure from insurance companies and, if necessary, present a compelling argument in court.
7. Know the Statute of Limitations in Illinois
In Illinois, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit from the accident date. Missing this deadline could bar you from recovering any compensation. That’s why it’s vital to speak with a Peoria car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Get a Free Consultation with a Car Accident Lawyer in Peoria
At Schierer & Ritchie, LLC, we’re not a corporate machine. We’re your neighbors, dedicated to protecting the people of Peoria with aggressive legal representation.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, don’t navigate this alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and find out how much your case could really be worth.
