Champaign, IL Car Accident Lawyers
Standing Up for the Rights of Injured Drivers
At Haxel Law, we’re always ready to stand up for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who have been injured in car accidents throughout Champaign and the surrounding areas of Illinois. With more than 40 years of personal injury experience, we’ve helped countless clients recover fair compensation after serious crashes. Whether you were hit by a distracted driver, struck by someone running a red light, or rear-ended at a stop sign, we’re here to make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
When you’ve been injured due to another driver’s negligence, you deserve a legal team that really fights for you. As experienced trial attorneys, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court if the insurance company won’t offer a fair settlement. You can count on our Champaign car accident attorneys to provide knowledgeable guidance, personalized attention, and the strength to fight back.
Get a free case review today. Just call (217) 215-4166 to begin.
Illinois Car Accident Laws
Illinois is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible for resulting damages. Accident victims typically pursue compensation through the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
Illinois also follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this system, you may recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your recovery will be reduced by 20%.
Additionally, Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for most car accident injury claims. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation entirely. Our Champaign car accident lawyer can ensure deadlines are met and your claim is properly handled from the start.
Where Do Crashes Often Occur in Champaign?
Certain roads and intersections in Champaign see higher rates of traffic accidents due to congestion, speed, and driver behavior. Common crash locations include:
- Interstate 57 and Interstate 74
- Neil Street and Prospect Avenue
- University Avenue
- Green Street near the University of Illinois campus
- High-traffic shopping and commercial areas
With a large student population, heavy pedestrian traffic, and frequent construction zones, Champaign presents unique driving hazards. Distracted and impaired driving near campus areas also contributes to an increased risk of collisions.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
Car accidents in Champaign occur for many reasons, but negligence is often the underlying factor. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting or using GPS
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Failure to yield at intersections
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Tailgating
- Poor weather conditions, including snow and ice
- Fatigued driving
When drivers fail to follow traffic laws or exercise reasonable care, they can be held liable for the injuries and losses they cause.
Common Injuries in Car Accidents
Motor vehicle collisions can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Common car accident injuries include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Concussions
- Spinal cord and back injuries
- Neck and shoulder injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Severe lacerations and burns
Some injuries may not be immediately apparent after a crash. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential not only for your health but also for documenting your injuries for a personal injury claim.
Compensation in a Car Accident Claim
A serious car accident can change your life in an instant, physically, emotionally, and financially. The goal of a personal injury claim is to help make you whole again by compensating you for your economic and non-economic losses. Our legal team takes the time to fully understand your injuries, your needs, and the true value of your case, so we can fight for everything owed to you.
You may be able to seek compensation for:
- Emergency, past, and future medical expenses
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle repairs or replacement
- Other out-of-pocket costs related to the accident
We work with medical experts, economists, and life care planners when necessary to prepare strong claims that reflect the full impact of your injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Much Is My PI Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your claim can be complex. It can be easy to overlook many types of compensation available to you, especially without an in-depth understanding of Illinois law. Seeking legal representation is essential to identify liable parties and calculate the total damages in your claim.
While pinpointing the exact value of your claim requires a thorough case evaluation from our attorneys, you should know that you are entitled to compensation for all losses incurred in the accident, including future costs resulting from your injuries. Our firm can negotiate effectively on your behalf to pursue the full compensation available to you.
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How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Claim?
It depends. The timeframe for settling a personal injury claim will vary based on unique factors, such as whether the insurance company is willing to make a fair offer, any potential liability disputes, and whether your case goes to trial. Many claims are settled out of court, but others can take more time to resolve. However, taking longer to settle isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
While preparing for potential litigation may extend the duration of your case, it can also mean the difference between recovering maximum compensation and walking away with much less than you deserve. Our attorneys are familiar with insurance companies to pursue the fastest path to resolution without compromising the just settlement you need to focus on your recovery.
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Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster?After an accident, you should avoid discussing the incident with any insurance representative without your lawyer present. Having your attorney speak directly with the insurance adjuster on your behalf is typically best to protect your rights. If you do end up talking with the insurance adjuster, you only need to provide basic information, such as your name, address, and so on. Don’t share any information that may be used against you, such as apologizing or admitting fault.
Let Us Lead the Way – Call Now
After a car accident, the last thing you need is to be overwhelmed by paperwork, insurance adjusters, or courtroom worries. At Haxel Law, we lead the way—investigating the crash, managing deadlines, and fighting for the outcome you deserve—so you can concentrate on healing, resting, and taking care of your family. Our Champaign car accident lawyers bring more than four decades of courtroom and settlement experience to every case, and we never charge a fee unless we recover compensation for you. It might not get any simpler to pursue compensation and justice after a crash!
Schedule your free consultation today by dialing (217) 215-4166. Let us fight for justice while you focus on resting.
Car Accident Claim FAQs
What should I do after a car accident in Champaign?
Call 911, seek medical care, document the scene if possible, and contact a car accident lawyer before speaking with insurance companies.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor car accident?
Even seemingly minor accidents can lead to delayed injuries and disputed liability. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure fair compensation.
How much is my car accident case worth?
The value depends on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and fault. A lawyer can evaluate your claim and provide guidance.
How long does a car accident claim take in Illinois?
Some cases settle in months, while others take longer if litigation is required. Each case is unique.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
You may still recover compensation if you are less than 51% at fault, though your recovery will be reduced.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I will definitely use Haxel Law again!"I’m so grateful for the legal assistance I received from Haxel Law. Martin is extremely knowledgeable and guided me throughout the process. I recommend Martin Haxel. He’s no nonsense and gets the job done. If needed I will definitely use Haxel Law again.- Sally B.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.