A crash can happen anywhere at any time. It can happen when you least expect it. For example, you could be rear-ended while in a traffic jam, broadsided by a driver who ran a red light, or run off the road by a driver who lost control of his or her car.
How likely am I to be involved in a crash?
The car insurance industry estimates that most drivers are involved in a crash every 17.9 years — that’s about 4-6 times throughout the average person’s lifetime. This is only an estimate, however.
Drivers who fail to use caution and obey traffic laws may be involved in more crashes throughout their lifetime. Some may be as minor as parking lot fender benders, while others are high-speed catastrophes.
While there is no predicting when you’ll be involved in a crash, there are some other factors that may increase the likelihood. These include:
- The amount of time you spend on the road: This is a no-brainer. The more time you spend on the road, the more likely you are to be struck by a negligent or reckless driver.
- The time of day you drive: If your daily commute occurs during the morning or evening rush hour, then you likely share the road with more other drivers than any other time of day. During these times, traffic congestion is a problem in Chicago. If you drive late at night or during the early morning hours, you’re more likely to encounter a drunk or drowsy driver.
- The roads you drive on: Serious crashes tend to occur on poorly-designed roads or high-speed interstates.
What if the at-fault driver’s insurance company pins the blame on me?
So, you took every precaution to stay safe and obeyed all traffic laws. Yet you were still involved in a crash. It could have been caused by a distracted driver, drunk driver, or someone exceeding the posted speed limit.
The evidence is clear as day: the other driver caused your crash. Yet the at-fault driver’s insurance company tries to shift the blame onto you. While this may be a frustrating ordeal, just know that you have legal rights that must be upheld.
The at-fault driver’s insurance company couldn’t care less if you’re stuck with a heap of medical bills or if you can’t afford to make ends meet due to lost days at work. They’ll do everything in their power to reduce their own expense. That’s why it’s best to refrain from speaking to them and get legal help.
The Chicago car accident attorneys at Coplan + Crane know how to deal with insurance companies. Our legal team can help you recover all damages you’re entitled to so you don’t have to pay out-of-pocket. Our case evaluations are free of charge and we will not ask you for money unless we win your case. Contact us online or call us at 800-394-6002 to get started.
