In Illinois in 2007, 1,249 people were killed in car accidents, according to the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Nationwide, more than 2 million people were injured and over 40,000 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes.

Many of these “accidents” can be attributed to drinking and driving – DWI, or “driving while intoxicated” and DUI, or "driving under the influence." DWI and DUI account for a driver who is operating a vehicle under the influence of any illegal drug, such as marijuana or cocaine, or even a prescription drug. According to the lIllinois Secretary of State, nearly half of all fatal crashes in Illinois in 2006 were alcohol-related.

The NHTSA collects accident information for many different classes of vehicles, including the following:

Motorcycle accidents
SUV accidents
Single-car accidents
Multi-vehicle pileups
Collisions with pedestrians or bicycles
Car accidents caused by semis

Injuries suffered as a result of a traffic accident can be devastating, ranging from soft tissue injuries to broken bones, paralysis or death.

What does the law say about auto accidents?

People injured in car accidents and/or the family members of people killed in automobile accidents can sue the negligent driver for damages including pain and suffering, medical costs, loss of income, disability and disfigurement.

As with all personal injury claims, it is important to keep in mind that there may be a time limit for filing your car accident lawsuit.

How do you know if you qualify for a car accident lawsuit?

If you were injured in a car or motorcycle accident, or if one of your family members was killed in a car crash, you may be eligible to file a car accident claim.

A car accident attorney can take into account the circumstances of your case and help you decide whether to file a personal injury and/or wrongful death claim. At the Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll, we have won million-dollar settlements for car crash victims such as a motorcyclist who was injured when a car turned in front of him, a pedestrian who was struck by a vehicle while in the crosswalk and a woman who was paralyzed when she was a passenger of a car driven by an intoxicated driver.

Contact us at (312) 676-7222, or fill out the contact form to set up a personal consultation. Jeff Kroll will discuss your accident with you and go over your options, in addition to dealing with all parties and insurance companies involved.