Chicago
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Construction Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Edwardsville
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Premises Liability
St. Louis
Case Types We Handle
Personal Injuries
Car Accidents
Truck Accidents
Motorcycle Accidents
Bicycle Accidents
Construction Accidents
Nursing Home Abuse
Wrongful Death
Slip and Fall Accidents
Daycare Injury & Abuse
Dangerous Drugs
Defective Products
Chemical Exposure

The #1 Columbia Car Accident Lawyer

Our Columbia car accident law firm has been awarded over $4 BILLION in verdicts and negotiated settlements on behalf of our clients.

Published By:
Tor Hoerman
Tor Hoerman

Attorney Tor Hoerman, admitted to the Illinois State Bar Association since 1995 and The Missouri Bar since 2009, specializes nationally in mass tort litigations. Locally, Tor specializes in auto accidents and a wide variety of personal injury incidents occuring in Illinois and Missouri.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and attorneys at TorHoerman Law and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Tor Hoerman, you can do so here.

TorHoerman Law does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

The #1 Car Accident Lawyers in Columbia, Illinois

Looking for an experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyer with a winning track record?

Our team has been awarded over $4 BILLION in verdicts & negotiated settlements.

Contact us for help!

Columbia Car Accident Lawyer
Play Video

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in a Columbia area car accident – you may be eligible to participate in a Columbia car accident lawsuit.

Contact a Columbia car accident lawyer at TorHoerman Law for a free, no-obligation case consultation!

Want to find out if you qualify for compensation right away?

Use chatbot below to get an instant online case evaluation from a Columbia car accident law firm.

You are not alone on the road to financial recovery – contact the Columbia personal injury lawyers at TorHoerman Law and learn how our firm can serve you!

Table of Contents
Columbia Car Accident Lawyer

Involved in a Car Accident in Columbia, IL?

Being in a car accident is scary enough, but the aftermath can be incredibly overwhelming, too.

Most individuals are left with a lot of questions after an accident.

Some of the common questions we have been asked by car accident victims (we’ve helped receive fair compensation) include:

  • Can I get compensated for the cost of my accident?
  • Is it worth pursuing a claim?
  • Will insurance cover the costs of the accident?
  • What does the legal process look like?

You may have incurred many medical bills, been forced to take off work to recover or replace a car due to extensive damage, all of which are unexpected expenses.

However, you do not have to face any of those worries alone!

At TorHoerman Law, a seasoned car accident attorney is always here to help you through every step of the process.

We are experienced in car accident lawsuit representation services in Columbia, IL.

Contact TorHoerman Law to speak with a member of our Edwardsville personal injury legal team and get your questions answered right now, free of charge!

Columbia Car Accident Statistics

The statistics presented below are gathered from the most recent data, calendar year 2021,  published by the Illinois Department of Transportation:

  • 5,642 total accidents, involving 9,780 vehicles were reported in Madison County.
  • 26 fatal accidents occurred in 2021.
  • Most accidents happened during clear, dry weather conditions (4,688 accidents).
  • The most common accidents were front to rear collisions (1,156 accidents) and turning collisions (1,071).
  • 474 animal collisions also occurred in 2021.
  • Most accidents occurred during daylight hours (3,528).
  • A wide majority of accidents occurred when drivers were unimpaired (7,971).
  • 195 drunk driving accidents occurred in 2021.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Columbia

Do you know what to do if you are involved in a car accident?

Here are seven (7) steps to take if you are involved in a vehicle accident in Columbia:

1. STOP!

Do not drive away. Even if the other driver begins driving away, do not chase after them.

Instead, write down their license plate number and any vehicle details you can – then continue to step 2.

2. Call the Police & Contact Medical Professionals

In Illinois, there are specific laws governing if you should complete and submit a Motor Vehicle Accident Report.

You should submit an accident report if any of the following apply:

  • The accident occurred less than a year ago
  • An uninsured motorist was involved in the accident
  • An injury or death resulted from the accident
  • Property damage from the accident was more than $500

3. Document Information

Document important accident information including pictures of the accident, license plates of all cars involved, and licenses of the drivers.

Write down your account of the auto accident as well as the names and badge numbers of the responding law enforcement officers.

4. Do Not Discuss Fault

Do not discuss fault with anyone, including the other driver, the police, or any insurance company.

5. If Hurt – Seek Immediate Medical Attention

If hurt, seek medical treatment right away.

Keep track of all medical and billing records.

This will help your lawyer compile the details of your car accident case down the road.

6. Hire An Experienced Columbia Car Accident Lawyer

Hire an experienced Edwardsville car accident attorney.

The sooner you hire a lawyer, the faster you can initiate the legal process.

A Columbia car accident attorney will help car accident victims navigate the confusing and complicated legal system – they’ll also represent you and your interests to the courts!

7. Ask Questions

Ask your legal team any and all questions you may have.

We are here to help you through the lawsuit process as seamlessly as possible!

What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Columbia, IL?

There are a wide variety of types of motor vehicle accidents.

Causes of car accidents in Columbia, IL frequently result from drunk driving, reckless or careless driving, auto defects, distracted driving, rear-end crashes, among many other causes.

The Illinois State Highway Patrol records crash circumstances when documenting car accidents in reports and analyze the data using the Statistical Analysis Center.

Statistics are provided for the following six (6) factors in car accidents:

  1. Alcohol involvement
  2. Speed involvement
  3. Young driver
  4. Mature driver
  5. Commercial vehicle
  6. Motorcycle involved

According to the most recent data analysis, the biggest factors of car accidents were speed and the age of the driver – which includes drivers under the age of 21 and over the age of 55.

End Distracted Driving in Columbia

One of the most common causes of car accidents in Columbia, IL is distracted driving.

There are many steps that can be taken to avoid Columbia car accidents and help to protect drivers on the road.

A few easy, and seemingly obvious, methods include:

  • Put your phone down
  • Keep your eyes on the road
  • Obey the speed limit
  • Take caution when driving through a construction zone

At TorHoerman Law, we are doing our part to combat the issue head-on by promoting our End Distracted Driving campaign and spreading the word about the dangers of driving distracted.

Lawmakers in the state are also beginning to take action to combat this deadly trend of distracted driving.

Legislators have introduced eight separate measures to limit cell phone use while driving, but most drivers can still use the devices without penalty.

Current laws in place ban the use of cell phones for drivers under 21 and commercial motor vehicles, but the law is still one of the most relaxed in the country – whereas many other states ban distracted driving entirely.

Measures have been introduced by elected officials with hopes that they will restrict the use of cell phones while driving and, in turn, make the roadways in Edwardsville, and the State of Illinois, safer for everyone!

What Are the Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Columbia, Illinois (IL)?

Almost any injury can occur as a result of a car accident – seven (7) of the most common car accident injuries we see are:

  • Head and Brain Injuries
  • Neck and Back Injuries
  • Broken Bones
  • Burns
  • Spinal Injuries
  • Soft Tissue Injuries

1. Head and Brain Injuries

The most common head and brain injuries from car accidents include concussions, closed head injuries, penetrating head injury, subdural hematoma, epidural hematoma, and diffuse axonal injury.

Car accidents can also cause brain damage or a traumatic head injury.

2. Laceration and Avulsion

Sometimes, car accident victims can suffer injuries due to laceration or avulsion.

Lacerations are the tearing of tissue due to blunt force, and can cause serious bleeding and pain.

Avulsion injuries occur when a large amount of tissue is torn off the body – if they are not treated properly, avulsion injuries can cause serious damage.

3. Neck and Back Injuries

Car accidents can cause serious neck and back injuries.

These injuries include sprains, strains, herniated discs, fractures, contusions, or compression injuries.

Neck and back injuries can also cause long-term disability, paralysis, or death.

4. Broken Bones

Almost every bone in the body can be broken in a car accident.

Though it is possible to break your legs or arms by driving into a pothole, car accidents typically cause more complicated and life-threatening types of broken bones.

In car accidents, it is possible to break ribs, sternums, and pelvic bones.

5. Burns

Car accidents can cause burns from the car’s airbags or from a fire that might erupt after the accident.

Burn injuries include both first-degree and second-degree burns, as well as burns to your clothes or other materials.

6. Spinal Injuries

Although less common than head and brain injuries, car accidents can still cause serious damage to the spine.

Injuries include injuries to the vertebrae, herniated discs, compression fractures, and spinal cord injuries.

The site of the car accident can also cause potentially serious problems, such as paralysis.

7. Soft Tissue Injuries

Car accidents can cause injuries to soft tissue, including injuries to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and skin.

Soft tissue injuries are common in car accidents, though they are typically not as serious as bone fractures, but soft tissue injuries are not negligible.

They can cause serious swelling, pain, and long-term injuries.

Whether you suffered a major injury, such as those listed above, or a more minor injury – it is important that you mitigate those injuries.

Seek medical assistance as soon as possible after your accident, no matter how minor your injuries seem.

This is an incredibly important step if you decide to file a Columbia car accident lawsuit!

Hiring a Columbia Car Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Columbia, IL – you may be entitled to compensation for the losses you incurred through legal action.

After mitigating your injuries, the first step you should take is contacting a Columbia auto accident lawyer to represent you and your interests.

The choice of an attorney is one of the most important steps in the legal process.

Be sure to find an attorney with:

  • Experience litigating car accident lawsuits
  • The resources at their disposal to litigate your case to the fullest degree
  • The time and determination to represent you to the best of their abilities

TorHoerman Law is an experienced Columbia car accident law firm.

We have developed a winning history fighting for the interests of our clients.

You can expect the following from our firm:

A Qualified Columbia Auto Accident Lawyer

At TorHoerman Law, our attorneys are dedicated to representing victims of serious injuries due to the negligence of others.

Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling hundreds of injury cases, with several successes in the seven figures.

Free Consultations

Our attorneys offer free initial consultations to car accident victims, so you have nothing to lose in contacting us.

During the consultation, we will review your case, explain your rights and legal options, and determine the best way to protect you in court.

If we take on your case, there will never be any fees or costs until we secure financial compensation for your injuries!

Case Evaluation

You only have a certain amount of time to contact an attorney after a car accident.

The same is true with reporting a crime or filing a lawsuit for wrongful death.

Our firm will handle all aspects of your case, including filing a lawsuit against the responsible parties and informing you about your rights!

Uncompromising Client Service

We put our clients first. We’re not just any other Edwardsville car accident lawyer – we’re TorHoerman Law.

We will always return your calls and emails promptly, especially if you are facing an emergency.

We will fight for you with all our might until we have secured the best possible outcome for your case!

In addition to representing individuals, we also work with families of wrongful death victims, assisting them in receiving compensation for the loss of a family member.

Our firm offers legal guidance and support throughout this trying time, including mediations to ensure you receive all the compensation you deserve for your loss.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case consultation and find out why we are the best Columbia car accident lawyers!

TorHoerman Law: The #1 Columbia Car Accident Attorneys

The experienced Columbia car accident attorneys at TorHoerman Law can help you navigate the complicated legal system and answer any questions you may have along the way.

Our goal is to provide you with the best Columbia car accident attorney – one who is experienced and committed to representing you to the fullest extent and getting the outcome that you expect.

Contact our firm and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today to begin the process.

You can also use our chatbot below to receive a free instant online case evaluation right now!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I do if I am involved in a car accident in Columbia, IL?

    If you are involved in a car accident in Columbia (IL), you should take the following four (4) steps:

    1. Call 911

    2. Move Your Car to the Shoulder (if possible)

    If there are no injuries and your car is drivable – move your car to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot especially if the accident is blocking traffic.

    Make sure to turn your hazard lights on as a precaution.

    3. Seek Proper Medical Treatment

    4. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

    Contact an experienced personal injury attorney, such as the Columbia car accident attorneys at TorHoerman Law!

  • Should I file an accident report?

    For most motor vehicle accidents in Columbia, reports are not required.

    But if the following criteria apply, you will need to file an accident report:

    • The accident occurred in Illinois
    • The accident happened within the last 12 months
    • One, or more, of the drivers did not have insurance.

    Your auto insurer is required to include uninsured motorist coverage equal to your bodily personal injury liability coverage to provide coverage if the at-fault driver is not insured.

  • What are common types of car accidents in Columbia, Illinois (IL)?

    There are many causes of car accidents in Columbia.

    The four (4) most common causes of car accidents come as a result of:

    1. Distracted driving
    2. Aggressive driving
    3. Speed exceeding the limit
    4. Driving under the influence

  • How much does a Columbia car accident lawyer cost?

    Like anyone else, you’re probably asking yourself, “how much is this going to cost me?”

    That’s a fair question, especially when it comes to legal aid.

    Here’s some good news – at TorHoerman Law, we operate on a contingency fee basis for all Columbia car accident lawsuits.

    This means that our clients do not pay any fees until they have been awarded compensation for their damages.

    No compensation? No fees.

    If our clients are not financially recovered for their injuries, we take on the costs of the lawsuit.

    So, we are just as dedicated as our clients are to get the best possible outcome for all of our clients’ cases.

    TorHoerman Law – your Columbia Car Accident Law Firm.

  • Is a lawsuit necessary after a Columbia car accident?

    Many Columbia car accident victims wonder whether they should file a lawsuit after their incident.

    The answer to this question, like most legal questions, is that it depends.

    Every person who is injured by another’s negligence, or other wrongful act should meet with a Columbia personal injury lawyer to discuss whether they have a case.

    The fact that the incident occurred indicates that there was some wrong doing involved, whether it be actions or omissions.

    Sometimes people are confused about the difference between an action and an omission.

    Actions are things we can do – omissions occur when we fail to act.

    If a person is walking along a sidewalk and another person falls into them, there is an action resulting in an injury.

    If that same person has the opportunity to warn that person of the danger ahead and they choose not to, that is an omission.

    An experienced Columbia personal injury attorney, like the attorneys at TorHoerman Law, can help answer whatever questions a victim of a car accident may have about their specific case!

  • What is the process of filing a Columbia car accident claim?

    After hiring a lawyer, you should familiarize yourself with the civil litigation process so that you know what to expect of your car accident lawsuit.

    A Columbia car accident attorney’s process of filing a claim includes three (3) steps:

    1. Gathering Evidence

    Your Columbia auto accident lawyer will begin gathering evidence, including any evidence you have been able to collect, to strengthen your car accident claims.

    2. Assessing Damages

    They will then assess the damages that you incurred as a result of your accident, to determine an appropriate amount of compensation.

    3. Proving Liability

    As your Columbia car accident lawyer navigates the complex legal process, they will fight to gain you compensation through a settlement or verdict.

    Oftentimes, a pretrial settlement is the preferred outcome of a car accident cases because it alleviates the plaintiff of having to try their case in court.

    While your attorney fights for you in the court to gain you financial recovery, your main job is to focus on the most important thing – your own physical and emotional recovery!

Written By:
Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman

Owner & Attorney - TorHoerman Law

Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TorHoerman Law, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Since 2009, we have successfully collected over $4 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

About TorHoerman Law

At TorHoerman Law, we believe that if we continue to focus on the people that we represent, and continue to be true to the people that we are – justice will always be served.

Do you believe you’re entitled to compensation?

Use our Instant Case Evaluator to find out in as little as 60 seconds!

$495 Million
Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit

In this case, we obtained a verdict of $495 Million for our client’s child who was diagnosed with Necrotizing Enterocolitis after consuming baby formula manufactured by Abbott Laboratories.

$20 Million
Toxic Tort Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $20 Million for our client after they suffered a Toxic Tort Injury due to chemical exposure.

$103.8 Million
COX-2 Inhibitors Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $103.8 Million for our client after they suffered a COX-2 Inhibitors Injury.

$4 Million
Traumatic Brain Injury

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $4 Million for our client after they suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury while at daycare.

$2.8 Million
Defective Heart Device

In this case, we were able to successfully recover $2.8 Million for our client after they suffered an injury due to a Defective Heart Device.

Guides & Resources
Do You
Have A Case?

Here, at TorHoerman Law, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.

Since 2009, we have successfully collected over $4 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.

Would you like our help?

Share

Other Columbia Personal Injury Cases

Local Columbia Resources
Education
Emergency Services
Courthouses
Department of Motor Vehicles
Sights to See
Counties We Serve
Cities We Serve

What Our Clients Have To Say