Traffic Accident Ticket Lawyer in Chicago
Traffic violations can create long-term consequences, but we can help you minimize the damage.
Getting into a car accident is stressful, even when you are not seriously hurt. The situation becomes even more overwhelming when you are dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, or expensive repair bills. To make things worse, the police can issue a traffic ticket after the crash, even when you believe you did nothing wrong.
If you received a ticket after a car accident in Illinois, you do not have to simply accept it. Kovacevic Law handles traffic and accident-related citations throughout the Chicago area, and we know how to challenge the ticket and work toward the best possible result. We focus on traffic defense every day, and we are committed to helping you protect your record and move forward.
Most Common Citations Issued After Car Accidents
Illinois police can issue a ticket for almost any driving behavior they believe contributed to a crash. The state has hundreds of traffic offenses on the books, and the penalties range from simple fines to misdemeanor criminal charges. Minor violations usually lead to a fine and points on your license, while more serious allegations can bring harsher consequences. Jail time is possible for certain offenses, but in most accident cases, that is not something drivers typically face.
Some of the most common tickets issued after a car accident include:
- Failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident
- Improper lane usage
- Failure to yield
- Disobeying a traffic control device
- Following too closely
- Reckless driving
- Speeding
These citations can affect your driving record, your insurance rates, and even your ability to keep your license. That is why many drivers choose to challenge the ticket rather than simply paying the fine. Kovacevic Law can review what happened, examine the officer’s conclusions, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges whenever possible.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving the Chicagoland area, call (312) 344-3340.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I just pay the fine I get from the traffic accident?
It can be tempting to pay a ticket after an accident to get the situation over with, but paying the fine is the same as admitting guilt. That can lead to points on your license, higher insurance premiums, or even a suspension if you already have other violations. For more serious charges like reckless driving or aggravated speeding, paying the fine can leave you with a criminal record. Before accepting any ticket, it is important to know how it could affect your future.
Do traffic accident citations affect personal injury claims?
Yes, traffic accident citations do affect personal injurt claims. When someone is injured in a car accident or their vehicle has more than 1,500 dollars in damage, the crash must be reported to the police. During their investigation, officers may issue citations for any violations they believe contributed to the accident. If you pay the ticket, you are admitting fault, and that can make it easier for the injured party to pursue a personal injury claim against you.
Will my insurance rates go up if I get a ticket after an accident?
In most cases, yes insurance rates go up. Even if your insurance company covers the other driver’s damages, a conviction on your record typically leads to a significant increase in premium costs. These rate increases can last for several years, making a single ticket much more expensive in the long run.
Does Kovacevic Law handle citations related to car accidents?
Yes, Kovacevic Law handles traffic accident citations every day and understands how these cases connect to potential personal injury claims. While no attorney can promise a specific outcome, we work to secure the best result possible and avoid putting you at a disadvantage if a lawsuit is filed later.
Can a traffic ticket from an accident be dismissed in court?
Yes, many traffic tickets issued after an accident can be dismissed, reduced, or amended—especially when the evidence is weak or the officer’s conclusions are questionable. Police officers often arrive after the crash has already happened, which means they must rely on statements, assumptions, or incomplete information when deciding who to ticket.
Common reasons a ticket from an accident may be dismissed include:
- The officer did not witness the accident
- Conflicting statements from drivers or witnesses
- Lack of clear evidence showing you violated a traffic law
- Incorrect conclusions about who had the right of way
- Dashcam, surveillance, or accident reconstruction showing a different version of events
- Officer errors in the citation or report
In many cases, a skilled traffic accident lawyer can negotiate the charge down to a non-moving violation, secure court supervision, or get the ticket dismissed entirely. This helps protect your driving record, prevents insurance rate increases, and reduces the risk of being found liable in a future personal injury case.
Kovacevic Law will review the police report, accident evidence, and your account of what happened to identify the strongest defenses and work toward the best outcome.