Call Our Car Accident Lawyers Lincoln: The Sooner, the Better
After a car accident, your health, financial stability, and peace of mind are all on the line. While there’s no exact legal deadline for when to hire a lawyer, getting help early from car accident lawyers Lincoln can make a major difference. At Kelly & Castagna, we are experienced and compassionate advocates who make sure you’re taken care of every step of the way. From handling paperwork to fighting for fair compensation, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence. Call us today at 309-820-0600 for a consultation.
There’s No Fixed Rule, But Timing Matters
There is no exact day you must hire a lawyer after a crash. However, the sooner you involve legal counsel, the stronger your case can be. Important factors to consider include:
- Severity of the accident: Minor fender bender? You may not need a lawyer. Serious injuries? Get help immediately.
- Injury complications: Medical treatment delays can hurt both your health and your legal claim.
- Liability uncertainty: If fault is unclear or being disputed, having a legal ally early is critical.
- Pressure from insurers: Insurance companies often move fast to minimize payouts. Don’t go in alone.
Legal Tip: The statute of limitations for personal injury in Illinois is typically 2 years from the date of the accident.


Don’t Wait Too Long, You Could Lose Key Evidence
While you might feel fine after a crash, many injuries take time to appear. Seeking medical attention immediately is crucial for your health and to document injuries for your claim.
Waiting too long to act can lead to lost or degraded evidence including: video footage, damaged vehicles, and eyewitness memories. There are also filing deadlines that need to be met, so the sooner you get car accident lawyers Lincoln on your side, the sooner we can get started. This will ensure that deadlines are always met.
It is also possible that settlement offers could be reduced as time goes on and that claims can be denied due to lack of documentation. The attorneys at Kelly & Castagna know how to move quickly to preserve evidence, deal with insurers, and advocate for your full compensation.
Illinois Department of Transportation recommends contacting legal counsel promptly after any crash involving injuries or significant property damage.
Seek Medical Attention First, Then Legal Advice
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, it’s essential to be examined by a doctor. Soft tissue injuries, concussions, and internal damage can go undetected without medical imaging. Delaying care can not only worsen injuries, but insurers may later claim you weren’t truly hurt. Do your best to get copies of ER or urgent care records. When your attorneys know how severe the injuries are, they are better able to negotiate on your behalf.
Make sure to document follow-up appointments and any X-rays, MRIs, or other diagnostics that you have had to get. Physical therapy or rehabilitation records are also important because they show how much long term care you’ve had to commit to in order to get better. These are vital for proving your damages and Kelly & Castagna will make sure none of it is overlooked in your case.
What Not to Do After a Crash
Don’t admit fault, even casually, at the scene. Your words or actions may be used against you in the future. Insurance companies use anything to try not to pay out, so even saying “I’m Sorry” can be detrimental to your case. Also, don’t sign insurance forms without legal review and don’t delay in contacting a lawyer when injuries are involved.
Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly and for less than you deserve. With Kelly & Castagna’s car accident lawyers Lincoln, you have someone in your corner who understands the law, the medical documentation, and how to negotiate effectively.

Let our car accident lawyers Lincoln protect your future
At Kelly & Castagna, we combine legal experience with genuine compassion. We’ve helped countless clients in Lincoln and throughout Illinois recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. We’re here to take the stress off your shoulders and ensure you’re protected now and down the road. If you’ve been in a crash, don’t wait. Contact our car accident lawyers Lincoln today for a free and confidential consultation.