Legal Question in Traffic Law in Illinois

How Long Am I Liable ?

Chicago. Involved in minor car accident (no injuries), my fault. Assured oher driver that I would pay for her damages out of my pocket, as not to make my insurance premiums possibly increase. Called her that evening offering to take her car for estimates, etc. No response from her for six weeks, when she called me thanking me for my earlier call, and said she was now interested in having her car fixed. She apologized about the delay, but was very firm about now wanting everyting done (including rental car). Is there some statute of limitations here ? Am I still liable to pay her expenses for the repair after six weeks of not hearing anything ? (I had my car fixed immediately after the accident, for $86).


Asked on 6/19/03, 8:10 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Charles Dobra Charles Wm. Dobra, Ltd.

Re: How Long Am I Liable ?

The statute of limitation in Illinois for personal injuries is 2 years, 5 years for property damage. IF you pay for the property damages, and the rental car, be sure to get a RELEASE for both the property damage and personal injury claim...IN OTHER WORDS, YOU SHOULD TELL HER TO HAVE HER CAR FIXED, AND GET A PAID BILL, FOR BOTH THE BODY SHOP AND THE RENTAL CAR. THEN, HAVE HER SIGN THE RELEASE. NO RELEASE, NO CHECK.

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Answered on 6/20/03, 5:14 pm
Thaddeus Hunt Law Offices of Thaddeus Hunt

Re: How Long Am I Liable ?

The statute of limitations (the time in which she has to file a claim) is 2 years from the date of the accident. Simply because she has not returned your call for six weeks does not absolve you of liability.

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Answered on 6/20/03, 12:55 am


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