A car accident can turn your day upside down in an instant. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a serious collision, the moments after a crash are often confusing and overwhelming. Knowing what to do after a car accident in Chicago can help protect your health, your rights, and any potential legal claim you may need to file.
At The Law Office of Daniel E. Goodman, we’ve helped countless accident victims navigate the aftermath of a crash. This guide walks you through the key steps to take after a car accident, from the immediate response to handling insurance and legal matters down the road.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Your first priority after any accident is safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If you’re able, safely move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further risk.
If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s still wise to request medical attention. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not become evident immediately.
Step 2: Call the Police and File a Report
Under Illinois law, you must report a crash if it results in injury, death, or over $1,500 in property damage. That means you should always contact the police to be safe.
An officer will file an official report, which can become a crucial part of your car accident claims process in Illinois. Be sure to request the officer’s name and badge number, and ask how to get a copy of the report.
Step 3: Exchange Information
While waiting for the police, exchange the following details with the other driver(s):
- Full name and contact info
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance provider and policy number
Also, gather information from any witnesses. Their statements can help support your claim if liability becomes an issue.
Step 4: Document the Scene of the Accident
The more details you collect at the scene, the stronger your case will be later. Use your phone to take pictures of:
- All vehicles involved, from different angles
- Damage to your vehicle and any others
- Road conditions, traffic signs, and skid marks
- Any visible injuries you or your passengers have
This documentation can be vital when dealing with insurance adjusters or a Chicago car accident attorney.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Stick to the basic facts of what happened. Avoid admitting fault or speculating about the cause of the crash.
Your insurance provider will walk you through the next steps, which may include vehicle repair, medical evaluations, or further investigation. If the other driver was at fault, your insurer may pursue compensation from their policy.
Step 6: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor soon after the crash. Some injuries take hours or even days to appear. A medical exam can catch hidden issues and help build a stronger injury claim.
Be sure to keep all medical records, medical expenses, and receipts. They’ll be essential when calculating damages and proving the impact of the accident.
Step 7: Contact a Chicago Car Accident Attorney
Navigating the legal process after a crash can be overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with injuries, lost wages, or emotional trauma. That’s why so many accident victims turn to an experienced personal injury lawyer.
A skilled Chicago car accident attorney can help you:
- Understand your legal rights
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Deal with insurance companies
- Maximize the compensation you receive
At The Law Office of Daniel E. Goodman, our highly experienced attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis — you don’t pay unless we win your case.
What Is the Car Accident Claims Process in Illinois?
In Illinois, if you’re injured in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Here’s a general outline of how the process works:
- Investigation – Your attorney will review the crash report, medical records, witness statements, and photos.
- Filing the Claim – A claim is filed with the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- Negotiation – Your lawyer will negotiate for a fair settlement based on your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Litigation (if necessary) – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney may file a lawsuit and take the case to court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Illinois?
A: Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. That means you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Q: What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance coverage?
A: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance may cover your injuries and damages. Your attorney can help explore all available options.
Q: Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance company?
A: Not without legal advice. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to settle quickly or say something that could hurt your case. It’s best to let your lawyer handle those conversations.
Your Legal Advocate After a Car Accident
Accidents are stressful. But you don’t have to go through it alone. The Law Office of Daniel E. Goodman is here to stand by your side and help you move forward.
We’ve built a reputation in Chicago for fighting for car accident victims with skill, compassion, and results. If you’re wondering what to do after a car accident in Chicago, start with a call to our office. We’ll explain your options and help you take the next steps with confidence.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Let us protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call now at 847-292-6000 or fill out our simple contact form to get started. You’ve got enough to worry about — let us handle the legal side of things.