How Do Illinois Vehicle Accident Claims Work?

If you are like most people, you are not exceedingly familiar with the world of insurance, laws, and vehicle accidents. This is likely because you have minimal exposure to it since you have not needed to delve into this world much before. Not getting in an accident or violating traffic rules is a good thing. However, it is wise to preemptively prepare yourself since an accident can happen to anyone at any time, anywhere.

The vehicle accident lawyers at Balke & Williams hope to clarify the vehicle accident claim process. This article explains how it works, helping Chicagoland, from Warrenville, IL, to Crystal Lake, IL, do just that – prepare.

Injuries?

If you get into an accident, check for injuries immediately. However, be aware that some may creep up on you a few days or weeks later. Nevertheless, seeking a medical diagnosis as soon as possible is best to establish causality and ensure compensation later.

Reporting the incident

It is imperative you report the case as soon as you can. Call the police. Having them come out will give objectivity to your claim rather than limit it to your word versus the other driver’s. It is worth noting that the motorist crash report that the police give you after an accident is not an official police report.

Do not say anything indicating that you believe you were the driver at fault, even if you were. The accident scene is not the place, nor is anyone present the party responsible for making this determination. Likewise, do not say anything the opposition can later use or manipulate to paint you at fault for the accident.

You will also need to report the incident to your insurance company. You do not need to do this immediately at the scene of the accident, as you do reporting to the police. Confirm how long the window is that your insurer accepts accident reports and file accordingly.

In general, filing sooner greatly diminishes the chance your insurance company denies your claim. An exception to this is if you cannot report your claim because your injuries are severe and leave you hospitalized for a significant amount of time. Your insurance company will likely review your claim in this instance.

Note that the statute of limitations for a car accident in Illinois is two years. While you have this entire period to file your claim in court, we strongly advise you do so as quickly as possible. Failing to file your claim within these two years forfeits your right to file it at all afterward. Working with a vehicle accident compensation attorney will ensure this does not happen while also guaranteeing you get the maximum compensation possible.

Pictures

It is extremely wise to take as many pictures as possible. Having more photos than you need later in the process is better than not having enough. Do not only take pictures of your car – take photos of the other vehicle, including a picture clearly showing their license plate. Get pictures of the surroundings, such as skid marks made by one of the vehicles involved in the collision and damage to other things like traffic light posts or buildings. The photos you collect are invaluable evidence that can strengthen your claim later.

Exchange Information

Make sure to note the other vehicle’s year, make, and model. In addition, get all necessary contact information for the other driver, such as their name, phone number or email address, and residential address. Lastly, get their insurance and license information. Doing this will streamline your case later.

We do not advise giving any recorded statement if you intend to partner with a car accident claim lawyer for legal counsel or representation. Insurance companies are known to distort these to reduce the money they pay later.

Getting in an accident, especially for the first time, is a nerve-wracking experience. Preparing yourself with this overview can be a great way to make sure your experience goes as smoothly as possible. Contact Balke & Williams if you are in need of further information, counsel, or representation for your vehicle accident claim in Illinois.

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