Being in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, especially when the crash is not your fault. If you have been involved in an accident that another driver in Illinois caused, you may be wondering what steps you need to take next. This article provides guidance from car accident lawyers on the key actions you should take after a car accident that was not your fault.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault
Check for Injuries and Get Medical Attention
The first thing to do after a car accident is to make sure you and your passengers are unharmed. Even if you feel fine initially, adrenaline can mask serious injuries like internal bleeding or a concussion. Check for cuts, bruises, pain, and any other signs of injury. If there are any life-threatening injuries, call 911 immediately.
For non-emergency injuries, it is still important to seek medical evaluation as soon as possible after the crash. Seeing a doctor will document your injuries for your car accident claim. Injuries that seem minor at first can worsen over time, so early treatment helps with proper diagnosis. Remember, a personal injury lawyer can actually negotiate medical bills during the personal injury claims process.
Call the Police to File an Accident Report
Under Illinois law, you must contact the police after any accident that resulted in over $500 in property damage, injury, or death. Failing to report an accident is against the law. Call 911 or the local police department to request an officer come to the scene.
Provide the dispatcher and officers with key details like the time, location, vehicles involved, injuries, and driving conditions. The police will interview you, the other drivers, and witnesses to file an official accident report. Get the report number and request a copy for your records. Having a police report will bolster your car insurance claim.
Exchange Insurance Information
Get the name, phone number, address, insurance details, and driver’s license information for the at-fault driver. Obtain the contact details of any passengers or crash witnesses as well. Having this documentation ensures you can get in touch with the liable driver later and file a claim with their insurance company.
Don’t admit fault or apologize to anyone after the accident, even if you want to be polite. If the at-fault driver’s insurance company wants a statement from you, be very cautious. Anything you say can potentially be used against you when insurance companies are determining liability. Simply exchange information and let your insurance company handle negotiations.
Document the Accident Scene
While waiting for the police, take pictures of the accident scene from various angles. Photograph the vehicles, occupants, license plates, skid marks, debris, weather conditions, road hazards like potholes, and any other relevant factors. Also, take pictures of your injuries like cuts and bruises. Eyewitness statements and contact details are also helpful for your case.
Consider Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced Bloomington car accident lawyer can be invaluable after a serious crash caused by another driver’s negligence. They understand how to deal with insurance companies and pursue maximum compensation through settlements or personal injury lawsuits. A lawyer guides you through the claims process and advocates on your behalf.
Car accident lawyers typically provide free consultations and only collect attorney fees if they are successful in recovering damages for you. Having strong legal representation can make a major difference in the outcome of your injury claim.
Do Not Admit Fault
When speaking with the police and insurance companies, stick to just the facts. Do not speculate on who caused the accident or accept any blame, even partial blame. Admitting fault can weaken your injury claim and give the at-fault driver’s insurer grounds to deny or reduce your settlement. Let the insurance investigation determine fault.
Focus on Getting Better
Make following your doctor’s treatment plans a top priority after your accident. The medical documentation of your injuries, treatment, and recovery progress can directly impact the value of your insurance claim. Gaps in treatment or not complying with recommended therapy can weaken a claim.
Don’t post accident-related information or photos on social media. Insurance companies monitor sites looking for evidence to use against claimants. Also, avoid signing any releases or settlements too quickly before you fully understand your legal rights. A lawyer can advise you on these issues.
Demand Payment from the At-Fault Driver’s Insurer
Pursuing compensation from the negligent driver’s insurance company (and your own insurer if needed) is key to recovering accident-related costs. However, the process can be complex, especially when insurers dispute fault or offer unfairly low settlements.
An attorney can calculate exactly how much your claim is worth based on medical expenses, lost wages, vehicle damage, pain and suffering, and other losses. They negotiate optimum settlements for clients or file lawsuits if necessary. Don’t leave money on the table by trying to handle legal negotiations yourself.
Being in any car accident can be scary, but knowing what steps to take after one that’s not your fault empowers you to protect yourself. Please consult with a personal injury lawyer and focus on your recovery while they handle demanding maximum compensation from insurers. With the right legal help, you can move on from even devastating crashes.
