If you’ve been injured in a traffic accident, you are probably asking, “What do I do after a car accident?” The immediate steps that you take after an accident can have a huge impact on whether or not your car insurance claim is successful. Follow these tips from our experienced Chicago car accident lawyers and make sure your injuries are treated, your rights are protected, and you’ve documented the scene fully.
What To Do After A Car Accident
Important Steps to Take
The State of Illinois’ publication, Rules of the Road, outlines what to do after a motor vehicle accident:
Pull Over to a Safe Place
After an auto accident, ensure the safety of you and your passengers. If your vehicle is operational, move it off the road quickly. If not, turn on your hazard lights and wait for help.
Do Not Leave the Scene of a Crash
Illinois law requires you to pull over after an accident; leaving the scene of an accident can result in fines and criminal charges.
Signal the Accident
To prevent serious injuries or further collisions, alert other drivers by using a reflective triangle, traffic cones, or road flares. Activate your emergency flashers.
Call 9-1-1
After an accident, promptly dial 9-1-1 to ensure a police report is filed and all parties involved receive necessary medical care.
File an Accident Report
Even if no one is injured and police don’t respond, you should still file an accident report. Even for a minor fender bender, you must report it by law.
Avoid Fines and Jail Time
Drivers who fail to report a car collision can face fines up to $2,500 and up to one year in jail.
Exchange Information
Share necessary details with the other driver:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance information—the other driver’s insurance company and insurance policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make and model of vehicle
- Vehicle owner’s name
Limit What You Say
Only share basic information with the other driver and police at the scene. Do not apologize or admit fault because it could be used against you. If asked about injuries, say you don’t know or will wait for a medical evaluation. Don’t agree to a recorded statement unless advised by your lawyer.
Talk to Eyewitnesses
Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses to the car accident and anyone else involved in the accident, as they can help if there’s a dispute. Ask police officers for written statements to back up your claim and retain the police report.
Take Photos of the Scene
Take photos at the accident scene before moving your vehicle to preserve evidence. Capture images of property damage, vehicle positions, road and weather conditions, traffic signs, emergency personnel, your injuries, and any contributing factors.
Note Details About the Scene
Document all details of the events before the accident, including your speed and direction. Note any traffic cameras or businesses that might have footage, which could assist your lawyer with insurance claims process.
What Should I Do if the Other Driver Does Not Stop at the Scene of the Accident?
If involved in hit and run car accidents, get as much information about the other driver as possible. Try to get:
- A description of the other car
- Their license plate number
- A driver description
- Any witness statements
Don’t chase the driver if you can’t get their information because it can be dangerous. Try to remember details about the driver and vehicle. A photo of the vehicle or license plate can help identify them. Report the incident to the police. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, file a claim with your own insurance company.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney for Help
Reach out to a car accident lawyer at The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers for legal guidance. Our lawyers are experienced in handling car accident claims in Chicago and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
(312) 223-1700