A car accident can turn your world upside down in an instant. One moment you’re heading to work or running errands, the next, you’re facing a damaged car, possible injuries, and endless insurance questions. The aftermath of a car accident can feel chaotic and confusing, especially on busy Chicago streets. Knowing what to do after a car accident can make all the difference in protecting your health, finances, and legal rights.
Below are the essential steps to take after a crash in Chicago.
Prioritize Safety and Medical Care
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 right away if anyone is hurt. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, get medical attention as soon as possible. Many common car accident injuries, like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, can take hours or even days to show symptoms.
Medical documentation is also vital for your auto accident claim. Having your injuries evaluated right away helps create a record that links your condition directly to the crash, which insurance companies can’t easily dispute later.
Call the Police
Always call the police after an accident, no matter how minor it seems. In Chicago, a police report is required for crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage, but it’s a good idea to get one for any collision.
The responding officer will document the scene, record statements, and determine if citations should be issued. This report becomes an essential piece of evidence when filing your insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Before leaving the scene, ask how you can obtain a copy of the report for your records.
Gather Information at the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, gather as much evidence as you can before leaving. Exchange names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information with all parties involved. Take clear photos of:
- Vehicle damage from multiple angles
- License plates
- The surrounding area, including skid marks and traffic signals
- Any visible injuries
If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information as well. Their testimony can be crucial in establishing fault later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Be truthful but brief; stick to the facts and avoid guessing about who was at fault or how serious your injuries might be. Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not yours. Anything you say could be used to minimize your payout or deny your claim.
Before providing a detailed statement or accepting a settlement offer, it’s wise to consult with Parente & Norem’s experienced car accident lawyers.
Contact Parente & Norem for a Free Case Evaluation
After a crash, an experienced attorney can make a major difference in how your case unfolds. A Chicago car accident lawyer from Parente & Norem can:
- Investigate the cause of your crash
- Collect and preserve critical evidence
- Handle communications with insurance companies
- Negotiate aggressively for full and fair compensation
Keep Detailed Records
Organization is key to a strong claim. Keep copies of all medical bills, repair estimates, receipts, and any written or digital communication related to the accident. Document your symptoms and recovery process, including missed work. Every piece of evidence helps strengthen your case for maximum compensation.
Protect Your Rights with Parente & Norem
At The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C., our attorneys have decades of experience fighting for car accident victims throughout Chicago. We know how to take on big insurance companies and win.
Call/Text 312.641.5926 or fill out a contact form here on our website to get started.
