A practical guide to the steps you need to take to protect yourself if you have been injured in a car accident in Illinois.
1
Are you injured?
If you are injured go to the hospital to get yourself evaluated. Sometimes it takes several days for the signs and symptoms of an injury to appear. Have yourself evaluated immediately
2
Call the Police.
Call the police and have them fill out the appropriate paper work to document how the accident occurred. The police will take statements from both parties and get everyone's insurance information. (The law requires all drivers in Illinois to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance)
3
Contact your insurance company.
Don't delay in reporting this claim to your own insurance company. Often times you will have no fault medical payments insurance that will help defray the cost of your medical expenses.
4
Do not give a statement to the other drivers insurance company.
It is imperative that you do not give any statements to the agents of the other drivers insurance company. These statements will only be used against you should the dispute turn into litigation.
5
Contact an experienced lawyer.
Trying to negotiate with an insurance company on your own is a bad idea. They do not have your best interests at heart. Hire an experienced personal injury lawyer to negotiate these waters on your behalf.
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