A car accident can turn your life upside down in an instant. Beyond the shock and confusion, every step you take in the minutes and hours after a crash can have a major impact on your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
If you’ve been injured in Chicago, knowing exactly what to do can help protect your claim and strengthen your case. Below are five critical actions to take right away.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your priority is safety. Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. Even if injuries seem minor, call 911 immediately.
Illinois law requires you to report accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. In Chicago, the police will respond to the scene, document the crash, and file an official accident report—an essential piece of evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later.
Tip: Never refuse medical attention at the scene. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be apparent right away.
2. Move to Safety, But Don’t Leave the Scene
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent another collision. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares, if available.
Leaving the scene before police arrive can hurt your credibility and may even lead to criminal charges in certain situations. Stay put until you’ve spoken with law enforcement and exchanged information with the other driver.
3. Document Everything at the Scene
In Chicago, traffic accidents can involve multiple drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians, and details can quickly get lost in the chaos. Use your phone to collect as much evidence as possible:
- Photos and video of vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic lights, weather conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Contact and insurance information from the other driver(s).
- Names and phone numbers of witnesses who saw the accident happen.
These details can help establish fault, especially if the other driver changes their story later.
4. Seek Medical Care Right Away
Even if you think you’re fine, see a doctor as soon as possible—ideally within 24 hours. Car accidents often cause injuries that worsen over time, such as whiplash, soft tissue damage, or back injuries.
Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates a record linking your injuries directly to the crash. Insurance companies often argue that delays in treatment mean your injuries weren’t serious or were caused by something else.
5. Contact a Chicago Car Accident Attorney Before Talking to the Insurance Company
Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to minimize payouts—not protect your interests. You may be pressured to give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement that’s worth far less than your claim.
Before speaking with the at-fault driver’s insurer, talk to an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer. An attorney can handle communications, gather additional evidence (such as traffic camera footage), and calculate the full value of your damages—including medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Why Acting Quickly Matters in Chicago
Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims; however, waiting to take action can make it more challenging to find evidence, locate witnesses, or challenge the insurance company’s version of events.
In a busy city like Chicago, traffic camera footage may be erased within days, and eyewitness memories fade quickly. Acting immediately can give your lawyer the best chance to build a strong case.
Injured in a Car Accident?
A car accident can leave you feeling shaken and overwhelmed, but the steps you take right after the crash can make all the difference in protecting your rights. By prioritizing safety, documenting everything, getting prompt medical care, and seeking legal advice, you’ll be in a stronger position to recover the compensation you deserve.
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a Chicago car accident, turn to Your Chicago Lawyer. Contact us today for a free consultation.