If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you deserve an attorney who will fight for you every step of the way. A dedicated car accident lawyer Chicago will not only help you file a personal injury claim but also ensure that you receive the fair compensation you need to move forward. Our attorneys at Barney Hammond LLP will help you pursue justice for your personal injury case. Contact us today at 312-261-5683.
One of the most critical things to understand is the time frame for filing a claim. In Illinois, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if your injuries were not immediately apparent, you may have one year from the date you discovered they are permanent or likely to be.
Filing an Illinois Car Accident Report: Protecting Your Rights
Filing an Illinois Car Accident Report: Protecting Your Rights
After a car accident in Illinois, filing an incident report is essential. You should:
- Report the accident to the police immediately
- Seek medical attention
- File a report with the Illinois Department of Transportation within ten days
- Include all relevant details about your vehicle and the crash
These reports serve as key evidence in your case, helping our legal team fight for the justice and financial recovery you deserve. If you’ve suffered serious or long-term injuries, you need a Chicago car accident lawyer who will put your best interests first. Our team is committed to guiding you through every step, making sure you understand your options, and advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Seek Medical Treatment, Even If You Feel Fine
Many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately after a car accident. Even if you feel okay, seeing a doctor right away is crucial. A medical professional can diagnose hidden injuries like concussions or internal damage. Many times ribs can be broken and there can be internal bleeding if accidents are severe. Also, make sure to document your injuries and save all of the paperwork and receipts from your doctor. These can help your car accident lawyers Chicago to make a solid case for compensation.
Your doctor may also recommend the right treatment to prevent long-term complications. This could include physical therapy, medications, or even mental health counseling. Always request a copy of your medical report before leaving the doctor’s office. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s mistake and our attorneys are committed to making sure you are taken care of.
Exchange Information and Gather Evidence
Immediately after the accident, if you are able, make sure to collect the other driver’s name, contact info, and insurance details. It is also important to collect license plate numbers and vehicle descriptions and get the phone numbers of any witnesses.
The more accurate information you have, the stronger your case will be. We will use this evidence to hold the responsible party accountable and push for fair compensation. Information is critical to determine who is responsible for the accident and what options we have to hold the responsible party accountable.
Thorough documentation is one of the most powerful tools in securing a successful claim. If you are able, take photos of the accident scene from multiple angles that can help your case. Also, you should try to take pictures of any injuries and damage to all vehicles involved. If there are specific weather or traffic conditions that matter, you may want to take photos of those issues as well. You should also write down your account of what happened while it’s fresh in your memory. These details can help your car accident lawyer Chicago build the strongest possible case on your behalf.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Once you’re safe, call your insurance provider to report the accident. Many policies require immediate notification, and failing to do so could jeopardize your claim. Ask your insurer to send someone to document the damage to your vehicle, the scene of the accident, as well as the other driver’s vehicle. Providing us with these reports can be crucial in proving fault and securing a fair settlement.
Our Car Accident Lawyer Chicago Will Put Your Best Interests First
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you need an attorney who genuinely cares about your well-being and your future. Waiting too long can hurt your case, so it’s important to act now.
At Barney Hammond LLP, we take pride in fighting for our clients’ rights, keeping them fully informed, and ensuring they get the compensation they deserve. Our team will stand by your side, handle every detail of your case, and work tirelessly to secure justice for you. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward getting the compensation you need.