If you are involved in an Illinois car accident, there are several important steps you must take.
Get Appropriate Medical Care
If your injuries are serious, then let an ambulance transport you to a nearby hospital. Bear in mind that just because you don’t require hospitalization doesn’t mean that you don’t have serious injuries.Even if you only feel stiff or are in a little bit of pain, make an appointment with your doctor or at an urgent care center. Only a physician can tell whether your injuries are minor or if they could have long-term effects. If you don’t seek medical attention after your car accident, you may not be able to receive reimbursement for future health care costs. This is because it will be more difficult to prove your accident injuries were a direct result of your car accident if you wait weeks or months to seek treatment.
Assemble Evidence
You will need to provide evidence to demonstrate to an insurance company that you require compensation for your Illinois car accident injuries and related expenses. Get contact information from witnesses who saw the crash occur. Take photos of the accident scene, even if it’s just with your cell phone camera.Also; be sure to list and/or photograph your injuries, and keep a journal of your physical and emotional health in the days and weeks after your Illinois car accident.
Report the Accident
Most insurance companies require that you report any traffic accidents within a certain amount of time after they occur. Call your insurance agent or an official from your insurance agency as soon as possible. If the police responded to your car accident, you can and should request a copy of the police report.
Secure Legal Representation
Most importantly, contact a Chicago personal injury lawyer who has experience in handling Illinois car accident cases. They will advocate for your rights and try to ensure that the driver at fault and/or the insurance company reimburses you for all present and future costs related to your Illinois car accident.
During this time, recovering from your injuries should be your main focus, not dealing with insurance adjusters and escalating medical bills. Retaining the legal services of a Chicago personal injury lawyer can help you focus on getting better while your attorney deals with the insurance companies on your behalf.The Chicago personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. will be there with you through every step of your personal injury and fight to get the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Contact us today for a free case evaluation – (312) 263-1080