What Is the Claims Process for a Car Crash Injury?

 Posted on June 22, 2024 in Auto Accidents

Being injured in a car accident is a traumatic experience. Many times, injuries from collisions are severe and victims want to be compensated for damages resulting from the injuries. Not many victims, however, are aware of the process or know what steps to take. This adds confusion to an already confusing situation.

A simple rule to follow is that when in doubt, consult an Illinois car accident attorney. This article will briefly explain the process for claiming compensation for damages after a car accident.

Take Stock of Your Injuries

The process begins with the accident that causes the injury. Account for your injuries. Notice how many there are and how severe they are. Also try to remember as much about the crash as possible, especially details that show it was the other driver’s fault. Writing down details as soon as possible can be very helpful later on.

Call the Police 

Illinois law requires people who are involved in a car accident to file a police report, especially if there are bodily injuries involved. Call 911 at the scene of the accident or, if you cannot, report the accident to the police online.

Get Medical Treatment

Make sure you get treated for your injuries right away. This is not just important for your health, it is also important evidence you will want to include in your claim because it provides proof of injury.

Call Your Attorney

This is one of the most important steps. The sooner you call your attorney, the more protection he or she can give you throughout the process. This includes dealing with the insurance company.

Legal Investigation

Your attorney will investigate the facts of the accident independently. Answer any questions your lawyer asks and provide him or her with any evidence you have, such as dash cam footage.

File an Insurance Claim

File a claim with your insurance company to get compensation for your injury and damage to your vehicle. In many cases, you may want to file a third-party insurance claim, which is filing a claim with the other driver’s insurer.

Demand Letter

Your attorney will send a letter to the insurance company demanding compensation for damages, both economic and non-economic (such as pain and suffering).

Negotiation

Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company for a settlement. Studies show that car crash victims who are represented by a lawyer reach on average settlements that are 3.5 times higher than those who negotiate alone.

Settlement or Trial

If you agree to a settlement, your attorney will review the terms and you will sign the agreement if your lawyer advises you to do so. If you do not reach a settlement, your attorney can take the case to court.

Contact a Cook County, IL Car Accident Lawyer

The claims process after a car accident can be confusing and daunting. Bring in your Elk Grove Village, IL car accident attorney in the early stages to help make the process smoother and achieve a higher settlement. Car accident victims choose Kaiser Law because our excellent attorneys aggressively defend their rights and negotiate fiercely on their behalf. Call 630-274-4400 to add your name to the list, and let us help you get the best outcome possible.