Your immediate reaction to a car crash can have a positive or negative effect on your ability to recover money for your property damage, bodily injuries and other losses.
Below are key steps to take and mistakes to avoid if you have been in a crash in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois.
DO get help
The first move in any traffic accident is to assess whether you or others are injured. Call 911 to get immediate medical help for anyone who is hurt and to make sure your crash has been promptly reported to a law enforcement agency.
DON’T ignore the seriousness of a car crash
Even if you have no visible injuries or think you escaped with only minor cuts and scrapes, still visit a doctor as soon as possible. Due to shock, you may not realize that you have suffered a serious back, neck, head, organ or other injury. Tell your doctor what happened and make sure you are thoroughly examined. Follow your doctor’s recommended treatment plan.
DO document the accident scene
Before they are towed away, take photos of the exterior and interior of all vehicles involved. You should also get photos of the vehicle license plates, skid marks, broken glass, nearby traffic controls and the surrounding area. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the crash. Get witness names and contact information as well. Document the accident scene.
DON’T overreact at the accident scene
Being in a car crash is a stressful situation. However, you won’t be able to take important steps unless you are as calm as possible under the circumstances. Don’t admit fault. Don’t assign blame. Cooperate with police and emergency responders. Answer questions honestly and succinctly.