Being involved in an accident can be a frightening and stressful situation. If you have been injured in an accident, this blog is intended to provide useful information about what to do, and what not to do, in order you protect your legal rights.
Do:
Get the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance.
Call the police and have the police make a report.
Seek immediate medical attention if you think you are injured, and request an ambulance if necessary.
If you are able, make sure to get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Witnesses can help you prove how the accident happened and establish that you were not the at-fault driver.
If you are able, take pictures of your vehicle, any other vehicles involved in the accident, and your injuries. Photographs are great pieces of evidence that will help you prove your case against the at-fault driver. The Illinois Supreme Court has also held that photographs of vehicles after an accident are admissible in court.
Consult with a personal injury attorney if you would like to file a claim against the at-fault driver for your injuries, or if you have any questions about filing a lawsuit. Most personal injuries attorneys offer free consultations.
Do Not:
Do not delay in seeking medical treatment if you are injured. If you wait to seek treatment, insurance companies and defense attorneys will often argue that your delay suggests that you were not seriously injured, or that you are faking your injuries.
Do not speak with the at fault driver’s insurance company. The at-fault driver’s insurance company will record your call, and will seek to illicit subtle admissions from you that may hurt your chances to receive full and fair compensation for your injuries.