Car accidents can be disorienting, painful, and overwhelming—especially in a busy city like Chicago. Whether it’s a minor fender bender on Lake Shore Drive or a serious collision on the Kennedy Expressway, knowing what steps to take immediately after a crash can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to receive compensation.
At Hale and Monico, we help Chicago residents navigate the legal aftermath of car accidents every day. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Chicago.
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call 911
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If the accident is minor and your vehicle is drivable, move to a safe location—such as the shoulder of the road—to prevent additional collisions.
Even in minor accidents, it’s essential to report the crash to law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident, which can be crucial if you pursue an insurance claim or legal case.
Step 2: Exchange Information and Document the Scene
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), including:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
Take photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Document:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signals or signs
- Any visible injuries
- Skid marks or debris
If there are witnesses, get their names and contact details as well.
Step 3: File a Police Report
In Illinois, you must report an accident to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) if:
- It results in injury or death
- Property damage exceeds $1,500 (or $500 if a driver is uninsured)
Most Chicago accidents will meet this threshold. Make sure to get a copy of the police report for your records—it can be vital for insurance and legal purposes.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay, you should get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries (like whiplash or internal trauma) might not show symptoms right away. Prompt medical care not only protects your health but also provides documentation that can support your injury claim.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider to report the accident. Provide them with the facts but avoid admitting fault or giving detailed statements until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
Step 6: Contact a Chicago Car Accident Attorney
Before speaking to the other driver’s insurance company or signing any settlement offers, it’s wise to consult with an experienced Chicago car accident lawyer. An attorney can:
- Evaluate your claim
- Help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Deal with insurance adjusters on your behalf
- Represent you in court, if necessary
At Hale and Monico, we offer free consultations and don’t charge a fee unless we win your case.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in a car accident is stressful, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can make a big difference. Following this guide will help protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Chicago, contact Hale and Monico today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Call us at 312-229-0677 or fill out our contact form to get started.