Illinois car accident attorney Josh Rorscheib with the Bloomington personal injury firm Onward Injury Law discusses what the process should look like after a major car accident to ensure justice and compensation.
The winter weather in Illinois often accounts for an increase in accidents. Icy roads and reduced visibility can often lead to serious one-person accidents, two-car collisions and even multiple-car pile-ups on state roads and interstate roads.
"Driving conditions in winter add an extra layer to the hazards on the road," Rorschbach said. "Careful driving is important in these circumstances, but accidents can happen despite our best efforts. Nevertheless, when someone is injured as a result of an accident that was not their fault, they may be entitled to compensation."
Rohrscheib, who has helped people throughout Central Illinois who were injured or lost loved ones in car accidents, said handling all the details after a serious car accident requires diligence. "While the circumstances surrounding each accident are different, there are five key things that every person should do after recovering from a wreck," he added.
5 things you need to do immediately after a car accident
Be safe
It is important to take safety measures immediately after you have been in a car accident. Check the medical status of all parties involved - including yourself - and seek emergency medical services by dialing 911 if necessary.
Then, Rohrscheib said, assess your surroundings and make sure your vehicle and any debris aren't posing a danger to other drivers.
Bring in local law enforcement
Whenever you are in a car accident, the police should be involved. This is especially true if any party involved in the accident is injured.
"When we're in an accident it's hard for us to keep a clear mind," Rohrscheib said. "But police are trained in these types of situations and can make sure everything is handled properly – from getting the necessary emergency services to collecting evidence."
Having a police report of the incident can bolster your personal injury claim when it comes time to pursue legal action against the at-fault party, Rorschach said.
Gather Contact Information and Evidence
While the police will collect evidence along with statements, it is always a good idea to collect accident-scene evidence for yourself as well. If you are physically able, make sure you have contact information and copies of statements for all parties involved, including witnesses.
“You should also take photographs. Make sure you capture all the damage done to the car and even take videos or photos of your injuries so you have a record," Rorschach said.
Contact an Illinois Car Accident Attorney
One of the most important things you can do after a car accident is to contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in car accident cases, Rohrscheib said. You may be receiving medical care, getting your car fixed, or possibly even making funeral arrangements for a loved one. You don't want to add to your stress with the details of a car accident claim.
A car accident attorney can handle all the legal proceedings for you so that you can focus solely on healing – whatever that may be for your situation.
Contact your insurance company
Your insurance company will contact the other driver's insurance company regarding the incident. Once you are able, you should call your insurance provider to inform them of the accident and give them the details of what happened.
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