Smith & Barr LLP

What should I do after a car accident in Chicago?

After a car accident in Chicago, the order that matters is: get checked by a doctor, report the crash, collect what you can at the scene, and be careful about what you say to an insurance adjuster before you understand the claim. None of that requires a lawyer on day one, but all of it affects what a claim looks like later.

Get medical care first

Go to an emergency room or an urgent care the same day, even if you feel fine. Neck, back and head injuries routinely show up a day or two later, and a gap between the crash and the first medical record is the single most common thing an insurer points at. Follow the treatment plan you are given and keep every discharge sheet, referral and receipt.

Report the crash and gather evidence

Illinois requires a crash report when there are injuries or meaningful property damage, and the responding officer's report becomes the spine of the file. At the scene, photograph both vehicles from several angles, the whole intersection, the traffic controls and any skid marks. Get the other driver's insurance details and the names and numbers of anyone who saw it happen. Witnesses become unreachable within a week.

Be careful on the insurance call

The other driver's insurer will call quickly and will ask for a recorded statement and a signed medical authorization. You are not required to give either one. You can confirm the basic facts, such as where, when and which vehicles were involved, and say you are still treating and will follow up in writing. Do not estimate your injuries or accept a quick settlement while you are still seeing a doctor.

When it is worth involving a lawyer

Talk to an attorney if anyone was injured, if fault is being disputed, if the insurer is pressing for a recorded statement, or if a commercial vehicle or rideshare was involved. A consultation costs nothing and you leave knowing whether you have a claim worth pursuing, which is a useful answer either way.