If you were just in a car accident in or near Peoria, IL, the most important things to do are check for injuries, call 911, and exchange information with the other driver. After that, document the scene, see a doctor even if you feel fine, and speak with a personal injury attorney before talking to any insurance company. Taking these steps in order can protect your health, your case, and your right to compensation.
Car accidents happen fast, and the minutes right after a crash can feel like a blur. This guide walks you through what to do, step by step, so you know exactly how to protect yourself if you’re ever in this situation.
Immediate Steps at the Scene
The first few minutes after a crash matter most. What you do here can affect your safety and any injury claim you may file later.
Check for Injuries and Call 911
- Check yourself and any passengers for injuries first.
- Call 911 right away, even if the accident seems minor. A police report creates an official record of what happened.
- Stay calm and avoid moving anyone who may have a neck or back injury unless there is immediate danger, like a fire.
Move to Safety, If You Can
- If the vehicles are drivable and no one is seriously hurt, move to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot.
- Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you.
- If a vehicle cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt on until help arrives, if it’s safe to do so.
Exchange Information
Get the following from the other driver:
- Full name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- License plate number
It also helps to get contact information from any witnesses. They may be able to confirm what happened if there’s a dispute later.
Document the Accident Scene
Good documentation can make a real difference if you later need to prove what happened and who was responsible. You have a powerful tool in your pocket or purse, your cellphone. Now is the time to use it to document the scene, those around you and your injuries.
Take Photos and Videos
- Photograph all vehicles involved, from multiple angles.
- Capture license plates, road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signs or signals.
- Take pictures of any visible injuries.
Write Down What You Remember
As soon as you’re able, write a brief account of what happened while it’s still fresh. Include the time, weather, road conditions, and anything the other driver said at the scene.
Get the Police Report Number
Ask the responding officer for the report number or how to obtain a copy later. This report often becomes an important piece of evidence.
Get Medical Attention, Even If You Feel Fine
Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bruising, may not show symptoms right away. Seeing a doctor within a day or two of the accident does two things: it protects your health, and it creates a medical record that connects your injuries to the crash.
Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and any work notes related to missed time. These documents may be needed later if you pursue a claim for your injuries.
What to Do About Insurance and Legal Steps
This is where many people make mistakes that can hurt their case, often without realizing it.
Be Careful What You Say to Insurance Adjusters
You are generally required to report the accident to your own insurance company. However, you are not required to give a detailed statement to the other driver’s insurance adjuster right away. Adjusters may try to get you to say something that sounds like you’re admitting fault, even when you’re not.
Understand Illinois Fault Rules
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. In general terms, this means you may still recover compensation even if you were partly at fault for the accident, as long as your share of fault is not greater than the other party’s. Your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault. Because these calculations can get complicated, it’s worth having an attorney review the details of your specific accident.
Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney Before Settling
Insurance companies may offer a quick settlement soon after the accident. In some cases, this amount may not fully cover your medical bills, lost wages, or long-term care needs. Speaking with an attorney before you sign anything can help you understand what your claim may actually be worth.
This is where working with a firm like Schierer & Ritchie, LLC can help. Attorney Charles Schierer brings a unique perspective to car accident cases in Peoria and the surrounding area. Before representing everyday people, he worked on the corporate and defense side, which gives him insight into how insurance companies build their cases. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you can learn more about how S&R Trial Lawyers approach these claims here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I call the police after a minor car accident in Illinois?
Yes, in most cases it’s a good idea to call the police even for a minor accident. A police report can serve as an official record, which may help if there’s ever a dispute about what happened.
Do I need a lawyer if the other driver’s insurance offers me a settlement?
It’s generally a good idea to have an attorney review any settlement offer before you accept it. Early offers may not account for future medical needs or lost income, so a second opinion could help you avoid accepting less than your claim may be worth.
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Illinois?
Illinois has a statute of limitations that limits how long you have to file a personal injury claim after an accident. Because deadlines can vary by case, it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to understand your specific timeline.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident in Illinois?
You may still be able to recover compensation even if you were partly at fault, depending on the percentage of fault assigned to each party. An attorney can help you understand how this could apply to your situation.
Get Help After Your Car Accident
The steps you take right after a crash can shape your entire case. If you’re not sure what to do next, Schierer & Ritchie, LLC is ready to help, 24/7. Contact us for a free consultation to walk through your accident and your options.”
