Step #1: Remain at the scene

Even if the accident is minor, you should stay at the scene until all matters have been resolved. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in Illinois. 

Step #2: Check for injuries

Following an accident, check yourself for injuries. Have each passenger do the same. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.

Note: Some accident-inflicted injuries may not be noticeable right away. If you begin to experience pain in the days after an accident, seek medical treatment. Keep any medical records and share them with your personal injury attorney.

Step #3: Move to safety, if possible 

Illinois law requires drivers involved in an accident to make every reasonable effort possible to avoid additional damage, meaning if you’re able to move your car to a safer location, it’s best to do so. 

If you’re unable to move your car, identify a safe place where you can wait for law enforcement to arrive.

Step #4: Call 911

Once you’re in a safe location, call 911 to report the accident. 

Note: The law enforcement officer at the scene will handle the filing of an incident or police report. But, if the accident results in death, bodily injury or property damage of $1,500 or more, you may be required to file a crash report with the Illinois Department of Transportation within 10 days. Your personal injury attorney can help you complete this crash report, if necessary.  

Step #5: Exchange information 

Illinois law requires that you exchange information with the other motorists involved in an accident, including your name, address, and registration number. You should also be prepared to provide your driver’s license number and insurance policy information. 

Step #6: Document the scene 

If you can, take photos of the scene of the accident. Make sure to capture images of damage to the vehicles involved and the surrounding area. 

Note: Save these images, along with other materials related to the accident such as the police report, contact information for those involved, and medical records, to share with your personal injury attorney.

Step #7: Get witness details

If there were other motorists or pedestrians around at the time of the accident, collect their contact information, including their name, address and phone number.

Step #8: Contact a personal injury attorney

After you’ve been in an accident, having an experienced advocate on your side can make all the difference. Call FeganScott Injury Law for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Note: Illinois has time periods during which you can file a lawsuit for personal injuries from a car accident. You should consult with a personal injury attorney sooner rather than later to make sure that your claims are not barred.

Step #9: Notify your insurance company

Contact your insurance company to notify them about the accident. Most insurers require that policyholders provide notice of an accident within a certain time frame, and most have an online accident reporting portal to simplify the process.

Note: If the other party’s insurance representative asks questions you’re uncomfortable answering during the reporting process, you’re not required to answer them. You’re not even required to speak with the other party’s insurance company. Your personal injury attorney will advise you on all insurance-related communications.