The deadline to file a car accident claim depends on the statute of limitations in your state. In Illinois, for example, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim and five years for property damage. However, exceptions may apply, such as cases involving minors or government vehicles. It’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to avoid missing crucial deadlines.

After a car accident, prioritize safety and seek medical attention if needed. Call 911 to report the accident and wait for police to arrive. Gather evidence by taking photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver but avoid admitting fault. If there are witnesses, collect their statements and contact details. Finally, notify your insurance company and consider speaking with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offers.

If another driver was at fault, their insurance should cover your medical expenses through their liability coverage. However, medical bills can accumulate before a settlement is reached. Your own health insurance or MedPay coverage (if you have it) can help pay for immediate expenses. If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply. A personal injury lawyer can help explore all options to ensure you’re not left paying out of pocket.

If the at-fault driver does not have insurance or lacks sufficient coverage, you may need to rely on your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Many states require this coverage as part of auto insurance policies. If you do not have UM/UIM coverage, you may have to pursue legal action against the driver personally, though collecting damages can be difficult. Consulting a lawyer can help you explore all available recovery options.

Yes, in many states, you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can seek compensation as long as you were less than 50% at fault. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you would receive $80,000.

The time it takes to settle a car accident claim varies based on the complexity of the case, severity of injuries, and cooperation of insurance companies. Some cases settle in a few weeks, while others, especially those involving serious injuries or disputed liability, can take months or even years. Having an experienced lawyer can help speed up the process and ensure you receive a fair settlement rather than accepting a low offer just to resolve the case quickly.

Be cautious of quick settlement offers from insurance companies. These initial offers are often lowball settlements designed to minimize payouts before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and damages. Accepting an early settlement prevents you from seeking additional compensation later, even if you discover more serious injuries. Always consult a lawyer before agreeing to any offer from an insurance company.

When speaking to the insurance company after an accident, it’s important to be cautious and avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you. Stick to the basic facts, such as the date, time, and location of the accident. Do not speculate about fault or provide detailed information about your injuries before you have been fully evaluated by a doctor. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to minimize claims, so it’s best to avoid recorded statements or signing any settlement offers without consulting an attorney. If you are unsure about what to say, a lawyer can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation.