If you drive in Chicago, it’s essential to know the laws that apply to car accidents. You should learn the basics of what you do after an accident, the Illinois fault-based system, minimum liability coverage requirements, how comparative negligence may impact your claim, and the statute of limitations for car accidents in Chicago.
If you have been injured in a car accident in Chicago caused by another party, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages. You should promptly consult an experienced car accident attorney in Chicago to protect your rights and help you recover maximum compensation for your damages.
What Am I Required to Do After a Car Accident in Chicago?
You must stop your car and do not leave the scene of the accident until you are authorized to do so. Check for injuries and render aid if you are able. Call 911 or the police to report the accident and get emergency medical help. You should exchange contact information with the other drivers at the scene, and you must honestly answer the responding officer’s questions. However, you should not admit fault.
You must also immediately notify your insurance company of your accident. Most insurance policies require notification within a reasonable period, typically within one to two days after the accident.
Auto Liability Insurance Requirements in Chicago
Illinois is a fault-based state for purposes of car accidents. The driver responsible for the accident must cover the damages to other parties in the accident.
Illinois law requires you to purchase liability insurance coverage in at least the following amounts:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death per person.
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death per accident.
- $20,000 for property damage per accident.
These minimum coverage amounts are often insufficient to compensate for all damages sustained in an accident involving severe injuries. If the at-fault party does not have adequate insurance coverage to pay your damages, our attorneys will examine whether there are additional sources of compensation to pay your damages.
Comparative Fault in Chicago Car Accident Cases
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are partially at fault in a car accident in Chicago, you may still be able to recover compensation if you are no more than fifty percent at fault. If you are more than fifty percent at fault, you will be barred from recovering damages.
If you are fifty percent or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your fault percentage. For example, if you are 30% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you may still recover $70,000 after your percentage of fault is deducted.
At Meyers & Flowers Trial Attorneys, we work diligently to avoid or minimize any fault assignment to our clients and to maximize their recovery.
Car Accident Personal Injury Claims Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations sets the deadline for filing a claim to recover compensation for your damages after a car accident in Chicago. If you miss your deadline, you will not be able to recover compensation.
The statute of limitations for car accident claims in Chicago is two years. This means you have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury suit to recover compensation for your damages.
There are rare exceptions to the two-year deadline, so you must consult an experienced Chicago car accident attorney to ensure you know your filing deadline.
Contact Meyers & Flowers Trial Attorneys Today
If you are involved in a Chicago car accident, you should promptly consult an experienced Chicago personal injury attorney to help you understand your obligations and rights.
Call (630) 824-3963 or complete the short form on our contact page and schedule a free consultation to discuss your Chicago car accident claim.