The following is a list of suggestions if involved in an motor vehicle accident.

If you have been involved in an accident, please contact us immediately. Every accident is unique, and we may have important instructions that are different than what is listed below. Also, there are time limitations for filing lawsuits in Illinois and other states. Call 312-399-8988 for 24-hour lawyer assistance.

AT THE ACCIDENT

1. Stop if you are involved in an accident. Do not leave the scene, as there can be criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident.
   
   
2. Make sure everyone in your car is not injured. If there are serious injuries, do not try to move them unless absolutely necessary. If you are injured and in pain, and it is safe to remain in your car, do not move until emergency personnel arrives.
   
   
3. Call the police and let them know if there are injuries. Make sure a police report is made (you will need one later for any type of claim).
   
   
4. Move your car off the road if you can do so safely. Use your flashing hazard lights and use emergency flares if you have them.
   
   
5. Do not get into an argument or confrontation with the other driver.
   
   
6. Obtain the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information of all the drivers involved. Take down license plate numbers and vehicle information.
   
   
7. Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident. Make sure to give any witness information to the police at the scene.
   
   
8. Do not accept fault or blame for the accident.
   
   
9. Cooperate with police officers and make sure you get a chance to tell them what happened.
   
   
10. If injured, in pain, or "shaken up", let the police officers or other emergency workers know how you are feeling. If you are in pain, do not refuse medical care. Let an ambulance take you to the hospital to get checked by a doctor.

AFTER THE ACCIDENT

1. If injured or in pain, get checked as soon as possible by a doctor. If the accident was after normal business hours, go to an emergency room.
   
   
2. If police were not on the scene, go to the nearest police station and make a police report. If the other party involved refuses, go there alone and make the report.
   
   
3. Contact our office as soon as possible after the accident. The sooner we know what is going on, the better we can help you. Call 312-399-8988 24 hours to speak directly to a lawyer.
   
   
4. Do not speak to or try to handle the claim with the other driver's insurance company before consulting with a personal injury lawyer. Do not give a written or recorded statement to the other driver's insurance company, as such statement can be used against you in settlement negotiations.
   
   
5. Immediately report the accident/claim to your own insurance company. There may be notice requirements in your own policy, and you want to make sure you are covered for the accident. We would recommend that you speak to a personal injury lawyer before talking to your own insurance company. If a claim is made against you, immediately forward the paperwork to your insurance company.

WARNING: STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS

In Illinois and other states there are time limitations for filing lawsuits and certain types of claims. It is very important that you speak to an injury lawyer soon after the accident so they can protect you from waiving any rights or claims.