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Lawyers oversee legal matters on behalf of their clients. When looking for one, you need to know the legal services you need. In the case of a car accident claim, a lawyer will oversee all communications and negotiations between you and the insurance company. The lawyer will also help you file court-mandated documents within the statute of limitations (time limits) for filing those documents. 
An insurance claim is a request for benefits or compensation for damages that result from a motor vehicle accident. The claim is typically made with the insurance company representing the driver who is at fault.  Both drivers will need to report the accident to their insurance companies, however, in accordance to the requirements of their individual policies. Many car insurance claims are made each day around the nation, and the process has become relatively standardized. That doesn’t mean the insurance company won’t push back if they believe they shouldn’t recognize their liability, but the process will be similar to most other accidents of the same type.
Chicago car accident attorneys are likely going to attempt to reach a settlement with the insurance company before going to court. The majority of car accident lawsuits are settled out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, or if they have decided to argue fault for the accident, you could find yourself going to court.  
If you were injured in a trucking accident in Chicago, Berwyn, Oak Lawn, Cicero, or a nearby community, call the injury attorneys at Lloyd Miller Law for a free consultation.

Important Steps to Follow after an Auto Accident

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Important Steps to Follow after an Auto Accident

Millions of auto accidents occur each year, and many of them result in injuries and property damage. Following a few simple steps after an auto accident can mitigate potential problems down the road.

Avoid Leaving the Scene

Though it might initially appear that there are no injuries, the initial shock of an accident can mask symptoms that could start appearing within a few minutes after the event. If there is an injury to anyone, you can be criminally liable for leaving the scene. An exception arises if the accident occurred in a remote area and the other driver appears suspicious. If this occurs, call the police if you have a cell phone, and do not exit your vehicle.

Check On All Drivers and Parties

Be sure that everyone involved is free of injury. If there are injuries, however, immediately call for emergency assistance. Do not move anyone unless it is a life-threatening situation such as a burning vehicle or leaking gasoline.

Exchange Info with Other Parties Involved

Exchange identifying and insurance information with all involved drivers unless a person is injured. (Any information needed from that person will be obtained by police in a subsequent police report.)

Do not talk or discuss the accident facts with anyone except the police. Carefully give the investigating officer your estimates of time, distances, speeds and observations. Obtain the badge number of the officer, who might also give you a card with the police investigation number to use when getting a copy of the report.

Conduct Your Own Investigation

It’s helpful to take photos of all vehicles involved and of the accident scene. Many cell phones today have built-in cameras that allow users to take on-the-fly photographs. If there are witnesses, talk to them and get their names and telephone numbers.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance agent and report the facts of the accident. If you are unsure of your injuries, advise your agent that you will be seeking a medical evaluation. Do not give any written or recorded statements to anyone, especially the other party’s insurer, until you consult with a motor vehicle accident attorney.

Get Medical Attention

Obtain prompt medical attention and keep a diary of your visits, treatment, symptoms and the effect your injuries are having on your life.

Contact an Attorney

An attorney can advise you of your rights under the law and make sure all to pursue compensation available under the law.

Illinois resident should seek the help of an experienced Chicago motor vehicle accident attorney.

About the Author

Kurt D. Lloyd is a plaintiff’s trial lawyer who focuses on medical malpractice and other catastrophic injury cases. He lives in Chicago and represents injured clients throughout Illinois. He is also the founder of Lloyd Law Group, Ltd.

Chicago accident lawyer Kurt D. Lloyd