Chicago Car Accident Injury Lawyers
Since 1992, Cogan & McNabola, P.C., Attorneys at Law, have helped thousands of people in the Chicago region and throughout Illinois obtain the full and fair money damages they are entitled to for injuries and financial damages after a motor vehicle accident. Many people who call us for legal answers have never been involved in an injury accident before. We hope this page answers some of your basic questions about the claim process. For answers to your specific questions, contact our law firm to arrange a free consultation.
- At the scene of the accident: Make sure the police are called to the scene immediately. Call 911 and be prepared to give specific details about your location and any injuries that might have occurred. While waiting for the police, make sure you and your party remain together, safe from traffic. Do not engage in any discussions about the accident with anybody at the scene. Do not offer apologies for the accident. Even saying, "I'm sorry that happened," may be taken as an admission of fault. If there are eyewitnesses, do what you can to make sure they do not leave before the police arrive.
- When the police arrive: Make sure every injured party receives the full medical attention required. When you talk to the police, make sure you are out of hearing range of other parties involved in the accident. Give complete, accurate statements. Make no admission of fault or responsibility. Just give the facts as you recall them.
- Get the other driver's insurance information: After talking to the police, exchange full and accurate insurance and contact information with the other driver. If possible, get accurate contact information from all passengers in the vehicles involved, as well as eyewitnesses.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you do not think you were injured, get checked out by a doctor. Many types of injuries, including serious brain injuries, do not show symptoms for several days following the accident. Even if you did not hit your head or other parts of your body, sudden deceleration can cause serious internal damage.
- Report the accident to your insurance company: Give your insurance company the full record of the individual's name, his or her insurance company's information and other information you recorded at the scene. If the other driver was uninsured, you will be filing a claim against your own UIM policy. Do not engage in a conversation with your insurance adjuster about a possible settlement for your injuries.
- Do not talk to an insurance adjuster: It pays to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney before you talk with an insurance company agent about accepting a settlement. Simply say that you are not prepared to talk with anybody about a settlement.
- Schedule a free consultation at Cogan & McNabola: Our attorneys have helped thousands of individuals and families recover full and fair compensation from insurance companies. We will answer your questions and help you decide whether you have a case for pursuing a higher settlement or jury verdict than what the insurance company is prepared to offer.
We Offer a No-Cost, No-Pressure, No-Obligation Consultation to Discuss Your Rights
From our offices in downtown Chicago our personal injury litigation attorneys represent clients in communities throughout Cook County and Illinois. Learn more about ways we can help you receive the compensation you need for your physical and financial recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.
