As a driver in Chicago, you know that you require an active auto insurance policy before operating your vehicle. But after an accident, you may be unsure of what to expect from the insurance company, what their obligations are, or whether your policy limits will be enough to cover your losses. For this reason, we have provided more information below regarding the car insurance claims process below.
Illinois Car Accident Laws
Knowing what to do after being involved in a car accident in Chicago is critical, but one of the most important details to know is what part your auto insurance will play in your case.
Illinois is a fault state for car accidents. This means that if you are involved in a car accident and someone else is responsible for causing the accident, you will file a claim with the liable party’s auto insurer. In many cases, the insurance company will provide the injury victim with an injury settlement that meets their needs.
However, insurance companies are also for-profit, and by settling your claim, they lose money. The insurance adjuster will look for any reason they can find to reduce that amount. If this happens, and your Chicago car accident lawyer is unable to get them to settle fairly, heading to court may be your next best option.
It’s also important to know that the insurance company is obligated to settle only up to the maximum limits of the insured’s auto insurance policy. If the policy limits are not enough to cover your losses in full, pursuing a civil claim against the liable party could be the only way to recover maximum compensation for your economic and non-economic damages.
Car Insurance Requirements in Illinois
In order to be in compliance with Illinois auto insurance laws, you’ll need to have the following types and amounts of coverage:
- $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident in bodily injury liability coverage
- $20,000 in property damage liability coverage
- $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident in uninsured motorist bodily injury liability coverage
These are the state minimums. Many drivers opt into higher coverage policies. The higher your coverage, the more protection you personally have if you are ever found responsible for causing a Chicago car accident.
Unfortunately, if the person liable for your accident has the minimum coverage, and your losses exceed 25/50/20 as described above, you’ll have to pursue civil action in order to secure the compensation you deserve.
Get in Touch with a Car Accident Lawyer in Chicago
Although the car accident claims process can be overwhelming and, at times, disheartening, by understanding what to expect, you’ll always be one step ahead and ready to overcome any obstacles that may arise.
When you are ready to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation, call a reputable Chicago car accident lawyer at Lane Brown, LLC for help handling the insurance company. We can be reached by phone at 312-332-1400 or through the quick contact form below.
