What Should I Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Illinois?

Imagine that you’re driving through Interstate 290, on your normal route home, and all of the sudden, another vehicle drifts from its lane and crashes into your car. You quickly pull over to the shoulder of the roadway, but the negligent driver is nowhere to be seen. What do you do?

Hit-and-run accidents have been on the rise across major U.S. cities, with a 13.7 percent increase in fatal accidents since 2009. Hit-and-runs can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, pedestrians, and bicyclists, who have limited protection from a direct impact. When motorists flee from the scene of a crime, it may be because they are intoxicated, underage, or driving illegally. Whatever the reason is, hit-and-run accidents often leave the victims feeling confused and angry.

When you encounter a hit-and-run type scenario, try your best to remain calm, and follow the steps below:

• Check for injuries. If you notice bleeding, dizziness, or head, neck or back pain, you should seek medical attention immediately.
• Contact local law enforcement to report the crime. While waiting for an officer to arrive, you should document the scene, and take photos of any damage. Do your best to provide a detailed description of the vehicle in question, and talk to nearby witnesses to get additional information.
• Contact your insurance company. Unfortunately, most car accident victims must collect from their own insurance policies if the responsible driver cannot be found. Upon notifying your insurer, you may be eligible to file for uninsured motorist coverage.
• Learn about the civil and criminal consequences. In Illinois, hit-and-run accidents are punishable by law. According to Illinois law 625 ILCS 5/11-401, failing to stop after an accident that causes personal injury or death to someone else is considered a Class 4 Felony. Offenders can face a prison sentence up to 15 years, and fines up to $20,000. Moreover, if the fleeing party is identified, you can file a lawsuit against them in civil court to recover punitive damages.
• Contact an experienced Illinois hit-and-run accident attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can provide the guidance and legal support you need to handle your situation.

The experienced Chicago car accident injury attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. are 100% committed to the safety and well-being of car accident victims from all walks of life. If a negligent driver has hurt you or your loved one, we will work our hardest to fight for the compensation you deserve. We believe that you should be compensated for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, that were caused by someone else.

Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan. Contact Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. today at (312) 236-2900 to discuss your legal options with one of our knowledgeable car accident injury attorneys today. We do not request legal fees unless you receive a monetary recovery.