Were you involved in a serious crash in Maywood? You are not alone. According to data from the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT), there were 776 motor vehicle collisions reported in Maywood in 2022. Put another way, there are an average of around two car accidents reported in the community each day. In 2022, there were 230 confirmed car accident injuries in Maywood.
The aftermath of a motor vehicle collision can be stressful and confusing. Knowing what to do can make a big difference. At Kennedy Watkins LLC, we help injured victims navigate complex legal claims. Our team wants to make sure you have the resources you can rely on. Here, our Maywood auto accident lawyer highlights five key things that you need to do after a serious crash.
- Stop Your Vehicle, Remain at the Scene, and Exchange Information
Under Illinois law, all motorists involved in a crash are required to stop their automobile, exchange information, and remain at the scene of the collision. Though, there is an important exception for medical emergencies. A severe injury always requires immediate care. At the scene of the crash, you should check yourself and your passengers. If possible, move vehicles out of the flow of traffic to prevent further incidents. You should also calmly exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registrations, and insurance policy details. As stressful as it can be, try to remain calm at the scene of the collision.
- Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Illinois requires the reporting of all motor vehicle collisions that result in any physical injuries or significant property damage. You should report the accident to a law enforcement agency as soon as possible. Contact the Maywood Police Department, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, or the Illinois State Police (ISP). You can call 911 to ensure that police and, if necessary, emergency medical services are dispatched to the scene as soon as possible. An official police report will document the incident, which can be vital for insurance claims and any legal actions that may follow. The police report serves as an impartial record that helps to document the crash. Make sure you take action to get a copy of the police report after the crash. A Maywood, IL car accident lawyer can help.
- Get Immediate Medical Attention for Any Injuries (Emergencies Come First)
Without question, your health and well-being are the top priority after a car accident in Maywood. Even if you feel as though your injuries are only modest, you need to see a doctor right away. Many of the most common motor vehicle accident injuries reported in Maywood—from whiplash to back pain to concussions—occur with a delayed onset. It is probable that you are more seriously hurt than actually realize at the scene of the crash. Medical records will also be key to bringing a legal claim. Without them, you cannot recover full and fair compensation for your injuries.
- Thoroughly Document the Motor Vehicle Collision
Illinois is a fault-based motor vehicle accident state. Each party to a crash in Maywood is responsible for their “share” of the blame. For this reason, it is imperative that your accident is documented to the best of your ability. You should gather detailed information about the accident. If you are able, take photographs of the scene—including vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. You should also try to collect names and contact information of witnesses who saw the accident occur. Keep records of all expenses related to the accident.
- Speak to a Maywood, IL Attorney Before an Insurance Adjuster
For the most part, auto accident injury claims are defended by insurance companies. Unfortunately, insurers are not looking out for your best interests. They want to resolve cases for less. Before discussing the accident with any insurance adjuster, you should schedule a free consultation with an experienced Maywood, IL auto accident lawyer. Remember, insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, and anything you say can impact your claim. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you understand what exactly you need to do to get access to the full and fair settlement that you deserve.
Car Crash Victims in Maywood Deserve the Maximum Compensation
Following a serious motor vehicle crash in Maywood, you need compensation to pay your bills and support your family. Illinois is a fault-based car crash state. Under Illinois law, injured victims have the right to seek compensation for the entire value of their damages from the at-fault party. With that being said, insurers want to pay out less. They care about their own bottom line—not what is best for victims and families. Our Maywood, IL car accident lawyers help injured victims maximize their recovery. Depending on the nature and severity of your crash, you may be able to recover for:
- Automobile repairs;
- Emergency room care;
- Medical bills;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of wages;
- Loss of earnings;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long-term disability;
- Loss of quality of life; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Why Trust Kennedy Watkins for a Car Accident Claim in Maywood, IL
Hurt in a car crash? It is normal to have a lot of questions about what comes next in your claim. At Kennedy Watkins LLC, we hold large insurance companies accountable. Our Maywood attorneys have a proven record of verdicts and settlements in complex claims. You do not have to manage the nuances of the legal claims process alone after a bad crash. During a free, confidential consultation, our firm will review your case, answer your questions, and develop a strategy for justice.
Contact Our Maywood Automobile Accident Lawyer Today
At Kennedy Watkins LLC, our Maywood car crash attorney puts forward the time and resources to fight for justice for injured victims. Hurt in a bad accident? Get in touch with us today for your no cost, no obligation initial appointment. We handle automobile accident claims in Maywood, Cook County, and throughout the wider region in Northern Illinois.