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If you’ve just been in a crash, what you do in the next hours and days can protect your health — and can also make a major difference in the value and strength of your injury claim. Insurance companies often begin building a defense immediately, and many people unknowingly harm their case by delaying treatment, giving recorded statements, or signing documents too early.
This guide explains what to do after a car accident in Illinois, what to avoid, and how to protect your rights. If you’d like to speak with a lawyer, Parker & Parker offers free consultations and there is no fee unless we win.
Free consultation. No fee unless we win. We can review your crash report, medical records, and insurance issues at no cost.
Whenever possible, call law enforcement so a report is created. A crash report can become a key piece of evidence — especially in disputed liability cases like intersection crashes.
Tip: Take more photos than you think you need. Evidence disappears quickly.
Many injury symptoms begin later. This is extremely common with whiplash, concussion symptoms, and back injuries. Insurance companies often argue: “If you didn’t go to the doctor immediately, you weren’t really hurt.” The safest approach is early evaluation and consistent follow-up.
Related: If your injuries are being labeled “minor,” read our guide on how to prove a soft tissue injury claim in Peoria.
Insurers are trained to reduce payouts. Many people weaken their case by giving statements too early or signing releases before they understand their injuries.
Important: If you sign a release of liability, your claim may be closed forever — even if symptoms worsen. Read our warning on release of liability forms.
Related: Learn how insurers minimize injury cases and what you can do in Why some victims get low settlement offers (and what to do).
If you’re injured, you will likely need to prove not just medical bills — but also how the injury changed your life. Keep a simple case file so you don’t lose important details.
Related: See what affects settlement value in What Affects a Car Accident Settlement in Peoria, IL?
Want a deeper breakdown? These articles explain settlement value factors, insurer tactics, and what to do after a crash.
Not sure what to do next? We can guide you through the insurance process and protect your claim.
Get to safety, call 911 if anyone may be injured, exchange information, document the scene, gather witnesses, and seek medical care promptly. Avoid recorded statements or signing releases before understanding your injuries and legal options.
Yes. Many injuries appear later. Early evaluation protects your health and prevents insurers from arguing that you weren’t injured.
You generally do not have to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. It can harm your claim. Speak with a lawyer first.
Be cautious. Quick offers are often made before the full extent of injuries is known. If you sign a release, your claim may be permanently closed even if symptoms worsen.
Many injury claims must be filed within two years, but some cases have different timelines. Speak with a lawyer early to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Want the main overview page? Visit our Peoria Car Accident Lawyer hub for a complete guide to Illinois car accident claims and next steps.
