What to Do After a Car Accident in Chicago: A Legal Checklist

Getting into a car accident can be terrifying and overwhelming. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, knowing what to do immediately after an accident can help protect both your health and your legal rights. Here’s a step-by-step checklist from the experienced personal injury attorneys at Duran Law Offices.

Step 1: Prioritize Safety

• Move your vehicle to a safe area if possible.

• Turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Step 2: Check for Injuries

• Call 911 immediately, even if injuries seem minor.

• Preserve medical records from care actually received, including the symptoms and findings documented at each visit. Patients and licensed medical professionals decide on care independently of a claim; Duran Law Offices does not direct testing or treatment.

Step 3: Call the Police

• Request a police report. It’s crucial for insurance and legal claims.

• Provide honest but limited information—avoid admitting fault.

Step 4: Document the Scene

• Take photos of the damage, location, road conditions, and any injuries.

• Gather witness names and contact information.

Step 5: Exchange Information

• Collect the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance info, and license plate number.

Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company

• Report the accident but avoid giving a recorded statement without legal advice.

Step 7: Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

• An attorney can protect your rights, handle negotiations, and fight for fair compensation.

At Duran Law Offices, we’ve helped countless Chicago residents recover damages after car accidents. Contact us today for a free consultation.