Chicago Car Accident Lawyer
At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, our top-rated Chicago car accident attorneys have seen first-hand the toll that an auto accident injury can take on you and your loved ones. We have spent decades representing people who have been injured in car accidents or who have lost loved ones in fatal car accidents because of the carelessness of others.
Our auto accident attorneys have been trusted in Chicago for decades. Before you call another law firm, see our guide on how to know if you're hiring the best car accident lawyer in Chicago.
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According to the IDOT City Summary for Chicago (2023):
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There were over 153,000 total crashes in Chicago in 2023—nearly all of which were auto accidents.
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These crashes resulted in approximately 385 fatalities and 29,100 injuries.
Statewide, based on recent NHTSA data for Illinois:
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In 2022, there were 1,268 traffic-related fatalities across the state, including motor vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists nhtsa.gov.
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Of these, 63 percent occurred in urban areas, with the remaining 37 percent in rural locations.
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Car occupants accounted for about 37 percent of all traffic-related deaths.
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Large truck occupant fatalities were around 10 percent.
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Pedestrians represented approximately 16 percent of statewide traffic fatalities.
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Additionally, over 500 of the driver-involved fatalities in Illinois had blood alcohol levels above 0.08%, roughly 27 percent of those fatal accidents.
Car accident-related fatalities continue to climb in Chicago and throughout Illinois
Data from 2024 from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reveals sobering trends about the state’s roadway safety. In the most current report, Illinois saw 1,196 fatal car crashes resulting in 1,241 lives lost. These numbers remain stubbornly high and reflect a continued need for greater focus on driver awareness, traffic law enforcement, and infrastructure improvements. Despite safety campaigns and modern vehicle technologies, fatal collisions remain a grim reality on Illinois roads.
A closer look at the data shows that while many of the fatalities involved vehicle occupants, a substantial number also included pedestrians, motorcyclists, cyclists, and others not inside a car or truck. This points to the growing danger for vulnerable road users, especially in urban areas where foot and bike traffic intersect with dense motor vehicle activity. The data underscores the importance of sharing the road responsibly and implementing protective measures for all travelers.
Fatal crashes occurred almost equally on rural and urban roads—166 and 168 fatalities, respectively—demonstrating that the risk of a deadly collision isn’t limited to high-speed highways or congested city streets. Whether driving through downtown Chicago or along a quiet country road, motorists must remain vigilant. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers in Chicago, we’ve seen the tragic outcomes these crashes leave behind. We are committed to helping victims and their families seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve after a devastating accident.
Chicago & Nationwide News Outlets Turn to Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers When They Need Insights from an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney
Our Top Rated Car Accident Lawyers
From the moment I contacted this firm I was treated like family. I strongly recommend these attorneys.
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What the Statistics Say About Car Accidents in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, Chicago Car Accident Lawyers
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Common Chicago car accident injuries that have been experienced by clients helped by the top-rated lawyers at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers.
Many types of injuries commonly result from car accidents. They range from minor bumps and bruises to serious, catastrophic injuries such as paralysis or death. No part of the body is immune from injury in a car accident; accident victims can suffer injuries to the brain and head, including concussion or traumatic brain injury, and to the neck and spine, like whiplash or a disc bulge or herniation. Car accident victims can also suffer from psychological injuries and mental distress, which can be as painful and debilitating as a broken bone.
More Injuries from Motor Vehicle Accidents
Head, Neck, and Brain Injuries
- Post-concussive syndrome from a Car Accident
- Herniated cervical disc from a Car Accident
- Cervical sprain from a Car Accident
- Whiplash from a Car Accident
- Skull fracture from a Car Accident
- Contusion (brain bruise) from a Car Accident
- Traumatic Brain Injury from a Car Accident
- Concussion from a Car Accident
Spinal and Back Injuries
- Spondylolisthesis from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Sciatica (nerve compression) from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Lower back (lumbar) strain from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Fractured vertebrae from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia) from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) from a Car Accident in Chicago
- Herniated or bulging disc from a Car Accident in Chicago
Chest and Internal Injuries
- Heart Contusion from a Car Accident
- Aortic rupture or dissection after a Car Accident
- Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys) from a Car Accident
- Internal bleeding after a Car Accident
- Collapsed lung from a Car Accident
- Sternum fractures from a Car Accident
- Rib fractures from a Car Accident
Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Injuries
- Torn ligaments and tendons from Car Accident
- Soft tissue injuries from Car Accidents
- Pelvic Fractures from Car Accident
- Shoulder injuries from Car Accident
- Knee injuries from Car Accident
- Dislocated Joints from Car Accident
- Broken Bones from Car Accident
Face and Eye Injuries
- Airbag Injury From a Car Accident
- Lacerations and Abrasions From a Car Accident
- Eye Injuries From a Car Accident
- Dental Injuries From a Car Accident
- Facial Fractures From a Car Accident
Burns and Lacerations
- Puncture Wounds from Car Accidents
- Deep Cuts and Gashes from Car Accidents
- Road Rash from Car Accidents
- Thermal Burns from Car Accidents
- Chemical Burns from Car Accidents
Psychological and Emotional Injuries
- Sleep Disturbances or Nightmares after a Car Accident
- Driving Phobia after a Car Accident
- Anxiety and depression after a Car Accident
- Acute Stress Disorder after a Car Accident
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after a Car Accident
Child Injuries from Car Accidents
Safety tips from our attorneys to reduce your risk of getting in a car accident in Chicago
Practicing personal injury law, our Chicago car accident attorneys have helped many people who have been seriously injured in preventable accidents. Although we take great pride in winning compensation for our clients, we advocate that everyone do their utmost to stay safe on the road.
Wearing a seat belt and observing a safe speed limit are basic safety tips that are too often ignored. While you cannot prevent other drivers from causing a hazard, you can still protect yourself. According to the CDC, seat belt use can reduce serious injury and death from car accidents by 50 percent.
It should also go without saying that driving while impaired, either by alcohol or by illicit or prescription drugs, is extremely dangerous. However many people do not realize that distracted or fatigued driving can be equally treacherous. According to a study from the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, using a cell phone while driving increases the risk of an accident by three times.
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Our Chicago car accident attorneys handle all types of auto accident cases
Although pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents are less common than car accidents in Chicago (accounting for 1.7 percent, 1.3 percent and 1.5 percent of the total crashes in Illinois, respectively), these accidents are more likely to cause serious injury or death. Similarly, while crashes involving tractor-trailers account for 3.6 percent of overall crashes, they make up 9.1 percent of fatal car accidents, according to statistics from the Illinois DOT.
Having spent decades representing people who have been injured in car accidents or who have lost loved ones in fatal car accidents because of the carelessness of others, we are confident that our car accident lawyers will get you the compensation that you deserve. At the same time, as a family-owned and family-operated law firm, our attorneys strive to treat our clients with respect, compassion and empathy — just like we would a member of our family. Although we have successfully represented thousands of clients in Chicago and throughout Illinois, recovering millions of dollars of damages, we have not lost sight of the fact that each client’s case is unique and important, regardless of its size.
Distracted driving remains one of the leading causes of car accidents in Illinois, putting countless lives at risk every day. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, thousands of crashes each year are attributed to drivers who take their attention off the road—even for just a moment. Whether it’s sending a quick text, adjusting the radio, or eating while behind the wheel, these split-second distractions can have devastating consequences.
Common Types of Driver Distractions
Distractions come in many forms, but they generally fall into three categories: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distractions occur when drivers look away from the road, such as checking a GPS device. Manual distractions happen when drivers take their hands off the wheel, like reaching for a drink. Cognitive distractions involve the mind drifting away from driving, often due to stressful conversations or daydreaming. Each type can significantly increase the risk of a collision.
Legal Consequences of Distracted Driving
Illinois law takes distracted driving seriously. Using a handheld mobile device while driving is strictly prohibited, and violators can face hefty fines and even license suspension for repeat offenses. If a distracted driver causes an accident, they may also be held liable for injuries and property damage, opening the door to personal injury claims.
How Distracted Driving Impacts Accident Victims
Victims of distracted driving accidents often suffer from serious injuries, ranging from whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma can quickly overwhelm individuals and families. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we understand how life-changing these accidents can be, and we’re here to help you pursue rightful compensation.
Steps to Take After a Distracted Driving Crash
If you’re involved in a crash caused by a distracted driver, your safety should come first. Seek medical attention, document the accident scene, and collect witness statements if possible. Promptly contacting a personal injury attorney can also protect your rights and help ensure the responsible party is held accountable.
Car Accidents Caused by a Drunk Driver
Drunk driving remains a leading cause of car accidents in Chicago and throughout Illinois, endangering countless lives every year. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, alcohol-related crashes accounted for over 20% of all fatal traffic accidents in recent years. Every driver has a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely, and the consequences of impaired driving can be devastating for victims and their families.
The Impact on Victims and Their Families
When someone chooses to drive under the influence, the outcome can be life-changing. Victims of drunk driving auto accidents often face extensive medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation. Families may struggle with emotional trauma, especially when serious injuries or fatalities occur. Beyond the immediate physical harm, the ripple effects can last for years, affecting every aspect of daily life.
Legal Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you or a loved one has been hit by a drunk driver, you have the right to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Illinois law allows victims to seek damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and more. In some cases, courts may award punitive damages to hold the impaired driver fully accountable and deter future reckless behavior.
The Role of Evidence in Drunk Driving Cases
Proving liability in a drunk driving accident often requires strong evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and chemical test results. Working with experienced attorneys can help you gather this information, protect your rights, and build a compelling case.
Seeking Justice and Safer Roads
By holding drunk drivers accountable, you not only pursue justice for yourself but also help make Illinois roads safer for everyone. If you have questions or need guidance after a drunk driving accident, professional legal support can make all the difference in your recovery.
Hit and Run Car Accidents
A hit and run car accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information or assisting anyone who may be injured. In Illinois, this is a serious offense with both criminal and civil consequences. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, hit-and-run incidents have been on the rise, leaving many victims searching for justice and compensation.
Common Causes of Hit and Run Accidents
Why do drivers flee after a crash? Often, drivers leave the scene because they fear legal trouble, lack insurance, or are under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Sometimes, panic or misunderstanding of Illinois law plays a role. If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run, you may feel powerless, but you have options.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run
If you’re involved in a hit and run, your safety comes first. Move to a safe area, call 911, and seek medical attention if needed. Document everything you remember, license plate numbers, vehicle color, and even the direction the car fled. These details can make a huge difference when law enforcement investigates your case.
Legal Rights for Hit and Run Victims
Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Illinois have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Uninsured motorist coverage often applies in these cases, even if the other driver is never found. Working with an attorney ensures your rights are protected from the very beginning.
Rear-End Car Accidents in Chicago
Rear-end car accidents are among the most common traffic incidents on Illinois roads, often resulting from distracted driving, sudden stops, or following too closely. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, rear-end crashes make up a significant portion of statewide collisions each year, leading to thousands of injuries and considerable property damage. Are you aware of your rights if you’ve been involved in one of these accidents?
Common Causes of Rear-End Accidents
Many rear-end collisions happen during rush hour or in congested areas like Chicago’s downtown. Texting while driving, tailgating, and failing to notice slowed traffic are frequent contributors. Even a momentary lapse in attention can cause a chain-reaction crash, especially in bad weather or on slippery roads.
Typical Injuries After a Rear-End Crash
Victims of rear-end accidents often suffer from whiplash, back injuries, or concussions. The sudden force propels occupants forward, straining muscles and ligaments. In more serious cases, these injuries can require long-term medical care. Have you experienced neck pain or headaches after an accident? If so, it is important to seek prompt medical attention—even if you feel okay at first.
Liability and Illinois Law
In Illinois, the driver who rear-ends another vehicle is usually found at fault, but every situation is unique. Sometimes, brake light failures or abrupt stops can complicate the claim process. Understanding fault is crucial when filing insurance claims or seeking compensation for injuries.
Multi-Vehicle Auto Accidents in Chicago
Multi-vehicle car accidents, often called chain-reaction crashes, involve three or more vehicles colliding in a single incident. These crashes are common on Illinois highways and busy intersections, especially during rush hour or poor weather conditions. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, multi-vehicle accidents can lead to severe injuries and significant property damage due to the complex interactions between cars.
Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents
Distracted driving, speeding, tailgating, and sudden stops are leading causes of multi-vehicle accidents. In many cases, one driver's mistake, like checking a phone or failing to notice slowing traffic, can set off a chain reaction. For example, if a driver rear-ends another vehicle on a crowded road, the force can push that car into others, escalating the accident.
Determining Liability in Chain-Reaction Crashes
Figuring out who is at fault in a multi-vehicle accident can be challenging. Illinois follows comparative negligence laws, meaning each driver’s actions are considered when assigning responsibility. Police reports, eyewitness statements, and accident reconstruction are all vital in sorting through the chaos and establishing liability.
Common Injuries from Multi-Vehicle Crashes
Injuries in these accidents can range from whiplash and broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. With cars often being struck more than once, the risk of serious or even life-threatening injuries increases. Emergency response teams frequently report that multi-vehicle crashes result in longer rescue times due to the number of vehicles involved.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Claims
When you’re involved in a car accident in Illinois, you expect that all drivers have insurance, as required by state law. However, the reality is that many people drive without adequate coverage, putting you at risk if you’re injured. According to the Insurance Information Institute, roughly 12% of Illinois motorists are uninsured, meaning your chances of facing an uninsured or underinsured driver are higher than you might think.
Understanding Your Coverage
Illinois law requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This protection steps in when the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your losses. For example, if your medical bills and lost wages exceed the other driver’s policy limits, your UM/UIM coverage can help make up the difference.
Steps to Take After an Accident
After a crash, report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company as soon as possible. Collect information from all parties involved and take note of any witnesses. Quick action is essential, as Illinois law has strict deadlines for filing UM/UIM claims.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Many accident victims are surprised to learn how complex these claims can become. Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute the extent of your injuries. Working with a knowledgeable legal team can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Car Accidents Caused by Road Defects
Road defect car accidents are more common than many Illinois drivers realize. Potholes, missing signage, uneven pavement, and damaged guardrails can turn an ordinary drive into a dangerous situation within seconds. According to the Federal Highway Administration, road conditions are a contributing factor in nearly one-third of all fatal crashes. If you’ve experienced an accident caused by a road hazard, you are not alone.
Common Types of Road Defects
You might encounter various road defects while driving in Illinois. Potholes are particularly problematic during spring, as freeze-thaw cycles damage pavement. Cracked surfaces, worn lane markings, and inadequate lighting also increase accident risks. Construction zones with unclear warnings or poorly marked detours frequently cause confusion and collisions.
Who Is Liable for Road Defect Accidents?
Determining liability in road defect accidents is complex. In many cases, city, county, or state agencies are responsible for maintaining safe roadways. If a government agency fails to repair a known hazard or warn drivers, it could be held accountable for resulting injuries. Sometimes, private contractors or property owners may share responsibility if their negligence contributed to unsafe road conditions.
Accidents Involving Commercial Vehicles
Accidents involving commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks, semi-trailers, and company vans, can have devastating consequences for everyone involved. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, thousands of large truck accidents occur on Illinois roads each year, often resulting in serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of these vehicles. When commercial vehicles are involved, the risks and complexities increase, making it crucial to understand your rights and options.
Causes of Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Several factors contribute to crashes with commercial vehicles. Fatigue is a major concern since many drivers are under pressure to meet tight deadlines. Distracted driving, speeding, and improper loading of cargo can also play a significant role. Sometimes, these accidents result from negligent maintenance, where vehicles are not kept up to safety standards, increasing the risk for everyone on the road.
Liability in Commercial Vehicle Accidents
Liability in these accidents can be more complicated than in typical car crashes. It’s not just the driver who may be at fault, but also the company that owns the vehicle, a maintenance provider, or even a manufacturer if faulty parts contributed to the collision. Determining who is responsible requires a thorough investigation and knowledge of Illinois personal injury law.
The Impact of Injuries
The injuries from commercial vehicle accidents are often severe. Victims may face long recoveries, extensive medical bills, and lost wages. In some cases, injuries can be life-altering, impacting families and futures. Have you or someone you know experienced such a situation? Prompt legal support can make a significant difference.
Fatal Car Accidents
When a loved one is lost in a fatal car accident, families are often left devastated by emotional and financial burdens. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, hundreds of fatal crashes occur annually across the state, with speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving listed among the top causes. These tragedies often lead families to seek answers and justice for their loss.
Why Fatal Car Accidents Happen
Many fatal car accidents result from negligence, such as reckless driving or failure to follow traffic laws. Inclement weather, poorly maintained roads, and vehicle defects can also contribute. If another driver’s carelessness caused the crash, surviving family members may have legal options to hold the responsible party accountable.
Pursuing a Wrongful Death Claim
Illinois law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal car accident. This legal action can help secure compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and the loss of companionship. The process can be complex, and working with an experienced personal injury law attorney can help families navigate the legal system during this difficult time.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Illinois, the decedent’s spouse, children, or next of kin typically have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases must be filed within a specific time frame, known as the statute of limitations. Failing to act promptly could jeopardize your rights to compensation.
Our car accident injury lawyers can handle any motor vehicle accident case.
Do I have a Chicago car accident case?
The Chicago car accident lawyers at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers have put together this interactive tool to help you discover if you have a car accident case.
There are three basic requirements:
- Was a driver negligent?
- Did the negligence of the driver lead to an injury?
- Did the injury cause harm?
Our commitment is simple: Our top-rated Chicago car accident attorneys promise that you do not have to pay attorney’s fees unless we make a financial recovery for you in your motor vehicle accident case. In short, we don’t get paid unless you do.
Identifying fault is not always straightforward, even when one driver was clearly responsible for the crash. This is why having an experienced car accident attorney on your side is so important. The lawyer will protect your best interests, help you understand your legal rights and guide you through the process of recovering compensation from the at-fault driver.
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Our web stories cover individual personal injury topics in depth.
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How to Deal With Insurance Companies After a Car Accident in Chicago
If you have been involved in a car accident in Chicago or anywhere else in Illinois, you may be wondering whether you should talk to insurance companies. Knowing what information to share and what not to disclose to both your own insurance company and the other party’s insurer can make all the difference to having a successful claim.
The best practice is to notify your insurance company about your car accident as soon as possible. Cooperate with your insurer but do so very carefully and keep your comments to a minimum. If you are asked to provide a statement, be sure to divulge only absolutely necessary information. Do not go into details about your injuries, and avoid admitting or discussing fault. Stick to the following facts:
- Where the accident occurred
- The date and time of the accident
- What type of accident it was (for example, a rear-end collision)
- The names of the people involved
Our Lawyers Will Negotiate with the Insurance Company
Dealing with insurance companies after a car accident can be an extremely complicated process that involves skillful negotiation. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Personal Injury & Car Accident Lawyers, we know exactly how to handle insurers. We make sure that you can focus on getting better while our knowledgeable car accident lawyers conduct investigations and gather valuable evidence to help you obtain the compensation you deserve.
Additional Resources
Do not share more information than is necessary
Sharing extra information with your insurance company can weaken your case for compensation. To avoid making any mistakes and ensure your case is in safe hands, consult a Chicago car accident lawyer before speaking to any insurance company.
Remember, insurance companies are for-profit businesses
If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to remember that the insurance company is not on your side. Most insurers are seeking to pay injured victims as little as possible. Even your own insurance company may try to downplay the severity of your accident and injuries in an attempt to pay a smaller settlement amount.
Be polite yet careful if speaking with the other party's insurance company
If the other party’s insurance company contacts you, be courteous but do not provide a recorded statement. Tell the insurer that they should speak with your insurance company or your lawyer for details.
Determining who is at fault for a car accident is the first step in recovering damages.
Car accidents often occur due to someone’s negligence, whether it is speeding, distracted driving, driving under the influence or other irresponsible behaviors behind the wheel.
After a car accident, make sure to exchange contact details and insurance information with the other driver. Remember, avoid admitting fault at the scene because your statement can be used against you in the future. If there is a disagreement between parties, several key pieces of evidence can help support your claim and determine fault in the car crash, including the following:
- Police report
- Expert testimony
- Witness statement
- Video footage from surrounding areas like restaurants, local streets and highways
- Photos including the accident scene, physical damage to vehicles, road conditions, etc.
How much your car accident case worth? Our lawyers are ready to answer all of your questions.
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Car Accident Laws in Illinois
1. Fault-Based Insurance System
Illinois follows a traditional fault-based system for car accidents, meaning the driver who caused the accident is legally responsible for covering the damages. Victims can pursue compensation by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company, filing a claim with their own insurer (in some cases), or filing a personal injury lawsuit in civil court. This system gives accident victims the right to recover damages such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering directly from the party responsible.
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The at-fault driver (or their insurer) is financially responsible for damages.
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Injured parties can file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurer, their own insurer (if they have applicable coverage), or file a personal injury lawsuit.
Relevant Statute: 625 ILCS 5/7-203 (proof of financial responsibility)
2. Statute of Limitations
In Illinois, car accident victims have a limited time to take legal action. For personal injury claims, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the crash, while property damage claims (like vehicle repairs) must be filed within five years. Failing to file within these deadlines typically means the court will dismiss the case, making it crucial for injured parties to act promptly.
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Personal Injury: You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
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Property Damage: You have 5 years to sue for vehicle or property damage.
Relevant Statute: 735 ILCS 5/13-202 (injury); 735 ILCS 5/13-205 (property)
3. Comparative Fault Rule
Illinois uses a modified comparative fault rule when determining compensation in a car accident lawsuit. If a victim is partially at fault for the accident, they can still recover damages—as long as they are less than 50% responsible. However, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, a person found 20% at fault would receive only 80% of the total awarded damages.
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If the injured party is less than 50% at fault, they can recover damages.
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Recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault.
Example: If you’re 20% at fault, your damages are reduced by 20%.
Relevant Statute: 735 ILCS 5/2-1116
4. Mandatory Police Reporting
Under Illinois law, drivers must report any accident involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 (or $500 if any driver is uninsured) to law enforcement. Failure to report an accident can result in fines and potential license suspension. A police report can also serve as critical evidence in an insurance claim or injury lawsuit, making timely reporting especially important.
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You must report an accident to police if:
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There is injury, death, or over $1,500 in property damage (or $500 if uninsured).
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Failure to report may result in license suspension.
Relevant Statute: 625 ILCS 5/11-406
5. Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
All Illinois drivers are required to carry minimum liability insurance to legally operate a vehicle. The minimum limits are $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $20,000 for property damage. Drivers must also carry uninsured motorist coverage at the same minimum levels, offering protection if they are injured by a driver who lacks insurance.
Drivers in Illinois must carry at least:
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$25,000 per person for bodily injury
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$50,000 per accident for bodily injury
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$20,000 for property damage
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Uninsured Motorist Coverage is required at the same minimums
Relevant Statute: 625 ILCS 5/7-601
6. DUI Laws and Civil Liability
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Illinois that carries both criminal penalties and civil consequences. If a driver causes a crash while impaired by alcohol or drugs, they can be held liable for the victim’s damages in a personal injury lawsuit. A DUI conviction can serve as strong evidence of negligence, and in severe cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to the injured party.
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DUI drivers face both criminal penalties and civil liability.
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A DUI conviction can be powerful evidence of negligence in a civil case.
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Punitive damages may be awarded in extreme cases.
Relevant Statute: 625 ILCS 5/11-501
7. Dram Shop Liability
Illinois law allows injured parties to hold bars, restaurants, and other alcohol-serving establishments financially accountable if they serve alcohol to someone who is visibly intoxicated and that person later causes a car accident. Known as “dram shop” liability, this legal doctrine can apply even if the injured person was not involved in the alcohol consumption, creating an additional path to compensation in DUI-related crashes.
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Injured parties may sue an establishment that sold alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who caused a crash.
Relevant Statute: 235 ILCS 5/6-21
8. Right of Way and Traffic Control Laws
Violations of Illinois traffic laws—such as running red lights, failing to yield, or not stopping for pedestrians—can help establish legal fault in a car accident. These violations may be considered “negligence per se,” meaning the behavior is automatically deemed negligent if it led to an accident. Understanding and proving such violations is essential for building a strong injury claim.
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Violating traffic rules (e.g., red light running, failure to yield) can establish negligence per se.
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Useful in proving fault in intersection or pedestrian cases.
Relevant Statutes:
9. Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
Medical payments coverage, also known as MedPay, is an optional form of insurance in Illinois that helps pay for immediate medical costs following a car crash in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, regardless of who was at fault. While not required by law, MedPay can cover hospital visits, ambulance fees, and even funeral expenses, providing financial relief while liability is being determined or litigation is pending.
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Not required in Illinois but often part of optional coverage.
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Pays for immediate medical expenses regardless of fault.
10. Access to Crash Reports
Crash reports are vital documents that contain key details about a car accident, including officer observations, witness statements, and preliminary fault assessments. In Illinois, accident victims can obtain crash reports through the Illinois State Police or local law enforcement agencies. These reports often serve as important evidence in insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits.
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Victims can request accident reports through the Illinois State Police or local departments.
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Useful for claims and litigation.
Relevant Portal: Illinois State Police Crash Reports
More resources to help car accident victims...
- Can I get compensated if I was partly at fault for my car accident?
- Can I sue a bar if injured by a drunk driver?
- Common Types of Car Accident Lawsuits
- Five Things You Need to Know About Drowsy Driving
- How Do I Know If I Have an Auto Accident Lawsuit?
- How Much Time Do I Have to File a Motor Vehicle Accident Claim?
- These Are as Dangerous for Drivers as Drunk Driving
- Chicago Texting While Driving Accident Lawyer
- The Dangers of Speech Based Texting
- Grandparents and Child Safety in Cars
- Tips for a Safe Lyft Ride in Chicago
- Tips for Safely Using Uber in Chicago
- What to Do After a Car Accident
- What Types Of Damages Can A Person Claim?
- When Do I Need An Attorney For Car Accident Injuries?
- Who Can Be Held Responsible For a Car Accident?
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