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Chicago Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Accident Lawyers
Car accidents are stressful enough on their own. But when you discover the other driver has no insurance or not enough, stress can quickly turn to panic. Believe it or not, this is a reality many Chicago drivers face. Despite Illinois law requiring all drivers to carry auto insurance, thousands still drive without it. If you’re involved in a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you may worry about how you’ll pay for medical bills, lost wages, or car repairs.
Uninsured motorist (UM) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can offer a safety net. In Illinois, every auto insurance policy must include UM coverage up to the same limits as your liability coverage. This means your own insurance steps in when the at-fault driver cannot cover your damages. However, filing and winning these claims isn’t always simple. Insurance companies may delay, underpay, or deny your claim altogether. That’s why having a Chicago uninsured motorist accident lawyer on your side can be invaluable. An auto accident attorney can clarify your rights, help you build a strong claim, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
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Why You Need a Chicago Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is rarely straightforward, especially when the other driver lacks insurance. The process of filing a UM claim can be rife with red tape. Insurance companies, even your own, want to minimize payouts. They may challenge the details of your accident, claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you say, or argue about what’s covered.
A Chicago uninsured motorist accident attorney is familiar with local laws and insurance practices. They know how to gather evidence, handle negotiations, and push back against unfair denials. Imagine being rear-ended in downtown Chicago by someone who admits they don’t have insurance. You file a claim, only to find the insurer is questioning every detail, stalling, or making a lowball offer that won’t even cover your ER visit. With a lawyer’s help, you don’t have to accept less than you deserve. Your attorney can manage communications, pursue arbitration, or even take your case to court if necessary. Their goal is to make sure the insurance company honors its obligations, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Chicago Uninsured Motorist Claim?
After a collision with an uninsured driver, victims are often left wondering what losses they can recover. In Illinois, your uninsured motorist coverage may pay for a broad range of damages. These can include medical costs (from emergency care to long-term rehabilitation), lost income if you need time off work, pain and suffering, and even repairs or replacement for your vehicle.
For instance, if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident near Wrigleyville and can’t identify the driver, you might still recover compensation through your UM policy. If you suffer a serious back injury and can’t return to work, your insurance could cover ongoing medical treatment and your lost paychecks. The process can become even more complex if the at-fault driver is underinsured. In those cases, your underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage may bridge the gap between what their insurance pays and your actual damages.
Recovering fair compensation isn’t always automatic. Insurance adjusters may dispute your claim’s value or require mountains of documentation. That’s why having a personal injury attorney ensures your claim is thoroughly presented, your losses are fully documented, and nothing is left on the table.
Steps to Take After an Accident with an Uninsured Driver in Chicago
In the chaos following a car crash, it’s hard to know what to do next—especially if the other driver can’t provide proof of insurance. Taking the right steps immediately afterward can protect your health, legal rights, and financial future.
First, always call the police and make sure an official accident report is filed. This document is crucial for your insurance claim. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Get contact details for witnesses if possible. Seek prompt medical attention—even if you feel fine at first. Some injuries surface hours or even days later, and a doctor’s evaluation creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Notify your insurance company as soon as you can, but be careful with statements. Don’t sign anything or agree to a settlement without legal advice. Insurance adjusters may pressure you into a quick resolution that doesn’t cover your long-term needs. Before you move forward, consult with a Chicago uninsured motorist accident lawyer. They’ll guide you through every step, helping you avoid missteps that could jeopardize your claim.
How Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Supports Chicago Accident Victims
At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, our Chicago personal injury lawyers understand the anxiety and frustration that follows a crash with an uninsured motorist. Our team is passionate about helping Chicago residents stand up to insurance companies and recover what they’re owed. From your first call, we take steps to preserve evidence, calculate your full range of damages, and create a personalized strategy for your case.
We know every accident is different, and personal attention makes all the difference. Whether you need help getting medical bills paid, dealing with vehicle repairs, or securing payment for lost income, we’re there every step of the way. If your claim is denied or delayed, we’re prepared to negotiate aggressively or pursue arbitration or litigation. Our attorneys keep you informed, answer your questions, and ensure you’re never left in the dark.
We’re proud to fight for the injured across Chicago, helping our clients move forward after unexpected setbacks. When you choose Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, you get more than just a lawyer—you get a partner in your recovery.
FAQs About Uninsured / Underinsured Car Accidents
What should I do if the driver who hit me in Chicago doesn’t have insurance?
Call the police, document the accident, gather witness information, seek medical care, and inform your insurance company. Contact a Chicago uninsured motorist accident lawyer quickly to protect your rights and help with your claim.
Can I still recover compensation if the at-fault driver fled the scene?
Yes. In Illinois, hit-and-run accidents are typically treated as uninsured motorist claims. Your attorney can help you file with your insurance and pursue damages for your injuries and losses.
How long do I have to file an uninsured motorist claim in Illinois?
The time limit depends on your insurance policy’s terms—some are as short as one year. Notify your insurer and consult an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.
Will my insurance rates go up if I file an uninsured motorist claim?
Generally, your rates shouldn’t increase if you weren’t at fault. Still, discuss this with your attorney and review your policy to understand all the implications before proceeding.
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