Quick Summary: If you're involved in a hit-and-run accident in Chicago, call 911 right away, document the scene, gather any witness information, seek medical care even if you feel “okay,” and report the crash to your insurance company. Taking these steps quickly helps protect your health and strengthen any future claim. Even when the at-fault driver flees, compensation may still be available through uninsured motorist coverage and other insurance avenues.

Hit-and-Run Accidents in Chicago: What You Need to Know

Hit-and-run accidents happen far too often throughout Chicago, IL and Cook County. Whether you were injured in a car, on a bike, or as a pedestrian, the shock and confusion can make it hard to know what to do next. At Thomas Law, we help injured people navigate the practical steps and the legal process so they can focus on healing while we handle the claim.

First Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Crash

Here’s what we recommend you do immediately:

• Call 911 – This ensures you get medical attention and creates an official police report, which is crucial in hit-and-run cases.
• Document the scene – Photos of your vehicle, skid marks, debris, traffic lights, and surroundings can help investigators and insurers understand what happened.
• Get witness information – Even a quick statement or phone number can help identify the driver or support your version of events.
• Seek medical care – Many injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Medical records also help connect your injuries to the crash.
• Notify your insurance company – Reporting promptly protects your rights under your policy.

For more detailed steps, see our guide: What to Do if Injured?

How Hit-and-Run Claims Work in Illinois

Police Reports Matter

In a hit-and-run accident, the police report becomes a key part of your claim. It documents the incident, includes witness statements, and may support the investigation. In Cook County, law enforcement often works with traffic cameras and local businesses to identify fleeing drivers. Even if the driver is never found, the report helps with your insurance claim.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

Illinois requires all auto insurance policies to include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This is good news for hit-and-run victims. UM coverage can help pay for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle damage (when paired with collision coverage)

Because hit-and-run drivers are treated as “uninsured,” UM coverage is often the primary path toward compensation.

Evidence Preservation

Even without the at-fault driver present, evidence can come from many sources—witnesses, physical debris, surveillance cameras, dashcams, and your medical records. The sooner you gather and preserve evidence, the stronger your claim will be.

Timelines and Deadlines

In Illinois, personal injury claims generally must be filed within two years, but insurance deadlines can be much shorter. Some policies require you to report a hit-and-run within a specific timeframe, so acting quickly is essential.

Learn more about motor vehicle cases here: Motor Vehicle Accidents

Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Hit-and-Run

• Not calling the police – Without a report, your UM claim may be denied.
• Leaving the scene too quickly – Photos and evidence fade fast; take a moment to document everything.
• Giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters – Adjusters may use your words against you.
• Not getting medical care – Delayed treatment may weaken your claim.
• Assuming you’re not eligible for compensation – Many injured people mistakenly think hit-and-run victims have no options. That’s not true.

When to Talk to a Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were hurt in a hit-and-run crash around Chicago, IL or Cook County, speaking with an attorney early can help protect your rights. At Thomas Law, we assist with:

• Investigating the crash
• Handling insurance communication
• Evaluating UM coverage and other recovery options
• Ensuring deadlines are met
• Negotiating fair compensation

You can also explore answers to common injury questions here: Car Accident FAQs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get compensation if the driver is never found?
Yes. In many Illinois hit-and-run cases, your uninsured motorist coverage allows you to recover damages even when the driver cannot be identified.

What if I didn’t call the police right away?
You should still file a report as soon as possible. Insurance companies may require proof that the crash was a true hit-and-run.

How long do I have to file a claim?
Illinois typically allows two years for injury claims, but insurance deadlines are often much shorter. Contact an attorney quickly to avoid missing key timelines.

Should I talk to the insurance company?
Report the crash, but avoid giving recorded or detailed statements before speaking with a lawyer. It’s easy to say something insurers may use to reduce your claim.

Speak With Thomas Law Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Chicago, our team at Thomas Law is here to help. We’ll explain your options, handle the legal details, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation today:
Contact Thomas Law or call 312-527-4600.