Your Guide: What to Do After an Accident in Chicago
Immediate Steps After Any Accident or Injury
If you’ve just been hurt in a car accident, workplace incident, or another unexpected event, knowing what to do can protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights. This guide gives you simple, clear steps to take after any injury in Chicago or Illinois.
Accident Response Checklist
- Ensure safety. Move to a safe area and check for injuries. Call 911 for any serious or life-threatening conditions.
- Get medical attention right away, even if you think you’re okay. Some injuries take time to appear.
- Report the incident.
• Car accident: Call the police and file a report.
• Work injury: Notify your supervisor or employer as soon as possible.
• Slip and fall/property accident: Tell the property owner or manager. - Document everything. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, property damage, and any hazards.
- Get witness information. Collect names, phone numbers, and statements if possible.
- Keep all medical records, bills, and correspondence
related to your injury and treatment.
- Do not admit fault or apologize at the scene.
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance without legal advice.
- Don’t delay medical care—gaps in treatment can hurt your claim.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment and recovery.
- Contact a personal injury attorney before signing anything or accepting a settlement.
Scenario-Specific Tips
If You Were in a Car Accident
- Exchange information with all drivers (license, insurance, vehicle details).
- Take photos of license plates, vehicle damage, road conditions, and traffic signals.
- Request a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available.
- Don’t discuss the accident on social media.
If You Were Hurt at Work
- Report your injury to your employer within 45 days (required by Illinois law).
- Ask for a written accident report.
- Get medical care from a provider of your choice—don’t feel pressured to see only the employer’s doctor.
- Document all missed work and keep pay stubs.
If You Were Injured on Someone Else’s Property
- Ask the property owner/manager to document your accident.
- Photograph the hazard (wet floor, ice, broken stair, etc.) as soon as possible.
- Get contact info for anyone who saw the incident.
What Not To Do
Avoid These Mistakes After an Accident
- Don’t admit fault or apologize to others at the scene.
- Don’t delay medical care—waiting can hurt your health and your claim.
- Don’t sign any release forms or accept settlements from insurance companies without legal review.
- Don’t talk about your accident publicly or post about it online.
Talk to an Attorney Before You Make Big Decisions
One of the most important steps after an injury is to consult with a personal injury lawyer. A free consultation with Thomas Law can help you understand your rights, avoid mistakes, and start your recovery on the right foot.