In an auto accident, you may file for a first or third party claim. A first-party claim is when you file for compensation for damages to your own vehicle or personal injuries. A third-party claim is when you file against another driver’s insurance. After filing for an auto insurance claim in the State of Illinois, the insurance company will conduct an investigation.
Generally, you should do the following to prepare for the insurer’s investigation:
- Report the incident to the police as some insurers may reject your claim without a police report.
- Get photos of your injuries and the damages to your property before getting repairs.
- Get names and contact information of witnesses.
- Keep all receipts of repair and medical care.
- Make sure your property is free from further damage following the accident as your insurer may refuse coverage for the additional damage.
- If the claim is against your insurer, review the “Conditions” and “Duties After Loss” of your policy to ensure you’ve provided all requirements for the claim
- Cooperate with the investigation.
In Illinois, the
law requires insurance companies to give forms necessary for your claims in 15 working days. The law also requires insurance companies to provide a detailed explanation for unresolved property damage liability claims within 60 days of notification.
Provided you’ve notified your insurer, they will then calculate for the value of your claims and offer a settlement. You may appeal to the insurer should they deny your claim or offer you less than what you’re owed; however, this may require additional proof and time. Generally, you should not settle with insurers without checking with your personal injury attorney as the settlement may be short of what you think your total losses are.
We see you as a person, not just a client – and that makes us better at what we do. We listen. We learn your story. And, as we help you get the money you deserve, we go above and beyond in a way most law firms never could and never would. Because we’re not just lawyers. And you’re not just a client. We’re friends, neighbors, family. We’re all people and here at 844 See Mike, we put people first.
A lot of
personal injury lawyers raise their contingency fee throughout the process, charging 1/3 if the case is settled pre-suit, charging 40% if the case is filed after a lawsuit is filed, and charging 50% if the case goes to trial. We don’t. At 844 See Mike, our
personal injury contingency fee is always 1/3 and that’s not changing. We will handle your property damage claim FOR FREE. We will never change our contingency fee throughout the process. You will not owe us a penny unless you get money. Our unique formula has earned us over
1,000 outstanding client reviews on our website, an
A+ BBB rating, and over
145 five-star reviews on Google. Call 888-572-0176, e-mail us at michael@agrusslawfirm.com, or schedule a meeting with us
here. We’re here 24/7.