It is important to distinguish between at fault states and no fault states when you are determining when you can seek financial compensation for the injuries you suffered during an automobile accident. Illinois is an at-fault state which has comparative negligence laws in effect. All automobile driver’s in the State of Illinois are liable for paying the other party’s damages if they are more than fifty percent at fault for causing the automobile accident.
The State of Illinois and Automobile Insurance Requirements
Illinois is an at-fault state when it comes to automobile insurance, and accident victims may pursue financial compensation for the losses they sustain up to the percentage of the other driver’s contribution to the automobile accident. A driver may have been 70% liable for an accident, but it is possible you can claim this amount when you seek monetary compensation for your injuries.
Every person who drives an automobile in the State of Illinois must have automobile liability insurance. The following minimum insurance coverage amounts are applicable in Illinois:
- $20,000 for property damage liability insurance
- $50,000 in accident coverage including bodily injury and wrongful death
- $25,000 for liability coverage per individual for bodily injury and wrongful death
Some drivers have uninsured motorist and underinsured motorist insurance. The amounts for this insurance must align with the total liability coverage limits. Sometimes a driver may suffer injuries during an automobile accident with an insured motorist. If this is the case, then uninsured motorist coverage will protect the accident victim. Those who do not adhere to the automobile liability insurance requirements in Illinois may be forced to pay a fine and lose their driving privileges.
Drivers in Illinois can choose to purchase automobile insurance with policy limits above the minimum requirements. An accident victim is permitted to file a personal injury claim to seek financial compensation for their injuries. If the policy limits meet the damages amount, then an accident victim may submit an insurance claim.
Informing Insurance Companies About an Automobile Accident
If you receive medical care for the injuries you suffer during an automobile accident, then you should inform the insurance company about the accident and your injuries. An insurance company representative may photograph the accident scene and any property damage associated with the accident. Also, you do not want to have your insurance claim rejected, and therefore it is essential that you provide the insurance company with detailed information about the cause of the automobile accident and the injuries you suffered. You should never admit liability for the automobile accident, and you should never feel pressured to make false statements about the automobile accident.
Retaining an Experienced and Knowledgeable Attorney
You do not want to stand up to an insurance company alone. It is vital that you do everything within your power to protect your legal interests. You can retain a knowledgeable attorney who can depose witnesses, conduct discovery, and help you with every aspect of your case. You need to protect and enforce your legal right so you have the best chance of obtaining the financial compensation you deserve.