A car accident can be very severe and overwhelming, and being at fault for the accident can negatively impact your life in a big way. If you have been involved in a car accident, reach out to an auto accident lawyer in Rockford immediately and figure out your next steps.
Does fault affect a car accident in Illinois?
While many states in the United States may follow a “no-fault” policy, Illinois is a “fault-based” state. This means that whether you are at fault or not could determine the end result of your case. Generally speaking, if you are liable for the car accident, then you will be held liable for all the damages that occurred due to the accident.
When should you report a car accident in Illinois?
According to the Illinois State Police, if a police officer is not present at the scene of the accident, then the involved drivers should report the accident within 10 days. An accident must be reported if it caused injuries, death, or property damage of over $1,500 or $500 if any drivers are uninsured.
What are the penalties for a hit-and-run accident in Illinois?
The penalties for a hit-and-run case differ from case to case and depend on the different types of damage caused.
- If the accident only caused property damage and no injuries or death, then the at-fault driver should provide their information and the insurer’s information to the other parties involved. If you fail to do so, it may lead to a fine of $2,500 or 1 year in jail. If the damage caused by you was over $1,000, your license could also be revoked.
- You must go to a police station and submit an Illinois Crash Report if the property damage caused by you is more than $1,500 or if the accident resulted in bodily injuries or death.
What should you do when you are in a car accident?
If you are involved in a car accident, you must first prioritize your safety. Some steps you should take in a car accident are:
- Stop your car and get out safely.
- Call 911 as soon as you can, within 30 minutes of the accident, if possible.
- Provide the other involved people with your basic information, such as your name, address, license plate number, and driver’s license.
- If there are other injured people, help them get to a hospital if you can.
Have you been involved in a car accident?
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, do not waste more of your time. Get in touch with an experienced car accident attorney today and protect your legal rights.
