What to do after a hit-and-run in Illinois – Illinois treats hit-and-run offenses with utmost seriousness, imposing severe penalties on offenders. As a victim, your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact the outcome of the situation.
Furthermore, In Illinois, the law mandates that drivers involved in an accident remain at the scene to exchange information and assist those in need.
However, not all drivers follow this legal and moral obligation, leaving victims to navigate the aftermath on their own.
This is why understanding what steps to take after a hit-and-run is essential to safeguard your rights, ensure your safety, and potentially bring the offender to justice.
Immediate Steps To Take After a Hit-and-Run
Acting swiftly and effectively can help protect your safety and aid law enforcement in identifying the responsible party. Here are the next crucial steps to take after a hit-and-run accident:
- Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safe area to prevent further collisions. Next, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If there is any, call 911 immediately if anyone requires medical attention.
- Record Details: Take note of the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number if visible. Also, you can document the time, location, and direction the vehicle was heading.
- Look for Witnesses: Ask bystanders if they witnessed the incident and collect their contact details. Witness statements can be invaluable to law enforcement.
- Contact the Police: Call 911 or your local police department to report the hit-and-run. Furthermore, you must provide all the details you’ve gathered to assist in their investigation.
- File an Official Report: Ensure an official police report is filed, as this document is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Legal Obligations And Illinois Laws On Hit-and-Run
You must understand Illinois’ legal framework surrounding hit-and-run accidents. The reason is it can help you navigate the aftermath effectively.
Here are legal frameworks that is fully functional in Illinois:
- Stopping at the Scene: Illinois law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop at the scene and exchange information.
- Providing Assistance: Drivers must render aid to injured parties if necessary.
- Criminal Charges: Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage can result in misdemeanor charges, while incidents involving injuries or fatalities may lead to felony charges.
- Restitution: Offenders may be required to compensate victims for damages and medical expenses.
- Fines and Jail Time: Penalties can include hefty fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of driving privileges.
- Reporting Requirements: Victims are to report hit-and-run accidents within 24 hours to the police as soon as possible, to comply with Illinois law.
Filing An Insurance Claim After A Hit-and-Run
Dealing with your insurance company is a critical step in recovering financial losses from a hit-and-run.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This type of coverage can help pay for damages and medical expenses if the at-fault driver is not identified.
- Collision Coverage: Collision insurance may cover repair costs for your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.
- MedPay: MedPay is an organization that can also help cover the medical bills for you and your passengers.
Steps To File An Insurance Claim
If you want to file an insurance claim with your insurance provider after the hit-and-run accident, here’s what to do:
- Contact your insurance company to report the incident and provide the police report and any gathered evidence.
- Take photos of your vehicle, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Maintain communication with your insurance adjuster to ensure a smooth claims process.
Tips For Preventing Hit-and-Run Incidents
While not all accidents are preventable, there are certain measures that can reduce the likelihood of being involved in a hit-and-run. Those measures include:
- Choose secure, well-lit locations for parking to deter potential offenders.
- A dash cam can provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident.
- Stay alert, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and anticipate potential hazards.
- Ensure your car is in good working condition to avoid breakdowns in unsafe locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still File An Insurance Claim If The At-fault Driver Is Not Found?
Yes, you can file a claim under your collision coverage or uninsured motorist. Also, you can review your policy to understand the coverage options available to you.
Is Leaving The Scene Of An Accident Always Considered A Hit-and-Run?
Yes, leaving the scene without exchanging information or offering assistance is classified as a hit-and-run under Illinois law.
What Are The Penalties For Committing A Hit-and-Run In Illinois?
Penalties range from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident and whether it resulted in injuries or fatalities.
