Critical Procedures to Remember Following a Car Crash in Illinois

Personal Injury - April 2, 2026 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

A car crash is a traumatic event, and it is easy to act impulsively in the chaos that follows. Acting rashly can result in further trauma down the road, though, and it is best to keep a cool head and handle the situation in a calm manner. If you can manage that, it may be easier for you down the line.

How can an Illinois injury lawyer help?

If you are suffering from injuries sustained in a car accident, an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer may be able to help. Car accident injuries can have a lasting impact on you and your family, and the medical expenses can be crippling. At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we have extensive experience in personal-injury law.
We have operated as a family firm since 1924, and we can use our experience to your advantage. Call us today toll-free at (800)-985-1819 to schedule an appointment with a member of our team.

Remain Calm and Take Action

If you are in a crash, and if it is possible – it is important to take action and remain calm. DMV.org recommends that if possible, you should move your vehicle to a safe and secure location. Call emergency services immediately, and then evaluate the scene.
If there are severely injured people, try to cover them with blankets or coats, but do not move them as it may cause further injuries. The scene of a car accident can be chaotic, but one of the most important steps to remember is to exchange information with the other drivers. Try to get information from anyone who was involved.
Important details to obtain are names, physical addresses, license numbers and insurance information. It may also be useful to note a description of each vehicle and person involved in the crash or, if you have a camera available, take pictures of the scene.
Complete the same process with any witnesses who were at the scene when the crash occurred. Remember: A reliable witness may be the difference between your claim succeeding or failing.

Don’t Forget to Submit an Illinois Crash Report

According to the Illinois State Police, every driver who is involved in a car crash must submit a crash report if the accident caused serious injuries, death or property damage totaling more than $1,500.
In most towns across Illinois, a police officer must report to the scene of the crash. If this does not happen, you will need to visit your local law enforcement office as soon as possible to file a report. If you are injured and unable to do so, a passenger who was in the vehicle can do so on your behalf.
If you were the victim of a car crash and need a professional on your side, call an experienced Chicago accident attorney from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates at (800)-985-1819. We have recovered more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of our clients. Let us put our experience to work for you.