How Long After a Car Accident Can You File an Injury Claim?

How Long After a Car Accident Can You File an Injury Claim?

Hurt in a car crash in Illinois? You may have the right to seek financial compensation for your damages. However, it is incredibly important to understand, that there is a limited amount of time that you will have to take legal action. For this reason, do not wait to speak with an attorney.

At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, we are committed to helping injured victims protect their rights and secure maximum recovery. Here, our knowledgeable  Rolling Meadows auto accident lawyer highlights the key things that you should know regarding the length of time that you have to file a claim after a crash in Illinois. 

Illinois Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Injury Claims: Two Years

Injured victims have a limited amount of time to bring a claim to seek compensation for their crash. Under Illinois law (735 Ill. Comp. Stat. § 5/13-202), there is a two-year statute of limitations for automobile accident injury claims. Be sure that you understand the significance of this legal deadline. If you fail to file your claim within this period, you will likely be barred from recovering any compensation for your injuries at all. There are very few exceptions to the Illinois car accident statutes of limitations.  

You Should Notify Your Own Insurance Carrier Right Away

While the statute allows two years to file a claim, it is essential not to confuse this with the time frame you have to notify your insurance company about the accident. Many insurance policies stipulate that the insured party must report any accident promptly. Most often, you should notify your insurer within a matter of days, if not hours. A delay could jeopardize your insurance coverage or give the insurer grounds to outright deny your claim.

Be Proactive: Do Not Fall Behind the Insurance Company in the Claims Process

Although two years may seem like plenty of time to bring a car accident injury claim, it is important to get started with the process as early as possible. Indeed, taking a proactive approach to your injury claim is crucial. Remember, insurance companies are businesses aiming to minimize payouts. If you fall behind in the claims process or if you’re passive, you risk missing out on the compensation you rightly deserve. The sooner you speak to an experienced Illinois auto accident injury lawyer, the better position you will be in to recover the full and fair compensation you deserve. 

Contact Our Rolling Meadows, IL Car Accident Attorney Today

At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, our experienced Rolling Meadows auto accident lawyers provide proactive and results-driven legal representation that victims and families can trust. You may have suffered significant losses after your car accident, it is imperative that you get the full amount of compensation that you are due. 

Do not take on the insurer by yourself. Reach out to us today by phone or connect with us online to set up your free consultation. From our Rolling Meadows law office, we fight for car accident victims throughout Cook County.