The claims process might seem complex, especially for people making an insurance claim for the first time. However, it is, as we’ve mentioned, relatively straightforward, albeit challenging at times.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

You will have to inform your insurance provider of the accident in order to start your insurance claim. Give them the details of the accident, as well as any relevant information, including that of involved parties and witnesses and descriptions of damages.

Typically, your insurance company will contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company on your behalf. In the event that you both share the same insurance provider, they will assign separate agents to both of your claims.

A personal injury attorney can build a case for your claim as soon as the process starts. At this stage, that means gathering evidence to prove damages and that you need compensation.

The Insurer Sends an Adjuster

At this point, the insurance provider will assign an agent called an insurance adjuster to your case. Their job is to investigate the accident so they can assign a monetary value to the damages.

The adjuster will also – as the job title suggests – adjust the value they will recommend based on discoveries made during the investigation. In an at-fault state such as Illinois, this largely means determining the distribution of fault among all parties involved.

Negotiations

Once the adjuster’s investigation has concluded, they will report their findings to the insurance provider, who will then make a decision regarding your claim. If the claim is approved, you will be given an offer to cover the amount the adjuster recommended.

Sometimes, however, the claim can be denied. Alternatively, it may be approved, but the offer that follows might be insufficient to cover all your damages.

In these instances, your lawyer will help you file an appeal and will organize a negotiation with the insurance company to give you a fairer amount. It isn’t uncommon for lawyers to get their clients up to four times the initial offer, even after deducting their fees.

Lawsuits, Settlements, and Court Cases

If you cannot come to an agreement with the insurer, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit. Most cases are settled out of court because both individual parties and insurance companies want to avoid the costs of a court case, but in either case, your lawyer will fight for you.

Honors & Awards

We are proud of:
National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40
Expertise.com Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Chicago
Google 4.5 Star Rating
Erin Kuhfuss
Rated by Super Lawyers


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Find out why so many clients appreciate the amount of work we put into their case. You can learn about your options during a free consultation by calling 312-999-9990 or completing our online intake form. We represent Illinois clients from our downtown Chicago office location.

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