How Does Car Insurance in Illinois Work?

If you have been involved in an accident, you might be thinking more about insurance than ever before. After all, while much of the population has auto insurance, we might not always think about what that coverage means and how it affects us.

Now, however, you might need to navigate the world of insurance, and it may seem complicated at first. With the right legal team, you can overcome that trouble and be ready to file your claim. It may be complicated at first, but our attorneys can help.

Fault and Your Claim

One of the biggest factors for your case will be fault. In many states, it doesn’t matter who is at fault: the driver’s insurance company is expected to pay out for the damages done to their insured. Illinois, however, is different.

As a fault state, drivers in Illinois who are in an accident can expect their part in the accident to matter when it comes to who’s financially responsible. If you are the one who caused the accident, your insurance company will be expected to pay for the damages.

What Is Modified Comparative Negligence?

Even if you didn’t cause the accident, you may still not be out of trouble. Illinois also observes modified comparative negligence, a complex phrase that, simply put, means that your part in the accident matters.

For example, if you were in an accident, and you didn’t cause it but still contributed by acting negligently, you may be found a percent at fault. In states with comparative negligence, your settlement could be devalued by that same percentage.

Illinois adds an additional step by barring recovery of damages if that percentage is over 50 percent. You could lose your chance for recovery if an insurer or opposing attorney is successfully able to convince a judge or jury of this.

We Can Help with Your Auto Injury Claim

Getting the proper insurance claim after an accident isn’t always easy: Insurance laws can be difficult to follow without someone to help. At Mahoney & Mahoney, LLC, we want to make sure you understand your claim so that you can get the funds you need after an accident.

If you have questions about your claim or would like to speak to one of our attorneys about a case, reach out to our offices. Contacting us is simple: Just fill out our online form below or call us at 815-656-4600. We’re here to help you get the settlement you need.