In Illinois, there were 285,477 motor vehicle crashes in 2013, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation. The likelihood of a collision is high, as any car accident attorney Chicago knows. However, it is possible for drivers to plan ahead to reduce the financial impact accidents often produce.
It is common for people to assume that their car insurance policies will protect them, but not all coverage is the same. Some policies require high deductibles or a greater amount of initial out-of-pocket expense. Reviewing all the policy options can help an individual to choose the coverage that will be most effective in the case of an accident. Understanding the details of a policy can prevent the delay of payment or reimbursement after an accident.
Choosing coverage
Liability insurance is the minimum amount of coverage a person can carry, and it covers only the damages the other person in the accident sustains. This may leave the individual at fault with no way to pay for repairs or replacement of a vehicle.
There are suitable options for every situation. For example, if a person owes a balance on the automobile that is greater than its worth, gap insurance will pay the balance of the loan if the vehicle is unable to be repaired. It is important to consider all types of available insurance, including the following:
- Comprehensive
- Uninsured motorist
- Medical
- Collision
Sometimes what appears to be a fender dent has damaged the frame of the vehicle and made it unsafe to drive. Property-damage liability coverage can help cover costs of repairs or replacement. Purchasing between $25,000 and $30,000 of coverage is adequate for most vehicles. A car accident attorney in Chicago may suggest that individuals choose coverage that pays for a rental car, as well, since repairs often take more than two or three days.
Supplementing with health care insurance
Injuries have the potential to create expenses much higher than those incurred by vehicle damage. Even if it seems as if there are no physical repercussions from the crash, an injury such as whiplash can lead to chronic pain. Physical therapy and other common treatments often last for many weeks. It is critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible for an exam and x-rays to ensure that the level of care is delivered to avoid becoming injured further. The initial visit can also provide an estimate on future costs.
A car accident attorney in Chicago knows that acquiring suitable car and health care coverage may allow victims to focus on recovery without anxiety over expenses.