Illinois is known for its gorgeous state parks and less-traveled, stunning roads to drive through. Visitors and locals enjoy these areas of the state for day trips and longer stays.
However, Illinois roads are not always so peaceful, even if they run through breathtaking surroundings. Those same less-traveled and rural roads can pose an exceptional risk if you are involved in an accident.
The U.S. sees millions of car accidents every year. When a crash happens in a remote area, it can be very challenging to get help fast. Knowing what to do in a situation like this can make all the difference when ensuring your safety and that of your passengers.
It can also make a difference if you sue the other driver for damages.
A sudden crash can be incredibly disconcerting and chaotic. You will very likely experience an adrenaline spike that will prevent you from feeling pain, even if you are seriously injured.
Just because you are not feeling pain yet, it doesn’t mean you should jump out of the car to confront the other driver.
Instead, stay where you are and check whether you can see injuries on yourself or your passengers. If you notice serious injuries or if a passenger is unconscious, try to keep them as still as possible until help arrives.
If you can move, check the surrounding area for potential hazards. This could be anything from leaking fuel to oncoming traffic.
No matter where you are, calling 911 is crucial. If you have cell service, dial the number and provide the responding dispatcher with as much information as possible. If you are unsure exactly where you are, try to provide landmarks or mile markers that emergency responders can look for.
Remember to tell the dispatcher about any hazards you may have noticed, especially if there are hidden steep drop-offs or dangerously sharp turns in the road.
Even if your phone shows no service, you may still be able to reach the 911 call center with no signal. You can also try to find your exact location using GPS tracking or offline maps on your phone if you have limited service.
Put your hazard lights on if your car sits near a curve or ends up in a ditch after the accident. Use road flares or a reflective triangle to signal for help if you cannot get hold of 911.
It is very important to keep a triangle and flares in an emergency kit in your car for situations like this.
Unless a fire has started or the car is unstable, staying in your vehicle is generally safer while waiting for help. This is especially true if the weather is severe or you are driving in low-visibility conditions.
If you cannot reach a 911 dispatcher and have no service to call anyone else, try getting to a higher elevation. Only do this if you can safely return to your vehicle.
If you have a satellite phone or personal locator beacon, you should be able to use it to send an emergency distress signal. If you don’t have these devices, you should seriously consider investing in them if you frequently drive in remote areas.
Alternatively, you can try to flag down another vehicle. Be very observant and careful before accepting help from strangers. If you feel uneasy, wait for emergency responders to arrive instead.
Moreover, if the surrounding terrain is rough or snowing, staying in your vehicle may be better. If the car is not immediately visible from the road, first responders will search until they find you.
While waiting for help, Take photos and videos of the accident scene. Get photos of the vehicle damage, nearby traffic signs, and visible injuries. You will need this as evidence for your insurance claim and any potential legal action you want to take.
You should also exchange information with the other driver (if they are unhurt and able to). Ideally, you want the driver’s full name, contact details, and insurance information. You can take photos of their license plate and note a description of the vehicle.
Illinois law requires you to report a car accident to the police if there are injuries, more than $1,500 in damage, or fatalities.
You must also report the accident to your insurance provider to complete the claims process. Give the insurer all the factual information about the accident without speculating or admitting fault.
If you are injured after a remote area car accident caused by a negligent driver, you should consider hiring a lawyer. A skilled car accident lawyer can help you get compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost income.
You can also consult a lawyer if your insurer denies or tries to reduce your claim. They may do this without limited evidence or no witnesses (because of the remote location). A lawyer will counter the insurer’s tactics to ensure you get a fair settlement.
If the other driver wants to sue you for damages or the accident was a hit-and-run, you will also need a lawyer’s help.
If you are in an accident in a remote area, chances are it can happen again in the future. Be prepared for anything by keeping an emergency kit in your car. This kit should contain first aid supplies, a flashlight, batteries, blankets, road flares, and a triangle. You can also add a portable charger and non-perishable food and water.
Always inform family and friends where you are traveling and how long you expect to be gone. You must also ensure your car is in good condition before long trips to remote areas. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and battery health. A car that is not well-maintained carries an extra risk of mechanical failure, which can lead to an accident.
No matter who causes the accident, always call 911 and do your best to document the scene. Your lawyer will assist you if you need more evidence for a legal case. By following the above guidelines, you can get through the most challenging situation and get the compensation you deserve.
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