Marc Alberts

What to Do If You’re Hit by an Uninsured Driver in Chicago

Being involved in a car accident is stressful under any circumstances, but the situation can become far more complicated when the at-fault driver does not have insurance. Even though Illinois law requires motorists to carry liability coverage, many drivers still operate vehicles without insurance. When an uninsured driver causes a crash, recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage can feel overwhelming.

 

Fortunately, there are still options available. The experienced Chicago car accident lawyers at Alberts & Eiler P.C. help injured victims understand their rights and pursue compensation after uninsured motorist accidents throughout Illinois.

Take Immediate Safety and Reporting Steps After the Accident

 

After any car accident, safety should always be your first priority. Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately. When an uninsured driver is involved, obtaining an official police report is especially important, as it creates a formal record of the crash and documents that the other driver lacked insurance.

 

While waiting for law enforcement, gather as much information as possible, including:

  • The other driver’s name and contact information

  • Vehicle make, model, and license plate

  • Photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions

These details can be critical when filing an insurance claim or working with a Chicago personal injury attorney to pursue compensation.

 

You should also notify your insurance company promptly. Illinois follows an at-fault insurance system, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the resulting damages. Establishing fault early can directly impact how your claim is handled.

How Your Auto Insurance May Cover an Uninsured Driver Accident

 

If the uninsured driver is found to be at fault, your own insurance policy may still provide financial protection. Many Illinois drivers carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which is designed specifically for accidents involving uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.

 

Uninsured motorist coverage may help pay for:

  • Medical expenses

  • Lost wages from missed work

  • Pain and suffering damages

Additional coverages such as collision insurance or personal injury protection (PIP) may also help cover vehicle repairs or medical bills regardless of fault.

 

If you are unsure what your policy includes, a Chicago accident attorney at Alberts & Eiler P.C. can review your coverage and explain which benefits may apply to your situation.

Can You Sue an Uninsured Driver After a Car Accident?

In some cases, accident victims consider filing a lawsuit against the uninsured driver to recover damages. A personal injury claim may allow you to pursue compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, pain and suffering, and other losses.

 

However, lawsuits against uninsured drivers are not always practical. If the at-fault driver lacks financial resources or assets, even a successful judgment may not result in meaningful compensation.

Speaking with an experienced Illinois car accident lawyer can help you determine whether legal action makes sense and what recovery options are realistically available.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

 

Hit-and-run accidents are treated similarly to uninsured motorist claims because the responsible driver cannot be identified. In these cases, uninsured motorist coverage often becomes the primary source of compensation.

 

After a hit-and-run accident:

  • Contact law enforcement immediately

  • File a police report as soon as possible

  • Notify your insurance company promptly

These steps help protect your claim and demonstrate that you acted responsibly following the crash.

Why Hiring a Chicago Car Accident Lawyer Matters

Accidents involving uninsured drivers often involve complex insurance issues and disputed claims. Attempting to handle the process alone can be frustrating, especially while recovering from injuries.

The Chicago personal injury attorneys at Alberts & Eiler P.C. can help by:

  • Communicating with insurance companies on your behalf

  • Negotiating fair settlements

  • Ensuring all deadlines and documentation requirements are met

  • Identifying the best strategy for maximizing compensation

Having legal representation can significantly reduce stress and help protect your financial future.

Take Action Quickly to Protect Your Rights

Uninsured driver accidents present unique challenges, but taking the right steps early can make a meaningful difference. Documenting the accident, understanding your insurance coverage, and seeking legal guidance can strengthen your claim and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

 

If you or a loved one was injured by an uninsured or hit-and-run driver, contact Alberts & Eiler P.C. today for a free consultation. An experienced Chicago car accident lawyer can review your case and explain your legal options.