Illinois Department of Insurance Reminds Consumers to Review Auto Insurance Coverage Before Accidents Occur

Staff Writer

Aledo Times Record

CHICAGO - At the time of a car

accident, too many motorists are not fully aware of

what type of coverage their insurance provides. The

Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI) is reminding

consumers to review auto insurance policies and is

providing helpful steps to take in the event of such

an emergency.

“When a car accident occurs, no one can better

understand the feelings of trauma and confusion than

those involved,” said Jack Messmore, Acting Director,

Illinois Department of Insurance. “The Department is

encouraging consumers to review auto insurance

policies in advance to better prepare for unexpected

emergencies.”

DOI, in cooperation with the National Association of

Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), offer consumers a

list of basic tips to follow after an accident.

• Be Prepared Before and After an Accident: By law,

consumers should have a valid insurance card.

Consumers should review insurance policies to be

aware of deductible amounts, liability limits and

towing or rental coverage. During the time of an

accident, motorists should remain calm, stay in their

car if it is unsafe, call police with basic

information such as the location or serious injuries.

Depending on the circumstances of the accident,

exchange personal information including insurance

with the other driver(s) involved, take any photos if

possible, take notes of the accident events and find

out where to get a copy of the police report. If

police do not come to the scene, find out where to

file an incident report.

• Filing Claims: After an accident occurs, it is the

responsibility of the drivers involved to contact

their insurance company. Drivers involved should have

available the police report, insurance card, basic

information about the accident

and a clear understanding of whose coverage pays for

which damages. In case of injuries, ask your

insurance provider if the insured lives in a fault or

no-fault state and details about medical expenses.

DOI encourages consumers to contact its office in

case of problems with filing or settling the claim

with the insurance company by phone at 217-782-4515

or through its website at www.insurance.illinois.gov.

For a complete list of the consumer alert checklist,

visit

www.naic.org/documents/consumer_alert_understandin_auto.htm

or to download the Consumer’s Guide to Auto Insurance visit