Chicago Injury Lawyer Blog
Chicago’s busy streets and heavy traffic unfortunately come with serious risks—including the growing problem of hit-and-run accidents. Every year, thousands of Chicagoans are affected by drivers who cause crashes and then flee the scene, leaving behind confusion, damage, and devastation. These incidents not only threaten public safety but often leave victims wondering how they will recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), there were 295,888 motor vehicle crashes in Illinois in 2021. In Chicago alone, during the 12-month period ending in October 2021, there were an astonishing 36,305 hit-and-run crashes—an 18% increase from the previous year, averaging almost 100 hit-and-run incidents every single day. Tragically, these crashes resulted in 40 deaths—double the number of fatalities compared to the prior year.
Why Do Hit-and-Run Drivers Flee?
There are many reasons why drivers choose to leave the scene of a crash:
– Driving without insurance
– Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
– Outstanding warrants or prior criminal offenses
– Fear of being arrested or penalized
– Driving without a valid license
– Panic and poor decision-making
Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in Illinois. Under 625 ILCS 5/11-401, drivers involved in crashes resulting in injury or death must stop and remain at the scene. Failing to do so can lead to serious criminal charges, including felony penalties.
What To Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run crash in Chicago, it’s critical to protect your rights immediately:
- Call 911 immediately and report the accident.
- Gather as much information as possible, including taking pictures of the driver and their vehicle, if possible.
- Seek medical attention right away.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Contact an experienced personal injury attorney.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Helps Hit-and-Run Victims
Many hit-and-run accident victims don’t realize they may still be entitled to compensation even if the at-fault driver is never found. In Illinois, drivers are required to carry Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage as part of their car insurance policies.
Through your UM coverage, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
– Medical expenses
– Lost wages
– Pain and suffering
– Property damage
– Permanent disability or disfigurement
However, insurance companies often make these claims difficult. That’s why having experienced legal representation is essential.
Our Experience Fighting for Hit-and-Run Victims
At John J. Malm & Associates, we have years of experience representing victims of hit-and-run accidents in Chicago, Naperville, St. Charles, and throughout Illinois. We understand how devastating these accidents can be—not only because of the physical injuries but because the responsible driver often disappears without accountability.
As Chicago car accident attorney John Malm explains: “We believe that no victim should suffer financially because of a driver who chooses to flee the scene. Our firm has spent years holding insurance companies accountable and ensuring our clients receive every dollar they are entitled to under the law. We stand ready to help hit-and-run victims seek justice and fair compensation.”
We have successfully fought for our clients’ rights to bring uninsured motorist claims and have prevailed in both the trial courts and appellate courts of Illinois. Our attorneys have recovered millions of dollars for victims of hit-and-run crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago Hit and Run Claims
Q: How long do I have to file a hit-and-run uninsured motorist claim?
A: In Illinois, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. However, insurance policies may impose shorter notice requirements.
Q: Will my insurance rates increase if I file a UM claim?
A: In most cases, uninsured motorist claims do not impact your premium because you were not at fault.
Q: What damages can I recover in a hit-and-run claim?
A: You can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Q: What if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a hit-and-run driver?
A: Pedestrians and cyclists may also file uninsured motorist claims under their own auto insurance policies.
Q: Do I need a police report to file a UM claim?
A: Yes. Most insurance companies require that you report the accident to the police to support your claim.
Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for your Chicago Hit and Run Accident Case?
At John J. Malm & Associates, we are a team of six award-winning car accident attorneys with over 90 years of combined legal experience. We have offices in Naperville and St. Charles, and we have spent years fighting for our clients’ rights in uninsured motorist claims.
We have successfully challenged insurance companies and prevailed in both the trial courts and appellate courts of Illinois. Our team has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of injury victims, including those involved in hit-and-run accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run crash in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you recover the compensation you deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable.