Your Rights After An Accident in Illinois

Know your legal right to choose your repair shop To ensure your car is properly repaired after an accident

Your Rights After an Accident in Illinois

Illinois law provides important consumer protections after an auto accident, but many drivers are never clearly told how those protections apply during the insurance claim process.

This page explains how auto claims are supposed to be handled in Illinois, what insurers are expected to do, and what you should understand before repairs begin.

How Auto Claims Are Handled in Illinois

Auto insurance claims in Illinois are governed by the Illinois Insurance Code and regulations enforced by the Illinois Department of Insurance.

These rules require insurers to investigate claims reasonably, communicate accurately with vehicle owners, and avoid unfair or deceptive settlement practices.

Illinois law does not guarantee specific settlement outcomes, but it is intended to ensure claims are handled fairly and based on complete and accurate information.

You Have the Right to Choose the Repair Shop

In Illinois, insurance companies may recommend repair facilities, but they cannot require you to use a specific shop.

Choosing your own repair shop does not void coverage, reduce payment, or eliminate warranty protections.

Insurance Cannot Steer Your Repair Decision

Illinois law prohibits insurers from using misleading statements, pressure, or unfair practices to influence where repairs are performed.

Statements suggesting delays, lower quality repairs, or coverage issues based on shop choice reflect insurer preferences, not your legal rights.

Repair Estimates Are Often Incomplete

Initial insurance estimates in Illinois are often written to begin the claim process.

These estimates are not final repair plans. Additional damage, procedures, or safety considerations may be identified as repairs progress.

Safety Systems Must Be Considered

Modern vehicles rely on cameras, sensors, radar, and advanced driver assistance systems to operate safely.

These systems can be affected by even minor accidents and do not always trigger warning lights when out of calibration. If inspections or calibrations are required to restore safe operation, they must be considered as part of the repair.