What happens if you’re in an accident the same day you bought insurance?

Motor Vehicles Accidents - October 31, 2023

If you get into an accident the same day you bought an insurance policy, are you fortunate or out of luck? The accident itself is an unfortunate event. And if your insurance is for the brand-new car you just bought, it is incredibly “unlucky.” As far as your policy goes, though, the news is a little brighter. Your coverage should apply.

Still, having someone on your side when navigating this brand-new policy is crucial. If you are in an accident the same day you bought insurance, connect with a Chicago car accident lawyer from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

When does insurance coverage start?

Once you purchase an insurance policy, any accident that occurs after your purchase should be covered, even accidents that happen on the same day. Still, when you buy your policy, ask the adjuster when it becomes effective.

If having coverage start “immediately” is a choice, you want the opportunity to make that choice. Some companies offer a discount if you agree to a short waiting period, but if you’re driving right away, that discount is not worth the risk. Any savings will be eaten up and surpassed by accident costs, should you experience one.

Policy coverage starts once your coverage starts once you make your first payment. Take the opportunity to make that payment before getting behind the wheel.

Is insurance coverage retroactive?

Insurance policies do not travel backward. Coverage starts with payment and continues as long as the payments do. If you have an accident and then buy insurance that same day, your accident is not covered.

Never attempt to “adjust” the timing of an accident. If it occurred the same day you bought your insurance policy but hours before that purchase, do not make things worse by claiming the accident happened after your purchase.

Falsifying the timing of the accident is an act of insurance fraud. Chicago drivers charged with and convicted of insurance fraud can face severe penalties.

You bought insurance the same day as your accident. Now what?

After an accident, there are actions to avoid and essential steps to take. Following these steps will keep you in compliance with Illinois law and ensure you are treated fairly by your new insurance company.

• Call the authorities. Police will take an official accident report and help keep you and other drivers safe by directing traffic around the scene.
• Alert the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT) if the accident caused injuries of over $1500 in property damage.
• Get medical care. If the accident is severe, you will need emergency care. If you don’t, get prompt medical attention anyway. What seems to be minor injuries can worsen as hours go by or as the adrenaline wears off.
• Gather evidence. If you can, take photos and video of the scene and take down contact information from witnesses.
• Connect with a Chicago car accident attorney. Your attorney will act as your representative, handling accident discussions with the insurance company and reviewing your policy to protect you from unfair coverage denials.

Reach out to a skilled Chicago car accident lawyer today

By purchasing an insurance policy, you have done the right thing. If you get in an accident that very same day, your insurance company needs to do the right thing and honor your coverage without giving you a hassle. A car accident lawyer from Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates will handle your insurance issues for you, and if the other driver is at fault for the accident, help you file a personal injury claim to recover your losses. Call (800) 985-1819 to schedule a free consultation. We are ready to get to work.