State Farm is the largest auto insurer in the United States, and Illinois drivers represent a significant part of its customer base. If you’ve been in a car accident, State Farm may be involved as your insurer or as the insurer of the at-fault driver.
Understanding how State Farm handles accident claims in Illinois can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes.
Illinois Insurance Laws and State Farm Claims
Illinois is an at-fault state for car accident claims, meaning the driver who causes a crash is legally responsible for the injuries and property damage that result.Â
To ensure individuals can meet this obligation, all drivers in Illinois must carry minimum liability insurance:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $20,000 for property damage
State Farm sells higher-limit policies. If an at-fault driver only carries the minimum, victims may need to file a lawsuit to recover the rest of their damages (if their damages exceed policy limits).
The Role of State Farm After a Crash
State Farm’s role after a crash depends on whether you’re filing a third-party claim (against another driver’s policy) or a first-party claim (under your own policy).
If the at-fault driver has State Farm, you’ll need to prove liability and damages before the insurer will make an offer.
If you’re a State Farm customer, you may rely on your own coverage to cover certain costs. Examples of coverage include collision, medical payments, or uninsured motorist protection.
In both situations, State Farm assigns an adjuster whose job is to investigate and determine whether the company is liable for your losses.
Filing a State Farm Claim
You can begin a claim through several channels:
- The company’s online system or mobile app.
- By phone at 800-732-5246 (State Farm claims line).
- Through an agent (Many policyholders contact their local State Farm agent to start the process).Â
When you file, you’ll need to submit certain information along with your claim, including:
- Driver and witness information
- Policy numbers and insurance details
- The police report number, if one exists
- Documentation of the accident scene and damage
Common Challenges With State Farm Claims
State Farm has a reputation for being aggressive in defending claims. Accident victims often run into challenges such as
- Low settlement offers
- Pushing for recorded statements that can be used to limit payouts.
- Disputes over fault and accusations that you are partially to blame.
- Delays in processing
Illinois law requires insurers to act in good faith, but many claimants find themselves waiting longer than expected for a resolution.
Contact An Experienced Illinois Car Accident Lawyer for Help With a State Farm Claim
If you’ve been injured in a crash involving State Farm Insurance, you may need experienced legal representation to protect your rights and avoid mistakes that hurt your claim. An attorney can handle every aspect of the claims process on your behalf and manage negotiations and communications with the insurance company so adjusters respect your rights.
Contact Feagans Law Group for a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue a fair settlement against State Farm.