Chicago Car Accident Report

If you’ve been in an accident on Clark Street or Lake Shore Drive, you might need to file a car accident report.

This report in Chicago is mandatory in some cases and helps support insurance claims or legal disputes. Filing delays can hurt your chances of recovering compensation.

A Chicago car accident lawyer can help you navigate the reporting requirements and make sure all necessary information is included.

When Are You Required to File a Police Report in Chicago?

In Illinois, under 625 ILCS 5/11-403, drivers are legally required to file a police report if the accident involves bodily injury or death.

Additionally, if motor vehicle accidents result in property damage exceeding $1,500 (or over $500 if the driver lacks insurance), a police report must be filed.

Even if it’s not a legal requirement, it is always a good idea to report an accident to cover potentially hidden injuries or property damage.

Legal Obligations for Chicago Drivers Involved in an Accident

After an accident occurs, motorists must stop immediately and remain at the scene, call 911 to report the incident and request medical assistance, and exchange contact and insurance details with all involved drivers.

If other crash victims have injuries, you must assist them. Failure to complete these steps can lead to criminal charges.

How to File a Police Report at the Scene of an Accident in Chicago

To properly submit a police report at the scene in Chicago, follow these steps:​

• Step 1: Call 911 and request police.​
• Step 2: Provide accurate details to the responding police officer.​
• Step 3: Obtain the officer’s name and badge number.​
• Step 4: Ask about obtaining a copy of the completed crash report.​

Under CHAPTER 9-56, the city of Chicago also requires drivers involved in car accidents to report crashes and notify law enforcement. Jurisdiction varies by location, such as interstate highways, Illinois state roadways, or city streets.

Filing a Report Without Police at the Scene

If no police officers arrive at the scene, you are required to file a report within 10 days of the incident.

You can register the report either at a local police station or online with the Illinois State Police if a motor vehicle accident occurred on state highways or involved a single vehicle. Failure to report the accident within this time frame can result in a suspension of your driver’s license.

Reporting a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it is crucial not to chase the other driver. Instead, document as many details as you can for the police report, including the license plate number, vehicle description, time, and location of the incident. Immediately report the collision to the police, as hit-and-run accidents are criminal offenses.

What to Do While Waiting for Police to Arrive

While waiting for the police, exchange contact and insurance company information with the other driver, gather witness details, and take photos of the scene. Avoid admitting fault, as it may be used against you later.

How to Obtain a Copy of Your Chicago Car Crash Report

You have several options to obtain a copy of your traffic crash report in Chicago. You can request a report:

• Online: Request a traffic crash report via the Chicago Police Department website
• In Person: Visit the Chicago Police Department at 3510 S. Michigan Ave., Room 1043, Chicago, IL
• By Mail: Send a self-addressed stamped envelope along with a check or money order to the address above.

When you send your claim, include the accident date, location, and driver’s name (or RD report number).

How Much Does a Chicago Police Report Cost?

The cost of obtaining a police report in Chicago varies depending on the method of request:

• Online request: $6
• In-person or mail request:
  • Case report: $0.50
  • Traffic crash report: $5
  • Accident reconstruction report: $20

The fees are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest rates on the Chicago Police Department’s website.

Correcting Errors in Your Police Report

If your crash report has mistakes, contact the issuing police department with evidence like photos or witness statements to request a correction. Fixing errors early helps avoid issues with your claim.

Accidents Outside of Chicago

For crashes outside city limits, contact the local police agency that responded. Most offer report requests online or in person.

Timeframe for Reporting Accidents

Although you have 10 days to report an accident, it’s still best to report any crash promptly to protect your rights and document the crash.

The Impact of Timely Reporting

Failing to report motor vehicle accidents promptly can weaken your claim. Insurers and legal parties may see delays as a red flag. A timely police report provides independent evidence that supports your injury case.

Seeking Compensation After a Car Crash in Chicago

Illinois uses a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for paying damages. Victims of car accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Vehicle repairs
• Other related costs

Insurance company claims should be lodged as soon as possible, and personal injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the accident (735 ILCS 5/13-202).

Be Cautious with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may try to reduce settlements or shift blame. Avoid admitting fault or giving statements before speaking with a lawyer.

Expert Legal Counsel in Chicago

If you have been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to seek legal advice as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Chicago can manage your claim, correct police report errors, conduct investigations, gather evidence, and handle insurance negotiations.

Contact us at (888) 424-5757 or fill out our form for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.