When should I contact the police after a car accident? In Illinois, you must report a crash to the police if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,500. It’s advisable to contact the police immediately after any accident. A police report is crucial for documenting the accident details, including witness statements and observations, and it serves as essential evidence for filing insurance claims. Calling law enforcement after a wreck is essential to ensure a clear record.
For legal advice regarding your car accident case in Illinois, contact Lloyd Miller Law Group at (773) 838-8100.
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When Should You Contact the Police After an Accident?
In the United States, there are approximately 6 million car accidents each year, resulting in around 40,000 fatalities. Given these figures, the chance of getting involved in a car accident is high. It’s crucial to know how to respond in the event of a collision to minimize complications on the scene.
Starting January 1, 2025, if you have an accident in Illinois and no police officer is on-site, you must report it promptly to the local police or to the county sheriff or state police. Reporting the accident is mandatory in the following situations:
- If anyone is injured or killed;
- If property damage exceeds $1,500, or over $500 if the vehicle is uninsured;
- If the accident involves a school bus that results in property damage, injury, or death; or
- If the accident occurs within 50 feet of a school bus, causing injury or death to someone nearby.
Drivers should contact law enforcement by the quickest means available following an accident. Typically, this entails pulling over, sharing information, and calling the police immediately. If a driver cannot make the call due to injuries, another passenger should do so.
You can still file a report even if an accident does not meet these criteria. It’s advisable to seek police assistance when involved in an accident. Some instances where you should contact the police include:
Fault Isn’t Clear
If it’s not obvious who is to blame or if there’s a disagreement among those involved, contact the police to create an official report that contains details to help clarify the situation later.
Hit-and-run
If the other driver departs without sharing their information, you should promptly call the police to report the hit-and-run incident.
Driver impairment
If you believe that a driver may be impaired by drugs or alcohol, it’s important to prioritize your safety by calling for help. Involving law enforcement guarantees that appropriate legal measures are implemented.
Minor Accidents
Filing reports for minor car accidents, even if they don’t meet legal reporting requirements, can benefit future disputes. A police report captures essential details, establishes a timeline, and notes contributing factors like weather or road conditions. Insurance companies may require these reports for claims, and an Illinois car accident lawyer can use this information to help you seek compensation.
The Importance of Obtaining a Copy of the Police Report
A police report is a document compiled by law enforcement officers who arrive at the scene of a car accident. It contains essential information such as the incident’s date, time, and location, along with statements from those involved and any witnesses present. Additionally, the report usually features observations made by the responding officer, including details about road and weather conditions, visible damages, and any citations that may have been issued.
This report is an impartial account of the accident, making it a crucial resource when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Here are some reasons why this document is significant:
Establishing a Record
Creating a trustworthy record via an accident report is crucial for various reasons. It guarantees an official narrative of the incident, which can prove extremely useful in various situations that may arise in the future.
Importance of Recording the Date, Time, and Location
Recording the accident’s precise date, time, and location establishes a clear and factual foundation for any future claims or legal proceedings. This information is essential for confirming that the incident occurred and acts as a reference for everyone involved. The exact date, time, and location are crucial for accurately reconstructing the event.
Details of Involved Parties and Witnesses
An accident report contains the names, contact details, and other pertinent information about all individuals involved in the collision, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses. Maintaining this information is essential for follow-up investigations and communication. It allows for easy contact with all parties for additional statements or verification if necessary.
Objective Account of the Incident
A police officer’s report delivers an unbiased description of the event. In contrast to personal memories that may be subjective or lacking detail, an officer’s report relies on observations and statements gathered on-site. This neutral viewpoint can aid in clarifying disagreements regarding the incident and enhance the documented facts’ reliability.
Accuracy in Documenting the Events
The pressure following an accident can make it difficult to recall details precisely. A police report documents the events as they occurred, guaranteeing that essential information is preserved and accurately represented. This level of accuracy is vital, as it helps create a clear chronological account of the incident.
The Role of Police Officers in Creating the Report
Police officers receive training in gathering and documenting evidence at accident sites. Their expertise guarantees that all important details are captured accurately and thoroughly. This involves taking photographs, measuring skid marks, and recording the positions of vehicles. Their training ensures that the report is detailed and complete.
Preserving Evidence and Information
Collecting evidence promptly is crucial, as both memories can deteriorate, and physical evidence can be compromised or modified over time. Creating a timely accident report guarantees that all details are documented while they remain clear and accurate. This is important for preserving the evidence’s integrity. The quicker the report is completed, the more dependable the information will be.
Ensuring All Parties Have the Same Information
An accident report guarantees that all parties involved receive the same information. Having this transparency can prevent misunderstandings and facilitate a just resolution of issues that come up. It serves as a shared foundation for discussions and negotiations.
Value of a Third-Party Account in Disputes
In conflicts, a police officer’s third-party account can be valuable. It offers an impartial viewpoint that can help shed light on the events and aid in resolving disputes. This is especially crucial during legal proceedings. An objective account enhances the reliability of the incident report.
Determining Fault
If you are trying to prove you are not at fault in a car accident, the police report can assist. Although a police report does not establish liability, it frequently contains the officer’s observations or impressions that may indicate who could be at fault. This information can be valuable for insurance adjusters or legal professionals in evaluating liability. Details from witnesses, citations, and the officer’s account of the accident scene all play a role in determining who is responsible for the incident.
Supporting Your Insurance Claim
Obtaining a police report when you file an insurance claim can strengthen your case. Insurance companies depend on factual data to evaluate claims, and a police report is a trustworthy source. It offers an impartial account of the incident, which can support your narrative and safeguard you against potential conflicts. In cases where the accident accounts differ, the police report can act as a reliable reference.
How to Obtain the Police Report
In Illinois, you have several options on when to get a police report. Remember, hiring a lawyer after a car accident can assist you in the process.
At the Scene
Call the police immediately after an accident, especially if there are injuries, significant damage, or a hit-and-run. Officers will generate a report, so get their name, badge number, and report number.
Online Request
If you didn’t obtain the report at the scene after the accident report filing process, you can visit the Chicago Police Department website. Reports are usually available within 5 to 7 days. Go to the e-Services section and select “Traffic Crash Reports,” providing details like report number, date, and driver’s name.
In-Person or Mail
You can also get the report in person at the Records Division during business hours, bringing ID and about $5 for fees. Alternatively, you can mail a request with all the necessary information and payment.The police report protects your legal rights and facilitates a smoother resolution with insurance companies. Follow the proper procedure to ensure you receive it. Your attorney can assist you in obtaining a copy of the police report as part of their strategy for settling a car accident claim. For assistance with obtaining the police report or any other aspect of your car accident claim, contact us at Lloyd Miller Law Group.
