Car accidents are stressful, confusing, and often overwhelming. If you’ve been in a car crash in Illinois, it’s critical to understand what steps you need to take and when.
One of the most important steps after a collision is reporting the accident. But how long do you have to report a car accident in Illinois? This article will break down everything you need to know in clear, simple terms so you can protect yourself and your legal rights.
Understanding the Legal Requirements
Illinois law requires drivers to report certain types of car accidents. Not every accident needs to be reported, but many do.
You typically must report an accident if:
- Someone is injured or killed
- There is more than $1,500 in property damage
- There is more than $500 in damage, and one of the drivers is uninsured
These rules are in place to ensure serious accidents are properly investigated. If you are unsure whether your accident meets these requirements, it’s usually safest to report it. Even if it seems minor, a police report can help with insurance claims and legal matters later.
Time Limit to Report the Accident to the Police
If your accident falls under the conditions listed above, you must report it to the police right away—ideally at the scene of the crash. Illinois law says drivers should contact local law enforcement as soon as possible, especially if there are injuries or serious damage.
In most cases, police will come to the scene, investigate, and file a report. If the police do not respond, or if you leave the scene without reporting, you must go to the nearest police station and report the crash within 10 days.
Failing to report an accident could lead to fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges, especially if someone was hurt.
Time Limit to Report the Accident to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)
If police do not investigate your accident, or it wasn’t reported at the scene, you may be required to file a written crash report with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). You must file this report within 10 days of the accident. You can fill out the Illinois Motorist Report and send it to IDOT by mail.
This is separate from a police report and is meant for the state’s records. Again, this report is required only for accidents involving injury, death, or significant property damage. If you’re unsure whether you need to file it, talk to a lawyer or contact IDOT.
Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Besides the police and the state, you also need to report the accident to your auto insurance company. Each insurance company has its own rules, but you should generally contact them as soon as possible, preferably within 24 to 72 hours.
Even if you think you weren’t at fault, you must tell your insurance provider what happened. They may need to start an investigation or work with the other driver’s insurance company.
Delaying this step can affect your ability to get compensation for damage or injuries. Sometimes, waiting too long to report the accident to your insurer could even result in denied coverage.
Why Timely Reporting Matters
There are several reasons why it’s important to report an accident quickly:
- It keeps you in compliance with Illinois law
- It protects your ability to file an insurance claim
- It helps establish the facts of the accident while they are still fresh
- It gives you a stronger legal position if you need to go to court
Delays in reporting can raise questions from insurance adjusters and judges. They may think you’re hiding something or being dishonest. This could hurt your case, especially if you’re trying to recover money for injuries, vehicle damage, or lost wages.
Contact Our Chicago Car Accident Lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for Help After a Crash
Reporting a car accident in Illinois is not just a good idea—it’s the law. Failing to report can lead to fines, legal trouble, and difficulty getting the compensation you deserve.
To have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for the loss of your loved one, it’s important to partner with a lawyer who is experienced in these types of claims. With a tenacious and compassionate attorney by your side, you can pursue both healing and justice.
For more information, please contact the experienced Chicago personal injury lawyers at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys today. We offer free consultations.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and its surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone:(312) 726-1616
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Chicago
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.8815493,-87.6327515
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
Phone: (815) 726-1616
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Joliet
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.5254295,-88.1381011
