September 1, 2025 | Car Accidents
After a crash, many drivers are unsure what steps to take next. One of the most common questions is: How long do you have to report a car accident in Illinois? The answer depends on the circumstances of the crash. In most cases, you’ll need to act quickly to comply with state law.
Failing to report an accident on time can result in fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. Knowing your deadlines and responsibilities can help you avoid severe penalties and protect your legal rights.
Illinois Law Requires You to Report Certain Accidents
Under Illinois law, you are required to report a car accident to the police if:
- Someone is injured or killed
- Property damage exceeds $1,500 (or $500 if any driver lacks insurance)
- The accident involves a government vehicle or results in significant public property damage
In these cases, you must call law enforcement immediately and remain at the scene until an officer arrives. If no officer responds and the crash meets the reporting criteria, you must still file a report with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).
How Long Do You Have to File a Crash Report?
If you’re required to file a written crash report with the state, you must do so within 10 days of the accident. This report goes to IDOT, not the police. You can access the necessary forms online through the Illinois State Police Crash Reports page.
Failing to file this report can result in:
- Suspension of your driver’s license
- A delay in insurance claim processing
- Problems proving liability if legal action is needed later
Even if the police respond and write their own report, you may still be required to submit a personal crash report. Check the instructions on your traffic citation or accident notice for details.
Why Timely Reporting Matters
Reporting your accident as soon as possible helps protect you in several ways, including:
- Creating an official record of the incident
- Preventing disputes about who was at fault
- Supporting your insurance claim
- Reducing the risk of license penalties
- Preserving key evidence and witness statements
Insurance companies often require you to report accidents promptly (often within 24 hours) even if no one was injured. Check your policy for specific requirements.
What Happens if You Don’t Report an Accident?
Failing to report a reportable accident in Illinois can lead to:
- License suspension by the Secretary of State
- Fines and other penalties under the traffic law
- Delayed or denied insurance claims
- Civil liability if someone later files a lawsuit against you
Drivers who leave the scene of a crash without reporting it can also face criminal charges, especially in cases involving injury or death.
Reporting Minor Accidents
If your crash does not involve injuries and the total property damage is under $1,500 (and all drivers involved are insured), you are not legally required to report the accident. However, it is still a good idea to document the event.
You should:
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver
- Take photos of all vehicles and any visible damage
- Make a personal note of the time, date, and location
- Contact your insurer to report the incident
This documentation can protect you if the other party later tries to file a claim or lawsuit.
Contact the Chicago Car Accident Attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for Help Today
In most cases, you have 10 days to report a car accident in Illinois to the state. However, if someone is injured or the damage is severe, you must notify the police immediately. Failing to report an accident can carry serious consequences. To protect your license and your rights, it’s always better to report early and document thoroughly.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Chicago, IL, Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Chicago car accident lawyer.
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
We serve Cook County and its surrounding areas:
Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
5351 West Belmont Avenue
Chicago, IL 60641
(312) 635-5400
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