Illinois Car Accident Reporting Basics

Whether you're in Chicago or the suburbs, you need to be careful driving in the State of Illinois. If you get into a car crash, you should know whether to file a car crash report. Before August 2021, state law required motorists to file a car accident report with the Department of Transportation (DOT) if the accident caused death, bodily injury, or more than $1,500 in property damage. But, this changed when the Illinois General Assembly passed Public Act 102-0560.

Under the new act, drivers no longer have to report motor vehicle accidents. Only state employees are required to do so now. But, that does not mean you shouldn’t report the crash. It’s still in your best interest to document the crash. This will help support your insurance claim and, if necessary, your personal injury lawsuit.

Here, we’ll discuss Illinois’ car accident reporting laws. We will also describe how to file your report. Finally, we’ll explain why a police report is critical to your car accident claim. 

Illinois Car Accident Report Overview

The following table summarizes auto accident reporting under Illinois state law, including how to file a car crash report.

Note: State laws are subject to change through new legislation, higher court rulings, ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information, consult an injury lawyer or conduct legal research to verify your state laws.

Additional Reporting to Law Enforcement in Illinois

Many towns in Illinois require law enforcement officers to attend accident scenes. But, if a police officer doesn't visit the accident scene, you can still file a crash report with the local Illinois police department, sheriff's office, or Illinois State Police. 

This is separate from the report you’ll file with the Illinois DOT. If you cannot file this report due to a personal injury, your passenger may file it.

Do Not Leave an Accident Scene

Never leave the scene of an accident, especially if it results in bodily injury, death, or property damage. You may need to administer help to people with potential injuries. You must also be present to give a statement to the authorities. 

If you leave an accident scene, you’ll face severe consequences. According to Illinois Statute 625 ILCS 5/11-402, the State can charge you with a felony or misdemeanor if you leave the scene of a motor vehicle accident.

If the crash results in bodily injury or death, the State may charge you with a Class 4 felony. This charge carries a penalty of up to three years in prison and fines of up to $25,000. If the accident only causes property damage, the State can charge you with a Class A misdemeanor. This offense carries a penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine of $2,500.

In either case, you’ll also face a suspension of your driver’s license.

Research Illinois Law

• Official State Codes
• Illinois State Laws
• Illinois Statutes on Vehicles
• Illinois Traffic Laws
• State Traffic Laws

Questions About Your Illinois Car Accident? Get an Attorney's Help

If you still have questions about filing an auto accident report in Illinois, contact a local Illinois car accident attorney. They can answer any questions and assist with your car accident case.