How do I obtain an accident report in Chicago?
Motor Vehicles Accidents - April 9, 2024
When pursuing compensation for a car accident, you need all the evidence to take action. For example, the police will likely file a Chicago accident report from the scene, which can be valuable evidence. However, you may not know how to obtain an accident report in Chicago.
Your Chicago car accident lawyer can help you make the most of your Chicago police accident report, using it to understand better the exact details of what happened. Your attorney can also help you get a copy of this report so that you can use it throughout your case, referring to it as needed.
When should I report an accident to the police?
Following a serious car accident, you will likely be required to report it. In Illinois, any accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage of more than $1,500 under 625 ILCS 5/11-408 must be reported to the police. You can also report this accident if you are unsure of the value of the damages or if you want a Chicago accident report for insurance purposes.
Remember that reporting your accident as soon as possible is critical. If your accident meets the reporting requirements, you must contact the police right away. Failure to report an accident that meets these reporting requirements may result in legal penalties.
Fortunately, alerting the police is the simplest way to create this report. Once you notify the police and they arrive at the scene, they will take note of the accident and make this report. They will then file this report with the Chicago Police Department.
How do I request Chicago auto accident reports?
You can get the records you need when seeking copies of your accident reports in Chicago. That can be useful for those seriously injured, as transportation may be difficult. Fortunately, those seeking an accident report have some freedom in this regard.
To request Chicago accident reports, visit the Chicago Police Department Records Customer Service Section. This office is open Monday through Friday and allows visitors to retrieve their traffic crash reports in person. This option may be easier for those less familiar with navigating the internet.
How can I avoid waiting for a Chicago accident report?
Your Chicago police accident report does not require you to go to the police station. You can avoid leaving your home at all. Chicago offers online services to order your accident report to help prevent a visit and long wait in line.
If you want to retrieve your report online, the Chicago Police website offers a portal to purchase your report. Each report has a $6 fee, which must be paid before receiving your original traffic crash report. This allows you to get your accident report whenever you are ready, no matter the time of day.
How will my lawyer use the police report?
When you have been injured in a Chicago auto accident, your accident report can be a powerful tool for your recovery. This report can inform you about the crash scene and the evidence you need in the courtroom. However, you may need help using this information to best aid your lawsuit.
Following a car accident, Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates is ready to help your claim succeed. We know how useful Chicago car accident reports can be and how to help you get that information as speedily and efficiently as possible. To learn more about what we can do for your lawsuit, call (800) 985-1819 or fill out our online contact form.
