How Long Do You Have to Report an Accident?

Vehicle crashes are scary, confusing, unforeseen events. If you get into an accident, what should you do in the aftermath?

Illinois has strict accident reporting requirements that you need to follow. Make sure you report any accident to the proper authorities as soon as possible in order to avoid penalties. Additionally, if you were injured in the crash as a driver, passenger, motorcyclist, bicyclist, or pedestrian, consider finding an experienced car accident attorney who can answer your questions and guide you through the steps of filing a lawsuit.

Car Crash Reporting Requirements in Illinois

According to Illinois state law, you must report vehicle accidents to the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT) within 10 days of the incident if any of the following occurred:

• Injury or death
• Property damage more than $1,500 if all drivers were insured
• Property damage more than $500 if any of the involved drivers were uninsured

Unfortunately, at the scene of the accident, it’s sometimes difficult to tell how much property damage occurred or if someone has been injured. For example, some injuries like whiplash can take days, weeks, or even months to show up after an accident. Therefore, since you can’t know for sure whether an injury has occurred, it’s in your best interest to report any crash to the Illinois DOT. This report can be filed by the victim, the vehicle owner, the insurance agency, or a legal representative.

Additionally, in the state of Illinois, you should also notify local law enforcement about the crash as soon as possible—ideally by phone from the scene of the accident, if possible. The police will conduct their own investigation and create a police report. However, even though law enforcement will submit their own report, you still are required to report the accident to the DOT within that 10-day deadline.

Auto Accident Lawsuit Filing Deadlines in Illinois

If you sustained injuries in a car crash, you have a certain timeframe in which you can file a lawsuit. This deadline is referred to as the statute of limitations.

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits (including motor vehicle accidents) is generally two years from the date of the accident. While there are a few rare exceptions, most courts will have no option other than to dismiss your case if you try to file a lawsuit after the statute of limitations has expired.

To get further clarification on how to file an auto accident lawsuit in Illinois, get in touch with a personal injury lawyer.

Contact the Experienced Chicago Motor Vehicle Accident Attorneys at Vasilatos Injury Law

If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, contact the experienced motor vehicle accident attorneys at Vasilatos Injury Law. We have represented hundreds of personal injury clients and obtained millions of dollars in awards for our clients in Chicago and across Illinois.

Our attorneys have a wide range of experience in Illinois car crashes, and we are dedicated to helping our clients get the best possible compensation. Regardless of the nature of your case, you can rely on us to guide you toward a favorable outcome for you and your family.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.