Why Is It Important to File a Police Report After a Car Accident?

 Posted on October 23, 2025 in Car Accident

The details of a car accident are an important part of a personal injury claim. That is why filing a police report is a crucial step, both legally and financially. Reporting the accident ensures there is an official record of what happened. You will use that when you file an accident claim to request compensation for your losses. If you suffered an injury or property damage in a car accident, we can help. Our experienced Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyers will gather the evidence you need, including your police report.

Do You Have To File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Illinois?

Under 625 ILCS 5/11-408, Illinois law requires you to report an accident to the police if it causes injury, death, or property damage valued at over $1,500. If officers do not come to the scene, you still need to file a written report with the Illinois Department of Transportation within 10 days. Failing to report can lead to penalties or license suspension. Submitting an accurate report ensures your version of events is recorded and can protect you if there are disputes later.

How Can a Police Report Help Your Injury Claim?

Even when the crash seems minor, a police report provides an official record that includes important details, such as the location and time of the accident, and the names of all drivers involved. It serves as a neutral record of what happened and can accomplish the following:

• Identifies all witnesses and passengers who can confirm what they saw

• Contains diagrams or photos showing vehicle positions and damage

• Notes traffic signals, lighting, weather, and road conditions at the time of the crash

• Documents each driver’s statements before memories fade or stories change

• Records whether anyone received a citation or was suspected of being impaired

• Confirms when emergency responders arrived and what actions they took

• Includes the officer’s observations about vehicle speed, debris, or skid marks

• Provides the officer’s opinion about who caused the crash, which can influence insurance decisions

Having this report can make your injury claim stronger by drawing a connection between the crash and your injuries. It can also protect you if the other driver later changes their story. Your attorney can use it to negotiate with insurance adjusters or to present strong evidence in court if your claim needs to be litigated.

Can You Still File a Claim for Damages if You Did Not File a Police Report?

You can file a claim for damages without a police report, but it might be more challenging. Without one, you must rely on other proof like photos, medical records, or witness statements. Insurance companies are more likely to question your claim or deny liability without an official record of what happened.

If you missed filing a report right away, you should still contact the police or the Illinois Department of Transportation as soon as possible. An attorney can guide you through filing the report and gathering the evidence you need to support your injury claim. Acting quickly can improve your chances of recovering compensation for your losses.

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Car Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation

Having legal representation ensures the police report and other evidence are used effectively to build your case. The attorneys at Newland & Newland, LLP are local professionals who value their communities and the people they serve. With many decades of combined experience and millions of dollars in successful verdicts, they know how to fight for fair compensation after a serious crash.

Call 847-797-8000 today to contact our Arlington Heights, IL car accident lawyers for a free consultation. We can provide you with legal guidance in English, Spanish, and Cantonese.