After being involved in a collision, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure about the next steps. Understanding how to properly document the incident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages.
Reporting an Aurora car accident to the police creates an official record that may prove invaluable if you need to pursue compensation. An experienced auto crash attorney could guide you through this process while protecting your rights.
When State Law Requires Police Reports
Under Illinois law, you must report certain vehicle crashes to law enforcement immediately. This requirement applies when a collision results in death, bodily injury, or property damage exceeding $1,500 (or $500 if any vehicle involved is uninsured). After contacting authorities, you should receive an official document containing details about the incident.
The responding officers will gather information including driver identification, vehicle details, witness statements, and preliminary assessments of fault. These official Aurora collision police reports provide a neutral third-party account that insurance companies and legal representatives rely on during claims processing.
Remember that even if your crash seems minor, hidden vehicle damage or delayed-onset injuries might emerge later. Without formal documentation from law enforcement, you might face challenges when seeking compensation for these unexpected consequences, whether for a minor injury or a severe case leading to wrongful death.
How to File Your Police Report Properly
When involved in an Aurora traffic incident requiring police documentation, you should remain at the scene unless you need immediate medical attention. You should contact the police as soon as possible by calling 911 for emergencies or their non-emergency number for less severe situations.
While waiting for officers to arrive, you should:
- Ensure everyone’s safety by moving to a secure location away from traffic
- Exchange contact and insurance information with other involved parties
- Photograph the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries
- Collect contact information from witnesses
- Note road conditions, weather, and any unusual circumstances
When speaking with police, you should provide accurate information without speculating about fault. The law enforcement’s documentation should include all relevant details, but you should request a copy of the report number before leaving the scene. This reference helps when following up or providing information to a personal injury attorney.
Within 10 days of the incident, you must also file a report with the Illinois Department of Transportation if the crash resulted in death, injury, or property damage over $1,500. Failing to meet these reporting requirements could result in license suspension or other penalties.
Potential Complications with Police Reports
Even when properly filed, Aurora vehicle collision police documentation might contain errors that could affect your claim. Common issues include incorrect details about the crash sequence, inaccurate driver information, or incomplete witness statements.
If you discover inaccuracies, you should contact the Aurora Police Department promptly to request an amendment. The department may allow supplemental information to be added, though they rarely change the original report entirely.
Insurance companies often use these reports to determine who is responsible, so addressing errors quickly is essential. The Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd., with over 40 years of experience handling auto collision cases, understands how insurance companies evaluate these documents, as our attorneys have previously worked for insurance companies themselves.
Learn More About the Importance of Reporting an Aurora Car Accident to the Police
Following a collision, proper documentation can significantly affect your ability to secure fair compensation. Reporting an Aurora car accident to the police establishes an official record that supports your claim and protects your legal rights.
With extensive experience handling various cases, our team can help you navigate the reporting process and subsequent claim procedures. Contact our office for a consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we might assist with your case.