How to Get an Accident Report in Chicago

If you’ve been involved in an accident in Chicago, obtaining the accident report is a vital step in supporting any insurance claims or legal actions. An accident report provides essential details about the incident, such as the time, location, and involved parties. At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., we know just how important this evidence can be when the need arises to prove fault or damages. 

Ways to Get an Accident Report

1. Request the report online through the Chicago Police Department website. 
2. Visit the Records Customer Service Section in person. 
3. Submit your request via mail to the Chicago Police Department.

Understanding how to get your report can help streamline the process significantly.

Obtaining Your Accident Report

1. Request an Accident Report Online

Requesting your accident report online is likely to be the fastest and most convenient option. You can use the Chicago Police Department’s designated crash report portal. 

Here’s how: 

• Visit the online portal at https://www.chicagopolice.org/traffic-crash-reports/. 
• Enter essential details like your accident’s date, the driver’s name, or the Report Number (RD Number) if you have it. 
• Submit a payment of $6.00. 
• Access the report on your device. 

It usually takes a few business days after the accident for the report to become available online. Note that recent reports (from 2016 onward) can be accessed online, while older reports require a mail or in-person request. 

2. Obtain an Accident Report in Person

If you prefer or need to get an accident report in person, you can visit the Chicago Police Department’s Records Customer Service Section. 

Location: 

3510 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60653 

Service Hours: 

Monday–Friday (excluding public holidays): 8 a.m.–1:30 p.m. 

You’ll pay $5.00 per report in person. Be prepared for possible wait times, depending on how busy the center is. 

3. Request an Accident Report by Mail

For those who prefer not to visit in person or require a report from prior to 2016, mail requests are also possible. 

How to send your request: 

1. Write a request including details such as your accident’s date, location, and involved drivers’ names. Include your contact information. 
2. Attach a self-addressed envelope with a stamp for the return of your report. 
3. Include a $5.00 check or money order payable to the “Department of Revenue, City of Chicago.” 
4. Mail your request to the following address:

Chicago Police Department  

Attention: Records Inquiry and Customer Service Section, Unit 163  

3510 S. Michigan Avenue  

Chicago, IL 60653  

Allow time for processing and delivery.  

The Crucial Role of an Attorney

Dealing with all the aftermath of a car accident can feel overwhelming. While obtaining an accident report is a critical step, having a legal professional on your side can make all the difference when it comes to negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing fair compensation.  

A Chicago car accident attorney can help you through:

• Case Evaluations: Attorneys can assess whether you’re eligible to seek compensation for financial losses like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.  
• Document Handling: They can help ensure all required documents, including your accident report, are filed correctly.  
• Negotiation Ability: Experienced car accident attorneys know how to navigate negotiations with insurance companies in pursuit of the best possible settlement.  

At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., we have over four decades of experience helping Chicago residents navigate the legal complexities of car accident cases. If you’ve been involved in a Chicago car accident and need legal advocacy, contact us today to schedule a free consultation.