Fillable Illinois Motorist Report Template in PDF

What is the Illinois Motorist Report form?

The Illinois Motorist Report form is a document that drivers involved in a vehicle accident must complete and submit to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). It is used to report crashes that result in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500, or $500 if certain conditions apply. The report must be submitted within 10 days of the accident.

When should I report a crash?

If you are involved in an accident that causes injury or death, or if the property damage exceeds the specified amounts, you must report the crash. This report should be sent to IDOT as soon as possible, but no later than 10 days after the incident.

Where do I report a crash?

If no police officer arrives at the scene, you must notify the local police department or the nearest county sheriff's office. This notification should be made using the fastest available means of communication.

How do I complete the Motorist Report form?

To fill out the Motorist Report form, use black ink and print legibly. Complete all required fields accurately. If you cannot answer a question, write “NK” for “not known.” Make sure to include proof of insurance information, as failing to do so may lead to assumptions of lacking coverage.

What information should I include in the report?

Provide detailed information about injuries, vehicle repair estimates, and damage to property other than vehicles. If more space is needed, use an additional sheet or a second report form. Don't forget to complete the diagram and narrative sections on the back of the form.

What happens if I provide false information?

Providing false information on the Motorist Report is a class C misdemeanor. This can result in a $500 fine and a potential 30-day jail sentence.

How do I submit the Motorist Report form?

After completing the form, make a copy for your records. Mail the original to the Illinois Department of Transportation, Crash Records Section, at 1340 North 9th Street, Springfield, Illinois 62766-0001.

What if I lost the form or it was not provided?

If you did not receive a form or lost it, contact the investigating agency to obtain the bar code number from the original Police Report. Then, call IDOT at (217) 782-2575 to request a blank Motorist Report form. Enter the bar code number in the designated area on the blank form before completing it.

Can I obtain a copy of the crash report?

IDOT cannot provide copies of crash reports or personal information related to a crash. However, the investigating agency may provide copies for a fee not exceeding $5. For questions about crash reporting, contact IDOT at (217) 782-2575 or email DOT.CRASHFORMS@illinois.gov.

Filling out the Illinois Motorist Report form is an essential step for drivers involved in an accident. Understanding the key aspects of this process can help ensure compliance with state laws and facilitate proper documentation. Here are some important takeaways:

• Timely Reporting: Illinois law requires drivers to report accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,500 (or $500 under specific conditions) within 10 days.
• Notification: If no police officer is present at the scene, drivers must notify the local police department or the nearest sheriff's office as quickly as possible.
• Two Forms: There are two main forms used for crash reporting: the Police Report and the Motorist Report. The police complete most of the Police Report, which helps streamline the process.
• Completing the Motorist Report: Motorists should use black ink and print legibly. All required fields must be filled out accurately. If unsure about an answer, mark “NK” for “not known.”
• Insurance Information: It is crucial to provide complete information regarding proof of insurance. Failure to do so may lead to assumptions of lacking insurance, invoking the Safety Responsibility Law.
• Detailing Injuries and Damages: The form requires clear descriptions of injuries, repair costs, and any damage to property beyond vehicles. Estimates from professionals are preferred.
• Additional Information: If there isn’t enough space on the form, use a second report form or a separate sheet of paper to include details about other vehicles, injuries, witnesses, or relevant information.
• False Information Consequences: Providing false information on the form is a serious offense, classified as a class C misdemeanor, which may lead to fines and possible imprisonment.
• Submission Process: After completing the form, keep a copy for personal records and mail the original to the Illinois Department of Transportation at the specified address.

By following these guidelines, motorists can effectively navigate the reporting process and fulfill their legal obligations following a crash.

1. Neglecting to report within the required timeframe. Illinois law mandates that the Motorist Report must be submitted within 10 days of the accident. Delaying this can lead to complications.

2. Failing to complete all required fields. Every section of the form must be filled out accurately. Leaving blanks can lead to assumptions about your insurance status.

3. Using an incorrect ink color. The form must be filled out in black ink. Using other colors may render the form illegible or invalid.

4. Not providing clear estimates of damages. When estimating repair costs or damage to property, provide as much detail as possible. Vague descriptions can lead to misunderstandings.

5. Overlooking the diagram and narrative section. Completing the diagram and narrative on the back of the form is crucial. This section provides context to the accident that might not be captured in the other fields.

6. Ignoring the requirement for insurance information. All fields related to proof of insurance must be completed. Failing to do so may result in penalties under the Safety Responsibility Law.

7. Not keeping a copy for personal records. After submitting the report, it's important to make a copy for your own records. This ensures you have documentation in case of future inquiries.