There are various reasons why some drivers may not want to report a vehicle accident. Most often, this is because the parties involved decided amongst themselves that the incident was not that serious. Often, in the initial aftermath of the crash, it is difficult to determine whether or not there are any injuries or if there has been any property damage.
Some injuries are “hidden” and may not appear until the hours or days following a crash. Additionally, it is not uncommon for vehicle damage to occur and not be noticed until well after the incident. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to go back and claim injuries or property damage if there has been no police report or if the incident was never reported to the Illinois DOT.
Additionally, it is not uncommon for an uninsured driver to try to convince other parties at the scene that the police do not need to be called and a report does not need to be made. Driving without insurance in Illinois is illegal, and drivers in these situations are often seeking to avoid legal trouble at the expense of any other party at the scene that may have sustained an injury or property damage.
In Illinois, drivers must carry and maintain the following types of auto insurance:
- Bodily injury liability coverage: Minimum $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
- Property damage liability coverage: Minimum $20,000
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage: Minimum $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident
Regardless of what other drivers tell you at the scene of a crash, you should pick up your phone and call the police so they can come to the location and conduct an investigation. If you have any trouble with other people at the scene of the crash, let the dispatcher know, get back in your vehicle, and lock the door. Wait for the police to arrive. If another driver tries to flee the scene, do not try to chase them. They will have committed a hit and run offense at that point, and this will become a police matter.