Should I Call 911 After a Car Accident?

 Posted on November 21, 2025 in Car Accidents

In the aftermath of a car crash, you might be overwhelmed at how to respond, especially when you come face-to-face with the other driver, who may be just as panicked or upset. You may fear that contacting the authorities will only escalate the situation, but there are multiple compelling reasons to call 911 after a crash.  

At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., our Northbrook, IL personal injury lawyers can advise you of what to do after a car crash. Our firm can help you document interactions with the police to strengthen your case for a car accident claim, fighting for full compensation on your behalf.

Reporting a Car Accident to the Police

It is understandable not to want to involve the police in what seems like a minor accident, but you should also know that calling the police does not necessarily mean getting somebody in trouble with the law. When an officer responds to a car accident, he or she will write an official accident report with details about the collision, including the responsible party. This official report can serve as valuable evidence for your claim, as it may indicate that the other driver was at fault.

A skilled car accident lawyer can get a copy of the official report and submit it as part of your claim. When combined with other evidence like photos, video footage, and crash reconstruction analysis, a police report can greatly strengthen your case for compensation.

Getting Medical Treatment for an Accident

After a car crash, your first priority should be to secure your own safety. If you or anybody else inside the vehicle is left with serious injuries, you should call for an ambulance to make sure that your injuries are treated.

Some people may be hesitant to call an ambulance after a crash due to the costs. However, a successful personal injury claim can also compensate you for your medical expenses, including the costs of a trip to the emergency room (735 ILCS 5/2-1115.2). Seeking prompt medical treatment after an accident (whether in an ambulance or not) can also establish a link between the crash and your injuries.

Calling 911 After a Hit-and-Run

A hit-and-run is the worst-case scenario for any responsible driver. If a negligent driver strikes your car and attempts to leave the scene, call 911 immediately. Be sure to give as many identifying details about the other driver as possible, including the vehicle’s license plate number, make and model, and color.

If the police are successful in apprehending the other driver, you can file a claim through his or her insurance as you would in any other car accident. With the help of an attorney, you may even be able to seek punitive damages for the other driver’s gross negligence. Even if the other driver cannot be identified, obtaining an official police report can strengthen your case for an uninsured motorist claim through your own policy, showing that you took action as soon as possible.

Contact a North Shore, IL Personal Injury Attorney

Oftentimes, calling 911 shortly after an accident is the best thing you can do, both for major and minor collisions. If you need help getting compensation after a crash, reach out to our Northbrook, IL car accident lawyers at Gruzmark Law, Ltd.. We are open for free consultations at 847-729-7660.