Did you get hurt in a Springfield, Illinois, automobile crash or another accident caused by someone’s negligence? For insurance purposes, you may need your police report. This article explains exactly what to do to get this documentation.
How to Obtain a Springfield Traffic Crash Report
You can purchase copies of an accident report traffic crash report) through the Springfield Police Department in one of three ways: in person, by mail, or online.
In Person
To obtain your accident report in person, visit the Springfield Police Department’s Records Division, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4:30 pm at 800 East Monroe Street, 5th Floor, Springfield, Illinois 62701.
Before visiting the Police Department, compile all relevant information. This may include the crash report number (often included in the driver exchange sheet obtained at the time of the accident), the date and location of the accident, and names and contact information for all involved. There is a $5 fee. This can be paid in cash or by check payable to the Springfield Police Department.
By Mail
You can mail your request to the Springfield Police Department at:
Springfield Police Department Records Section
800 E. Monroe Street
Springfield, IL 62701
In the correspondence, you must include the following:
- Stamped, self-addressed envelope
- Crash report number
- Name and contact phone number
- If you do not have the crash report number, include as much information as possible, like the date, location of the crash, and name of the driver
- $5.00 check made payable to the Springfield Police Department
Online
You can retrieve Springfield accident reports by visiting this website. At the site, select the state where the accident occurred (Illinois) and the relevant agency (Springfield Police Department). Next, fill in the last name of the involved party and their date of birth, the date of the accident, and the report number (also known as the Local Code). The driver exchange information sheet you received at the accident scene will contain the report number.
Once you purchase the report online, it is available to download in PDF format. You will also receive an email with a purchase receipt and the link to download the accident report.
Obtaining Other Springfield Police Reports
To request a copy of a Springfield police report, you must file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request in writing, online, or in person. The Springfield City Clerk’s Office handles FOIA requests.
Written Requests
You can submit written requests to:
City Clerk, Room 106
Municipal Center West
Springfield, IL 62701
You can fax written requests to (217) 789-2144.
Online Requests
Submitting a Springfield FOIA request online is convenient and may be more expedient than other forms of submission. To submit a FOIA request online, you must enter your name, address, contact information and a description of your request. When drafting your request, be as specific as possible to make your search efficient.
In-Person Requests
To handle the request in person, visit the Office of the City Clerk in Room 106, Municipal Center West, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4:30 pm.
What Information Should be Included in Your FOIA Request?
The City of Springfield provides a convenient FOIA request form which, when completed thoroughly, will satisfy the requirements for a proper FOIA request. However, if you choose to forgo the form and draft your letter, provide this information:
- Name, address, telephone number, and email address;
- Description of the records sought. Be as specific as possible, including the agency responsible for maintaining the records;
- Whether the request is to inspect records, obtain copies, or both.
What Will It Cost?
The first 50 pages are free. Any additional page will cost $.15 per page. There is no cost if the response is submitted electronically via email, CD, or flash drive.
How Long Will It Take?
Generally, records are available within five business days from the date of the request. If you have specific questions about your FOIA request, contact the Springfield City Clerk’s office at (217) 789-2216 or email cityclerk@cwlp.com.
Obtaining Criminal History Records
If you need records related to an arrest in the City of Springfield, follow the FOIA procedures outlined above. If you need a complete copy of criminal records in Illinois, direct your request through the Illinois State Police (ISP). An entire criminal history, referred to as a “Statewide Criminal History Transcript,” will identify all arrests and convictions in Illinois.
Fees begin around $15. For additional information, call (815) 740-5160 or visit the ISP Bureau of Information at 260 North Chicago Street, Joliet, Illinois, 60432, Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4 pm.
If you or a loved one got hurt in an accident or need assistance obtaining a police report, accident report, or criminal record, contact the attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation.
