Guide to Evanston Police Department After an Accident
February 13, 2026
If you were involved in a severe motor vehicle crash, you will likely have to work with the Evanston Police Department at some point. This guide will help accident victims navigate the system until they are able to consult with a personal injury lawyer for more specific advice.
How to Reach the Evanston Police Department
Dial 911 in an emergency, like if you were injured in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident. Otherwise, you can reach the Police Service Desk by calling (847) 866-5000.
How to Get to the Evanston Police Department
The Evanston Police Department is located on 1454 Elmwood Avenue. It is directly adjacent to the Evanston Fire Department, which is at the intersection of Elmwood and Lake Street.
The main entrance to the Police Department is on Elmwood Avenue. You may be able to park on the street, or you can pull into the driveway immediately next to the station and use the parking lot behind it.
Reporting a Car Accident to the Police
Calling 911 from the scene of the accident is not the same thing as filing a report. Once the police arrive, you will still be expected to answer their questions about the crash unless you are seriously injured and require hospitalization. If that is the case, state law says you may wait until you are discharged to file your report, at which point you have half an hour to get from the hospital to a police station near where the accident occurred.
What to Say When Reporting Your Accident
When making your report, you will want to be as clear and succinct as possible. Do not conceal information, but do not provide information the officer does not ask for. Avoid guesses or speculation: if you do not know an answer, it is okay to say so or to ask for clarification.
How to Request an Accident Report From the Evanston Police Department
All police report requests must be submitted to the City of Evanston. You may do this online at the city’s FOIA page, by mailing your request to the station, or by making your request in person at 1454 Elmwood Avenue on any weekday from 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM. Unless you have a subpoena, you must pay a $5 fee to receive a physical or digital copy.
Be prepared to provide information about yourself and the accident, including the police report number, if you have it.
Our Attorney Can Work With Local Law Enforcement on Your Case
If you are one of the many people who are injured in car accidents in our city every year, you likely have questions about the role the Evanston Police Department will play in your personal injury case. Call The Rooth Law Firm today. We can help you request a copy of your accident report and use it as evidence in your claim or lawsuit.
ILLINOIS PERSONAL INJURY LAWYER
CALL US NOW 847-869-9100