Interstate 80 FAQ’s

The process depends on the state and the law enforcement agency that responded to the crash. Most states provide crash reports through:

• State Police/Highway Patrol portals
• Local police department websites
• In-person or mailed requests

Visit our state-specific pages for direct links. You’ll usually need the date, location, driver name(s), and sometimes the report number.

1. Move to safety, if possible.
2. Call 911 to report the crash.
3. Exchange information with the other driver(s).
4. Document the scene with photos and notes.
5. Seek medical attention, even if you feel okay.
6. Request a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available.

In most I-80 states, yes, especially if:

• Someone is injured
• A vehicle is towed
• There’s property damage above $500–$1,000
  Even minor crashes should be reported to create a legal record for insurance and liability purposes.

In some states, only involved parties (drivers, passengers, insurance reps, or attorneys) can request reports. Other states allow anyone with the proper information to request a copy. Always check the agency’s requirements — some will ask for a notarized form or proof of interest.

You may not always need a personal injury attorney after an accident, but there are key situations where legal representation is wise. If you’ve been seriously injured, the complexities of medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages can be overwhelming, making legal assistance crucial. In accidents involving large trucks or out-of-state drivers, an attorney familiar with the relevant laws can protect your interests.

If there’s a dispute over fault, or if insurance companies are stalling or underpaying, a lawyer can help present your case and negotiate for a fair settlement. Additionally, if you’ve lost wages or face ongoing medical expenses, an attorney can assist in calculating your economic losses and pursuing compensation.

Most personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. This makes seeking legal help more accessible. Considering these factors can help you decide whether to hire a personal injury attorney after an accident.

Most reports are available within 7 to 15 business days, depending on the state and agency. Delays may occur if:

• The crash involved injuries or fatalities
• Multiple vehicles or commercial trucks were involved
• The report requires investigation or supervisor review

You can often check the status online or by contacting the police department or highway patrol that responded.

If you believe your report is incorrect, the following steps would be to contact the reporting officer or agency directly and, through their system, submit written documentation or evidence to support your correction, although some states allow you to file a supplemental statement.

While not all changes can be made, factual errors (like wrong vehicle info or driver names) can usually be updated.

Truck accidents can be more complex than typical crashes because they may involve:

• Out-of-state companies
• Federal transportation regulations
• Multiple parties (driver, carrier, shipping company)

You should request a crash report right away and strongly consider consulting an attorney with experience in truck accident law. These cases often involve more severe injuries and larger insurance policies.

Yes. Even if you don’t live in the state where the crash happened, you can still request a report from that state’s:

• State police/highway patrol
• City or county law enforcement agency

Be sure to follow the specific state’s procedures. Some require ID, notarized forms, or mailed requests. Our state pages provide links for each I-80 jurisdiction.

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, it is important to report the incident to law enforcement immediately. If the other driver has fled the scene, follow these steps:

• Gather as many details as possible, including the license plate number, vehicle color, and direction of travel.
• Speak with witnesses or other drivers present at the scene to collect additional information.
• File a comprehensive police report and request a copy for your records.

Even if the driver is not identified, you may still have options through your uninsured motorist coverage or by pursuing a personal injury claim.

Even if you didn’t report the accident immediately, you should:

• File a delayed crash report (if allowed by your state)
• Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or state police to ask about late reporting requirements
• Inform your insurance company right away

Note: In many states, failure to report an accident — especially one with injuries or significant damage — could lead to fines or license issues.

You should file an insurance claim in the following situations:

• Your Vehicle Was Damaged: If your car has any damage from an accident, it’s essential to file a claim to cover repair costs, even for minor issues.
• Anyone (Including Passengers) Was Injured: If you or any passengers were injured, filing a claim can help cover medical expenses and other related costs.
• Another Driver Is Threatening Legal Action: If the other driver involved is threatening to sue you, a claim can protect you and provide legal support.
• The Crash Involved a Company Vehicle, Commercial Truck, or Rideshare: Accidents with commercial vehicles can complicate liability, making it important to file a claim for proper coverage.
• You Were Struck by a Driver Who Left the Scene: In hit-and-run cases, filing a claim can help you navigate uninsured motorist coverage and secure compensation.
• Promptly reporting these incidents to your insurance is crucial for your protection and to access potential support.

Even if the damage seems minor, it’s often better to file early and let your insurer determine the next steps, especially in case of hidden damage or delayed injury symptoms.

At I80Accidents.com, we’re committed to helping drivers navigate the aftermath of a crash with confidence and clarity. Whether your accident occurred in California, Ohio, Pennsylvania, or anywhere in between, knowing what to do next — and how to do it — can make a major difference in your recovery.

We’ve built this resource to answer your most pressing questions about police reports, insurance, fault, and legal options across every state that I-80 travels through. If you need help finding your report, connecting with a lawyer, or understanding your rights, we’re here to guide you.

Stay safe, stay informed — and remember, I80Accidents.com is with you every mile of the way.