The Guide to Filing a Car Accident Police Report
If you have been involved in a car accident, it is imperative to file a police report. Police reports serve as evidence to prove liability in an accident, mostly for insurance purposes.
Contacting the authorities fulfills your duty of following the law and protecting your own interests, should a lawsuit ensue.
Have you been involved in an accident? Call a Pride Legal Auto Accident Attorney today!
Should I Always File a Police Report After an Accident?
Regardless of the level of damage or injury, it is imperative to file a police report after a car accident. Oftentimes, injuries and damages are discovered days after the accident occurred.
Additionally, the other driver involved in the accident can react in an unexpected manner. He or she may be hostile, so it is important to have police presence after an accident. Police often act as third-party mediators after accidents, gathering details of the incident from all parties involved. You should not leave the scene of the incident until the police report is completed.
Police reports also often serve as evidence when seeking compensation from the negligent driver. When filing a car accident lawsuit, having a police report can strengthen your chances of getting a high settlement. It is crucial to file a police report after a car accident.
Have you been involved in an accident? Call a Pride Legal Auto Accident Attorney today!
Does filing a police report automatically make an insurance claim?
Filing a police report does not automatically make an insurance claim. A police report can be used as evidence in an insurance claim, but it does not automatically file an insurance claim.
In order to file an insurance claim, you must contact your state barHowever, drivers involved in car accidents oftentimes choose to handle cases without going through their insurance companies.
A police report will provide your insurance company with an accurate crash report. This will be essential in protecting you from legal issues and maximizing the settlement of your case.
Have you been involved in an accident? Call a Pride Legal Auto Accident Attorney today!
What takes place in a car accident police report?
The police will begin by examining your physical or mental capacity after the accident. Car accidents can leave victims in a state of shock, unable to perform normal functions immediately after the incident.
After ensuring all victims are in a healthy state, the police will begin questioning all drivers involved. They will then note basic information such as the vehicle type and the damages. Then, emergency services will be called if necessary. If no emergency services are needed, the officer will distribute violation or negligent tickets if necessary. The officer will then write a report, which can be used later in court or to file your insurance claim.
Individuals involved in car accidents often notice their injuries in the days following the crash. If you do not have sufficient evidence of the accident’s circumstances, it may be difficult to receive insurance coverage for your medical expenses.
Have you been involved in an accident? Call a Pride Legal Auto Accident Attorney today!
What if the police don’t come?
In some instances, a police officer will not be available to attend the scene of the incident. This may be for any of the following reasons:
- The accident is not serious
- No injuries occurred
- A public emergency is taking place in your area, and all officers are on call
In order to ensure the police show up, it is essential to describe the accident as accurately possible. Report the injuries, vehicular damages, and circumstances leading up to the incident to the 911 dispatcher.
If The Cops Don’t Show Up
Oftentimes, police are preoccupied and unable to attend the scene of the crash. In this situation, you must take the situation into your own hands.
1. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you may not feel pain after immediately your injury, you should consult a doctor immediately. If left untreated, your injuries can severely worsen and harm you further. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan to ensure you have a steady recovery.
2. Do Not Admit Guilt or Liability
Even a simple “I’m so sorry” can prove your liability in a car accident. Be courteous and polite, but do not admit you are at fault for the incident.
3. Take Photos
It is imperative to take clear photos of your injuries, the scene of the incident, and any other clues that may strengthen your case.
4. Obtain Information
Gathering as much information as you can is crucial. Collect all insurance information, license plate numbers, driver’s license numbers, and phone numbers from all parties involved in the accident.
5. Gather Witnesses
Eyewitness testimonies are often the most crucial evidence in pedestrian accident settlements. With a third-party testimony, your case may be strengthened. Gather contact information from all eyewitnesses of the incident. If available, gather surveillance footage as well.
6. Request a Police Report
After the police show up, request a police report to be completed. This will serve as strong evidence to prove correct liability in court.
7. Keep a Journal
Write down all the information you can remember from the incident. In the time following the incident, keep a record of your pain, discomfort, and overall health. This can be used as evidence to strengthen your case.
8. Consult an Attorney
Due to the complexity of California’s personal injury laws, hiring an experienced, LGBT-friendly Pride Legal LGBT Auto Accident Attorney is crucial. Your LGBT Auto Accident Lawyer will reach the maximum compensation for your injuries and get you on the road to recovery.
Contact Pride Legal
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, we invite you to contact us at Pride Legal for legal counseling or any further questions. To protect your rights, hire someone who understands them.
